Removing a wallpaper border can be a transformative step in redecorating a room. Here are comprehensive steps to ensure effective removal :
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Area Preparation: Begin by safeguarding your space. Shift any furniture or appliances to create ample working room. Lay down drop cloths to protect your floors and use painter's tape to shield adjacent surfaces from moisture or damage.
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Steam Application: Employing a wallpaper steamer is an effective method. Fill the steamer with water as per instructions and allow it to heat up. Once ready, apply the steam evenly across the wallpaper border. The steam penetrates through the layers, loosening the adhesive beneath.
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Peeling the Border: Start at a corner or seam where the wallpaper border seems to lift. Gently pull the border away. If the steaming has been effective, the paper should come off in larger sections. For stubborn areas, a putty knife can be gently used to lift the edges.
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Cleanup: After removal, clean the exposed wall. Remove any residual adhesive with a sponge and a mixture of warm water and a mild detergent. Wipe down the wall thoroughly and let it dry before any further decoration.
Simplest Wallpaper Border Removal Technique
Begin the wallpaper border removal process by dampening a small section of the border with hot water. Carefully initiate the peel-off from an edge or corner, utilizing your fingernail for precision. If the wallpaper border yields easily and starts to peel, proceed by gently detaching the wallpaper. Employ a putty knife for additional support in dislodging the paper, especially in more resistant areas.
Tackling Two-Decade-Old Wallpaper
Removing wallpaper that has been in place for 20 years can be more challenging, due to the stronger adhesion over time. It often requires more robust methods like steaming or applying a wallpaper removal solution to break down the adhesive's grip. Patience and careful scraping may be necessary to avoid damaging the underlying wall surface.
Concealing Wallpaper Borders Pre-Painting
When preparing to paint over existing wallpaper, first ensure that all loose or peeling sections of the border are meticulously trimmed away using a razor knife. Follow this by applying spackle to even out any imperfections. Sanding the area smooth and applying a primer sets a suitable foundation for painting. Be mindful that applying wet paint directly on wallpaper borders can lead to the adhesive underneath becoming moist, causing the paper to pucker or bubble.
Cost Implications of Wallpaper Border Removal
The expense of professionally removing wallpaper borders generally falls between $1 to $4 per square foot, encompassing labor, materials, and necessary equipment. However, this cost can vary based on the scope and complexity of the task, including factors like the type of wallpaper, the condition of the walls, and the total area to be cleared.
In summary, the ease and cost of wallpaper border removal depend on factors like the wallpaper's age, type, and the wall's condition. Whether opting for a DIY approach or professional help, understanding these aspects helps in effectively planning and executing wallpaper removal projects.