Do i need to buy the "Wallpaper remover" spray, or can i just save a few bucks and rip it off?

Question

Do i need to buy the "Wallpaper remover" spray, or can i just save a few bucks and rip it off?

Answer 1

Depends on how the paper looks and how old it is. Some wall paper can be horrible to just tear off even with the removal spray. I would invest in it and a couple scrapers.

Answer 2

If it's vinyl, just rip it off as much as you can.  You will be left with the paper backing. Spray heavily with fabric softener and hot water, and scrape it off.

Answer 3

It depends on whether the wallpaper was sized before it was installed.  Sizing allows it to be removed easily and in large pieces.  Without sizing, you will need to invest in the spray, plus I suggest using a "paper tiger" which is a little gizmo available in the paint store.  It scores the paper and allows the spray to penetrate more readily and completely.  

I've always found the spray to be totally worth the investment.  When the paper comes off easily, you have far less drywall repairs from gouges.