Removing Wallpaper

These instructions provide a step-by-step method for removing wallpaper with a homemade vinegar solution, emphasizing preparation and application.

   I used to use DIF by Zinsser, but I found I have an allergic reaction to the solution. Hot water usually did the trick but using a mixture of white vinegar and hot water to dissolve the adhesive works very well, is inexpensive compared to store brands. The acetic acid in vinegar triggers a process called hydrolysis, which breaks down the glue molecules. 

1. Preparation:  Protect the Room: Lay down plastic tarps and secure them to baseboards with painter's tape. It is important that the baseboard finishes, hardwood floors, or carpeting not get damaged in the removal process.
Safety First: Remove electrical outlet covers and protect the outlets with tape. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from the drying effects of vinegar and the high heat of the water.
Score the Surface: Use a wallpaper scoring tool like a paper tiger perforator to create tiny holes in the paper. This is critical for vinyl or plastic-coated wallpaper to allow the solution to reach the glue underneath.

2. Mix the Solution:   Ratio: Use a 50/50 ratio of white vinegar and very hot water for most projects. For less stubborn paper, a ratio of 1/3 vinegar to 2/3 hot water may suffice.
Temperature: I use tap water as hot as possible; heat is a key factor in activating the wallpaper glue. Keeping the wallpaper wet is just as important.

3. Application and Removal:    Work in Sections: I use a bug sprayer and spray the wallcovering starting just below the ceiling or top of the paper and letting gravity carry it down the wall. Let the solution seep into the tiny holes, respraying to keep it “wet.” Focus on one area at a time (roughly 4 square feet) so the solution does not dry out before you can scrape it.

Saturate:  Apply the solution liberally using a spray bottle, bug sprayer or sponge.
Wait: Allow the solution to soak for about 15 minutes. If the paper begins to wrinkle, it is ready to be removed.
Scrape: Gently peel the paper away using a putty knife or dull taping knife, starting from the edges or middle and working in all directions. It is important to use a “dull” instrument to remove the paper as the wall underneath the paper is soft and easily damaged by being too aggressive.

4. Final Cleanup:  Remove Glue Residue: After the paper is gone, apply more vinegar solutions to any remaining sticky patches and scrub gently with a sponge.
Rinse and Dry: Wipe the walls down with clean, warm water and allow them to dry completely before any subsequent patching or priming.