How to Remove Lining Paper: A Step-by-Step Guide for Easy Wallpaper Removal

If you have been eyeing your walls lately, feeling that itch for a change? That lining paper from yesteryear isn’t quite cutting it anymore, or maybe you’re just craving a new vibe for your space. 

If you’re geared up to bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, I’m here to guide you through it. 

Let’s take a look into the nitty-gritty of stripping away that old lining paper, paving the way for a fabulous revamp of your beloved space. Ready? Let’s get to it!

How to Remove Lining Paper

Removing the lining paper is an easy task. But if you haven’t ever done this, I want you to be fully prepared. So, we are breaking it down into 5 steps so you can effortlessly peel off the lining paper with your wall in perfect condition. 

Step 1: Prep Your Space

First things first, let’s prep. Clear the room as much as possible and lay down some dust sheets – trust me, it can get messy. And remember to turn off the electricity if you’re working around sockets.

Grab a pair of clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and get your tools ready.

Step 2: Scoring the Paper

Grab your scoring tool or a wallpaper perforator, and here’s where a bit of finesse comes in handy. You’ll want to score the lining paper in a crisscross pattern gently. 

This isn’t just random doodling; these scores are essential as they create tiny openings that let the steam or stripping solution seep through, getting right down to the nitty-gritty – that stubborn adhesive clinging to your walls. But remember, it’s a delicate dance: apply enough pressure to pierce the paper, but not so much that you harm the plaster underneath. 

Think of it like tenderizing a steak without going all the way through – you’re aiming for just the right touch to make the rest of the job a breeze. This step is the secret sauce that makes the whole process smoother, ensuring your walls are prepped and ready for their stunning makeover.

Step 3: Apply a Stripping Solution or Steam

You have two choices: a wallpaper stripping solution or a steam stripper. If you’re going the solution route, mix it up according to the instructions and apply it with a sponge. For steam stripping, fill your steamer with water, wait for it to heat up, and then hold it against the paper in sections.

One of my all-time favourite hacks is to use a steam vacuum cleaner. If you or a friend has a steam vacuum, this will be the perfect time to use it. It will be much more time-efficient than using a small hand-held steamer. 

Step 4: Peeling Time

Once the paper’s soaked or steamed, it’s time to start peeling. Use a scraper to lift the paper off gently. Start at the seams or any loose edges. Remember, patience is key here – don’t force it!

Step 5: Clean the Walls

After all the paper is off, you’ll likely have some residue left. Give the walls a good wash with soapy water and a sponge to remove any leftover adhesive.

Also Read : Lining Paper Grades

Tips for Success

When peeling off lining paper, there are a few common mistakes that people often make, which can make the job harder than it needs to be or potentially damage the walls:

1. Not Scoring the Paper Properly: One of the key steps in removing lining paper is scoring it to allow steam or a stripping solution to penetrate. If this is done or is done appropriately, the paper will absorb the moisture effectively, making it much easier to remove.

2. Being Impatient: It’s tempting to start peeling off the paper as soon as you apply the steam or solution, but not giving it enough time to work can result in tougher removal and more residue left on the walls.

3. Overwetting the Walls: Applying too much steam or solution can saturate and potentially damage the plaster underneath. This is especially true in older homes with a more fragile plaster.

4. Forcing the Paper Off: Using too much force or a very sharp scraper can gouge or damage the wall underneath, especially if the paper is stubborn. Gentle and steady wins the race here.

5. Ignoring Safety Precautions: Not taking basic safety steps like turning off electricity when working around sockets or not protecting the floor and furniture can lead to accidents or additional cleanup.

6. Leaving Residue Behind: Sometimes, in the eagerness to finish the job, people forget to clean off the adhesive residue left behind thoroughly. This can create problems when repainting or re-wallpapering.

7. Not Repairing Damages to the Wall: If any damages or holes are left after the paper removal, it’s important to patch and sand these areas before applying new wallpaper or paint.

Avoiding these common pitfalls can make the process of removing lining paper smoother and more effective, leaving you with a better surface for your next decorating project.

FAQs

Can I paint over the lining paper instead of removing it?  

Sure, you can paint over it, but only if it’s in good condition and properly adhered to the wall.

How do I know if I should use a stripping solution or a steam stripper? 

Steam strippers work great for thick or painted-over paper, while a solution might be better for thinner paper. It can also depend on what you have handy and your personal preference.

Is it a big job to remove the lining paper?  

It can be time-consuming, especially if the paper’s been on for a long time. But with the right tools and a bit of elbow grease, it’s definitely doable.

Conclusion

Taking off-lining paper can feel like a big task, but with the right approach, you’ve got this! The secret is good preparation, a sprinkle of patience, and arming yourself with the right tools. Once you’ve got all that paper off, you’ll be left with a fresh, clean slate waiting for your creative touch. So why wait? Dive in and start transforming those walls into something spectacular—your dream space is just a peel-and-scrape away!