During the commercial renovation process, it is common to come across a painted wall that has wallpaper beneath its many layers. This is very common in older homes and buildings, partly due to the fact that wallpaper was more of a hassle to remove back then because the market lacked the innovative tools and products that we now have to ease the process. But for many property owners, especially multi-housing real estate developers and landlords, painting over wallpaper is still the more cost-effective and time-convenient option. The fact of the matter is, painting over old wallpaper really just adds to imminent work required down the line when it comes time to properly renovate.
If you are a new building owner or commercial tenant who needs to remove old wallpaper that’s been painted over, you are probably wondering how to manage the project efficiently. After all, time is money, and you are not prepared to waste either one as a business operator. But the ugly truth is, there is no secret method to removing painted wallpaper quickly. In all cases, it will take a lot more effort, time, and material than a standard wallpaper removal job. Furthermore, if you come to find several layers of paint, your best option might be to replace the drywall altogether.
Continue reading to learn the best practice for removing wallpaper that was painted over previously, and who to call when your commercial renovation undertaking is more than you thought you could handle!
What You Need to Remove Old Wallpaper
Keep in mind that you may require new drywall installation if you find that there are several layers of paint on top of the wallpaper. If there are only a few layers of paint, you may be successful at removing it without having to replace the drywall. If you do not already know how to remove wallpaper, simply review the steps before getting started. What you will see is that it is a very similar process to removing painted wallpaper.
You will first need to gather all the necessary items, including:
➣ 3-in-1 Scraper Tool or Broad Knife
➣ Serrated Paper Scoring Tool
➣ Wallpaper Stripper Solution
➣ Wallpaper Removal Cloth
➣ Ladder or Step Stool
➣ Large Plastic Bucket
➣ 2 Gallons Warm Water
➣ Rubber Gloves
➣ Safety Goggles
➣ Drop Cloths or Tarps
Wallpaper Removal Guide for Painted Walls
Using medium pressure, score the outer layer on the wall with the paper scoring tool. Too much pressure can damage the wall so take your time on this part. You may also use a thick-bristled wire brush, or both. Choose the tool that you are more comfortable using and that produces the most results.
Once you have scored the paint, spray on your wallpaper stripper solution, focusing on small sections at a time. Then allow the solution to soak into the wall for a few minutes. Spraying too much solution on at once can damage the wall, so don’t be too generous with the spray bottle. If you do not wish to use a commercial wallpaper stripper solution, you can mix water, vinegar, and liquid fabric softener into a plastic spray bottle instead.
After the solution has soaked into the wall for a few minutes, grab your 3-in-1 scraper tool (available at any local hardware or home improvement store for a low cost), and start with the sharpest edge. Get underneath the painted wallpaper and work slowly to scrape it away. Scraping in alternate directions will help expedite the effects.
Expect this process to take several hours, or even days depending on the drywall or plaster used, the type of wallpaper adhesive, the square footage of the wall, the extent of paint on top of the wallpaper, and much more. After an abundant amount of dedication, patience, and effort, you will eventually get it all!
Hire a Professional for Commercial Painting and Drywall
Please remember that all wallpaper removal jobs will be different. There are countless factors that influence the process of removing wallpaper, especially painted-over wallpaper. Sometimes it is best to leave a tedious and complicated project to a licensed professional. An Indianapolis commercial drywall and painting contractor has the tools, resources, and training necessary to remove wallpaper, efficiently and without causing further damage.
In the case that your walls have been damaged by too many layers of paint or wallpaper, they can provide drywall installation and repair services too. If you want outstanding results at a great price, trust your Indiana commercial general contracting company for wallpaper and paint removal services.
Are you in over your head in DIY commercial renovations? Trust a pro for the best results. Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 when you need the most trusted and qualified commercial general contractors for painting and drywall service in Indianapolis, Indiana.
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