Removing Old Wallpaper and Preparing Walls for Painting

When it comes to giving a fresh and clean look to a room, few transformations are as satisfying as a well-executed paint job. However, painting over old wallpaper or poorly prepared walls can lead to disappointing results, peeling paint, visible seams, or uneven textures that diminish the beauty of your chosen colour. Properly removing wallpaper and preparing the surface beneath is essential to achieving a smooth, professional finish that lasts. While this process can be labour-intensive, it’s crucial for creating the ideal foundation for your new wall treatment

This guide explores the essential steps for removing wallpaper and preparing walls for painting, common pitfalls to avoid, and when it might be best to call in professionals.

Understanding the Importance of Proper Wall Preparation

The key to a flawless paint finish lies beneath the surface. Many people are tempted to paint directly over wallpaper, especially if it's tightly adhered and appears smooth. While that may seem like a time-saving solution, it can create long-term problems. Wallpaper glue can degrade over time, and paint applied over wallpaper often peels or bubbles, especially in humid environments like bathrooms or kitchens.

Even if the wallpaper seems firmly attached, painting over it locks in moisture and adhesives that may eventually break down. That’s why proper removal and surface preparation are critical, especially if you’re aiming for a professional-grade finish.

Step One: Assessing the Wallpaper Type

Before you start stripping wallpaper, identify what kind you're working with. Some wallpapers, particularly more recent ones, are strippable and designed to come off easily without damaging the drywall underneath. Others, especially older papers or those applied with strong adhesives, require more effort and care.

You can test your wallpaper by using a putty knife or scraper to gently lift a corner. If it peels away in long, dry sheets, you're in luck, it's probably strippable. If it tears into small fragments or pulls off a layer of paper with it, you'll need to use additional methods like soaking or steaming.

Step Two: Removing the Wallpaper

If the wallpaper is strippable, begin by peeling off as much as you can by hand. Start at a seam or corner and pull slowly. In many cases, only the top decorative layer will come off easily, leaving behind a paper backing that's still glued to the wall.

For non-strippable wallpaper or stubborn glue residues, a different approach is necessary. First, use a wallpaper scorer, a small handheld tool that perforates the surface to create tiny holes that allow moisture to penetrate. Once scored, apply a wallpaper removal solution or a mixture of warm water and a few drops of dish soap using a sponge or spray bottle. Allow the solution to soak in for 15 to 20 minutes before scraping with a putty knife.

In extreme cases, especially in rooms with multiple wallpaper layers, a wallpaper steamer might be required. These machines use hot steam to loosen the glue and can be rented from most home improvement stores. They can be very effective but require caution to avoid overheating or damaging drywall underneath.

Step Three: Removing Residual Adhesive

After the wallpaper is gone, it's common to find sticky patches or a thin film of adhesive left behind. This residue must be removed thoroughly, as it can interfere with primer and paint adhesion. Use warm water, mild detergent, and a sponge or cloth to wash down the entire surface. In stubborn areas, a vinegar and water mixture or a commercial adhesive remover can help break down the glue.

Be patient during this step. Scrubbing too hard can damage the drywall surface, while rushing may leave behind spots that compromise your final paint finish. Once all adhesive is removed, rinse the walls with clean water and allow them to dry completely.

Step Four: Repairing and Smoothing the Surface

With the wallpaper and glue gone, it’s time to repair any imperfections. Old wallpaper often hides blemishes such as nail holes, dents, and cracks. Use a high-quality spackling compound or joint compound to fill in these flaws. Apply with a putty knife, smoothing it evenly and feathering the edges to blend with the surrounding wall.

Once the filler is dry, sand the patched areas with fine-grit sandpaper (typically 120–150 grit) to ensure a seamless surface. You may also need to sand the entire wall lightly to remove any texture left behind by the wallpaper. Take care not to oversand, as this can damage drywall or create uneven spots.

After sanding, wipe down the walls with a damp cloth or tack cloth to remove all dust. Any remaining particles can affect how the primer and paint adhere.

Step Five: Applying Primer

Many DIYers overlook priming, but this step of applying primer properly is essential for achieving a long-lasting, even paint finish. A quality primer seals the surface, provides a consistent base for the topcoat, and helps the paint adhere more effectively. For walls that have undergone wallpaper removal, a stain-blocking or high-adhesion primer is especially important to cover any remaining discolouration or minor adhesive traces.

Apply primer using a roller for large surfaces and a brush for edges and corners. Allow it to dry fully according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying paint.

Step Six: Painting Your Prepared Walls

Now that your walls are clean, repaired, and primed, you're ready to paint. Choose a high-quality interior paint that suits the function of the room, matte or eggshell finishes for living areas, and moisture-resistant paints for bathrooms and kitchens.

Use smooth, overlapping strokes with a roller and cut in along edges with a brush. Two coats are usually recommended for even coverage and durability. Allow adequate drying time between coats, and keep the room well-ventilated to help the paint cure properly.

When to Call in the Experts

While removing wallpaper and preparing walls can be a satisfying DIY task, it's not always straightforward. Older homes, for example, may have multiple wallpaper layers or walls that haven’t been primed in decades, making removal more complex. If the wallpaper is glued directly onto drywall without a protective layer beneath, removing it could damage the wall surface, requiring extensive repair or even replacement of drywall sections.

This is where hiring a professional team can save you time, stress, and potentially a costly mistake. If you're in the UK and want a flawless finish without the hassle, Adam Painters and Decorators is here to help.

At Adam Painters and Decorators, we specialise in wallpaper removal, wall restoration, and professional-grade painting. Our verified professionals understand how to handle even the most challenging surfaces with care and precision. Whether you need walls repaired after difficult wallpaper removal, a perfectly smooth base for a modern paint job, or expert advice on materials and finishes, our team is ready to deliver exceptional results.

With next-day availability, online price estimates in just two minutes, and a reputation for quality workmanship, Adam Painters and Decorators offers the ideal blend of efficiency, reliability, and craftsmanship. We handle every step from preparation to the final coat, so your walls look as good as new.

Final Thoughts

Removing old wallpaper and preparing walls for painting is more than just a cosmetic update; it’s a vital part of maintaining your home’s interior surfaces. Skipping steps or rushing through the process can compromise the quality of your paint job and lead to problems down the line. Whether you decide to tackle it yourself or bring in a professional team like Adam Painters and Decorators, taking the time to do it right ensures a finish that’s not only beautiful but also durable.

By understanding each stage of the process and knowing when to call for expert help, you can transform tired, outdated walls into clean, vibrant canvases that enhance the character of your home. A well-prepared wall doesn’t just hold paint, it holds value, style, and lasting impact.