How to Remove Wallpaper Border: A Step-by-Step Guide to 4 Effective Methods

How to Remove Wallpaper Border: 4 Effective Methods

Removing a wallpaper border can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right tools and techniques, you can remove wallpaper borders without damaging your walls.

Safety Considerations

Before you begin, ensure your safety by wearing proper protective clothing and equipment. When using chemical wallpaper removal agents, follow the application directions carefully.

Choosing the Right Method

The best method for removing wallpaper border depends on the type of border and the condition of your walls. Here are four common methods:

Standard Method (for Loose Borders)

• Materials: Ladder, putty knife or wallpaper scraper, safety glasses, plastic drop cloths

1. Locate a seam in the border.
2. Use your fingernail or a scraper’s edge to lift the seam and pull it away from the wall.
3. If the border is resistant, slide the edge of the wallpaper scraper or putty knife beneath the paper and cut through the adhesive.

Steamer Method (for Stubborn Glue)

• Materials: Ladder, steamer, safety glasses, gloves, plastic drop cloths

1. Steam the wallpaper border in short sections to heat and soften the glue.
2. Locate a seam and pull the wallpaper border until you complete the steamed section.
3. Move down the wall and repeat the process until all the border is removed.

Vinegar Method (for Natural Approach)

• Materials: Ladder, spray bottle, putty knife or wallpaper scraper, plastic drop cloths

1. Create a mixture of 1 part vinegar to 1 part water.
2. Spray the mixture on the wallpaper border and let it soak for at least 15 minutes.
3. Remove the wallpaper by locating a seam and pulling it steadily from the wall.

Chemical Method (for Tough Borders)

• Materials: Ladder, wallpaper-scoring tool, safety glasses, respirator, gloves, wallpaper scraper or putty knife, plastic drop cloths

1. Score the surface of the wallpaper border with a wallpaper-scoring tool.
2. Apply the wallpaper remover according to the manufacturer’s instructions and let it soak for the specified time.
3. Wearing gloves, remove the wallpaper border by gently pulling at the paper.
4. Scrape off any remaining glue with a scraper or putty knife.

Additional Tips:

• If you’re attempting to remove the wallpaper border over existing wallpaper, avoid using chemicals or heat that may damage the underlying paper.
• If the wallpaper border begins to pull up paint, score the paint using a utility knife before pulling further.
• Steamers can drop hot water, so always wear gloves and safety glasses and avoid standing directly beneath the steamer’s head.
• If the wallpaper doesn’t pull away easily after spraying with vinegar, repeat the spraying and soaking process.
• For stubborn glue remaining on the wall, apply more chemical wallpaper remover and allow it to soak before scraping.

By following these steps and choosing the right method for your situation, you can safely and effectively remove wallpaper borders, giving your room a fresh and updated look.