Wallpaper Removal
Wallpaper is Not Easy
Ideally, wallpaper removal is quick and easy—just peel it off, with no mess, no wall damage, and no stubborn adhesive left behind. In a perfect scenario, the paper was installed correctly on a properly prepped wall, making removal a smooth process that leaves your walls clean and ready for fresh interior painting.
What You Might Find
Unfortunately, wallpaper removal rarely goes as planned. Many walls were never properly sized (primed before wallpaper installation), meaning the paper has bonded tightly to the drywall or plaster. Instead of peeling off in large, satisfying strips, it tears into tiny, stubborn pieces. The adhesive might refuse to release, leaving behind a sticky, patchy mess. The removal process can quickly turn into a nightmare—damaged walls, gouged drywall, unexpected repairs, and frustration levels rising. What starts as a simple DIY project often ends in regret, stress, and maybe even a drink to ease the pain.
...extremely professional from the moment he stepped into the house through communicating changes to the bid that arose because of my hamfisted attempt to remove wallpaper before they arrived (protip - just pay Mike's crew to remove wallpaper instead of putting yourself through that misery).
What to Expect During Removal
When you hire a pro for wallpaper removal, you can expect an organized and efficient process from start to finish. Professionals begin by setting up a tidy work area, carefully taping and tarping to protect your floors, furniture, and trim from dust, debris, and moisture. They then remove the wallpaper and adhesive glue using specialized tools and techniques tailored to the wallpaper type and wall condition.
Once the wallpaper is gone, the walls are thoroughly scrubbed and rinsed to eliminate any residue, ensuring a clean surface ready for the next steps. If needed, we’ll repair any wall damage, fill holes or cracks, seal stains, and sand rough spots according to the agreed Scope of Work. Their expertise guarantees clean lines, a flash-free surface, and a lint-free finish, leaving your walls perfectly prepped for a fresh coat of paint or a new design.
When to NOT Remove Wallpaper
Sometimes, wallpaper removal just isn’t the best option—too much time, too much mess, too much cost. When that happens, it’s best to have a conversation about practical alternatives. And in many cases, that means painting over the wallpaper as the most reasonable tradeoff.
Cost For Wallpaper Removal
Here again, it depends:
- Number of Layers
More layers mean more time. Are they well-adhered? Water-permeable? The more layers, the more complex the removal process. - Wall Condition
The condition of the walls plays a major role in pricing. If the walls are damaged, uneven, or have existing issues like mold or water stains, additional repairs are needed to create a smooth, paint-ready surface. Poorly maintained or aged walls may require patching, sanding, or even sealing. - Ceiling Height
Taller ceilings add complexity, requiring scaffolding or tall ladders. Vaulted ceilings? Fuhgeddaboudit—unless you're up for the extra effort and cost. - Previous Wall Prep
If the wallpaper was installed over poorly prepared surfaces—like unprimed drywall or previous repairs—the adhesive may have bonded too tightly, making removal more challenging. In these cases, extra care and time are needed to avoid damaging the underlying wall.
At Crestwood Painting, we carefully evaluate each of these factors before providing an estimate. We’ll advise you on the best options for your situation, whether it’s full removal, partial removal, or other alternatives, ensuring the most cost-effective and efficient solution.
