Get matched with top wallpaper removers in Dundee, MI

No, you don’t always have to remove old wallpaper before applying a new layer. However, you should pull off the existing wallpaper if it’s cracked, peeling, or in poor condition. We’d also recommend against putting wallpaper over textured or dark-colored wallpaper because the old layer may be visible through the new one. In addition, if you try to hang new wallpaper over vinyl-coated wallpaper, the adhesive might not stick properly. 

Peel-and-stick wallpaper is designed to be removed without damaging walls, making it a good choice for renters or temporary design changes. However, damage to paint or drywall can occur under certain conditions. To prevent issues, the wall surface must be properly prepared before application—it should be clean, smooth, dry, and correctly primed or painted. Applying wallpaper to a freshly painted surface can cause the paint to peel off during removal. Additionally, removing the wallpaper too quickly or aggressively can also cause damage. For best results, always follow the manufacturer's instructions for both application and removal.

It can take a professional anywhere between several hours and a full day to remove wallpaper in one room. How long wallpaper removal takes depends on the type of adhesive, the wallpaper’s age, the condition of the walls, and more.

Wallpaper steamers can be very helpful for removing large sections of wallpaper more easily, but they’re not always a good idea for DIYers. The drywall behind your wallpaper is meant to stay dry, and excessive moisture from improper technique with a wallpaper steamer can leave you with severe wall damage. Drywall also retains moisture, which could result in mold growth over time. It’s best to hire a professional to remove your wallpaper with a steamer to avoid wall damage and related moisture issues.