Best way to remove wall paper...that has been on for YEARS?

Question

It' is wallpaper border that has been on for a VERY LONG time.

I've heard vinegar/water in a spray bottle works well. Is there a bettery way?

What is the process when using the vinegar/water or other method?

I need a step by step including small IMPORTANT details like wait time, specific tools, etc...

Answer 1

A mixture of half liquid starch (in the detergent section of the grocery store) and half very hot water applied to the wallpaper should do the job.  Also you can get these little round tools that you roll around on the wallpaper.  There are teeth on the tool that perforate the wallpaper and allow the starch/water mixture to get under the wallpaper.  The tool is available at Walmart in their paint dept and only costs a few bucks.

Answer 2

The fact it's been on for years doesn't really matter. If it's a washable paper (somewhat of a water resistant outer coating) then I  always peel off the outer layer dry. I like to use a 3" putty knife and start at the seam. I use the knife to loosen a corner then peel off the outer layer of the paper. Once this is gone, I use warm water with TSP (Tri-Sodium-Phosphate). Available in the cleaning section of your local home centre.

I use a large rag to wet the under  layer of paper and glue that's still on the wall. Let this sit for a couple of minutes and then I go back with my 3" putty knife, or a large one if you want, and the paper base comes right off. some tough spots may need another water bath.

When the paper is all off, you need another wash with TSP and water followed by a water rince to remove all glue. At this point you're ready to prep and paint or install more paper,

Have fun!

Answer 3

Fabric softener in a spray bottle.  Mix it well 50/50 to water and spray on liberally.  If its plastic coated, score it well with a wall paper tool made specifically for that (its a palm held - ball like object with blades on the bottom)

It amazes me that this seems such a well kept secret, when I watch home improvement shows and watch them labor for days I shake my head.

Answer 4

This is a nice little video clip from eHow that shows how to remove wallpaper.  You'll need sponges, wallpaper scoring tool, putty knife, wallpaper remover, a bucket, a trash bag, drop clothes and towels to protect your floor and furniture.   http://www.ehow.com/video_221_remove-wal...

We removed really old wallpaper from our house and the stuff practically fell off, but my friends said that was rare.  We did it in the dead of winter though, and the heaters really dried out the wallpaper so it came off easily for us.

Answer 5

A spray bottle and very hot water will work if sprayed enough to get the wall really wet.

Answer 6

I have heard of the vinegar and water technique. I am not sure of time frames or mixture. You can also try using steam.