Layers in older houses
Homes with a long history often have wallpaper on top of wallpaper, sometimes painted over. Each layer slows removal. Underneath, the wall may be original plaster or later drywall. Plaster usually holds up well, while drywall that was never primed can tear as the paper comes off.
How removal works
The painter tests a small section first. Some papers peel off dry. Most older ones need scoring and soaking with warm water or a removal solution, or steaming, to soften the paste. Once the paper is off, the walls must be washed clean of adhesive before anything else.
- Test a small section
- Score and soak or steam
- Scrape off paper and backing
- Wash off all adhesive
- Repair, prime and paint
After the paper comes down
Expect some repairs: gouges, torn drywall paper and old holes. Painters fill and sand these, seal torn drywall with a sealing primer, and sometimes skim-coat a wall. Ask whether repair and priming are included in the price.
Painted-over paper and lead
If wallpaper was painted over in a pre-1978 home, the paint may contain lead. Removing it disturbs that paint, so federal rules require a paid contractor to be an EPA Lead-Safe Certified firm and to contain dust. Ask about it before the work begins.
One plan from start to finish
Most homeowners paint after removal. Ask for one estimate covering removal, repairs, priming and paint so nothing falls between steps.
Protecting floors and trim
Wallpaper removal uses water, steam and scraping tools, so floors and trim need protection. Painters usually lay down waterproof drop cloths, tape plastic over baseboards, shut off power to outlets in the work area and remove switch plates. In older homes with original wood floors, ask how they will keep water from soaking into the boards. A little care at the start avoids repairs later.
Typical wallpaper removal costs
Published ranges from Fixr.
| Job | Typical range |
|---|---|
| National average range | $650 to $950 |
| Per sq ft of wall | $0.75 to $2 |
| Attic room (about 249 sq ft of wall) | $190 to $500 |
| Bedroom (about 303 sq ft of wall) | $230 to $610 |
| Basement (about 643 sq ft of wall) | $485 to $1,290 |
National ranges from the published sources below, shown as a guide only. They are not quotes, and older homes in the lower Hudson Valley often cost more to paint.
Sources: Fixr, removing wallpaper
Questions homeowners ask
Can wallpaper be painted over instead?
It can be done, but seams and bubbles often show through. Removal usually gives a cleaner and longer-lasting result.
How messy is wallpaper removal?
Fairly messy. Painters cover floors, protect outlets and clean up daily, but expect some wet debris and dust during the work.
How long does it take?
A small room with one layer may take a day. Several layers or damaged walls can take several days.
Should I remove wallpaper before selling a house?
Many sellers do, since buyers often prefer freshly painted walls. Removal plus repair and paint is a common pre-sale project. Ask for an estimate that covers all three steps so you can plan the timing.
What if the wall underneath is damaged?
Most painters can fill gouges, seal torn drywall paper and skim small areas. Badly damaged plaster or drywall may need a plasterer or drywall installer before painting. The painter should tell you what they found after removal.
Other services
House painting
Full repaints for historic and newer homes alike.
Exterior house painting
Siding, porches, sashes and trim on older homes.
Interior painting
Plaster walls, ceilings, trim and doors.
Kitchen cabinet painting
Paint solid cabinets instead of replacing them.
Deck and fence staining
Clean and stain decks, porches, rails and fences.
Trim and siding painting
Sills, sashes, brackets, fascia and siding sections.