Do I have to remove old wallpaper before applying new wallpaper?

• <div><p>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 <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/laying-wallpaper-over-wallpaper.htm">putting wallpaper over</a> 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. </p></div>

How long does wallpaper last?

• <div><p>Wallpaper lasts an average of around <b>15 years</b>, but there is some variance. The type of wallpaper matters, as vinyl wallpaper tends to last the longest—sometimes 20 years or more—while a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/peel-and-stick-vs-traditional-wallpaper.htm">peel-and-stick wallpaper</a>, which is the easiest to install for DIYers, will usually only last for around five years. Exposure to high humidity, smoke, and UV rays from sunlight can also limit the lifespan of your wallpaper, as can heavy traffic in the installation area.</p></div>

Get matched with top wallpaper removers in Riga, MI

Q: How do I maintain walls after wallpaper removal?

• <div><p>Prime and repaint walls after removal to ensure a clean, finished surface.</p></div>

Q: Do I have to remove old wallpaper before applying new wallpaper?

• <div><p>No, you don&rsquo;t always have to remove old wallpaper before applying a new layer. However, you should pull off the existing wallpaper if it&rsquo;s cracked, peeling, or in poor condition. We&rsquo;d also recommend against <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/laying-wallpaper-over-wallpaper.htm">putting wallpaper over</a> 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. </p></div>

Q: How do I remove a wallpaper border?

• <div><p>Removing a wallpaper border requires the same process to remove full walls of wallpaper. Clear the area, spray down the surface with your hot water and vinegar solution or store-bought spray, wait 10 to 15 minutes, then scrape it off with a putty knife. Sometimes, border wallpaper lifts easier than larger sheets, so you can just peel it right off the wall by hand.</p></div>

Q: What are the benefits of professional material removal?

• <div><p>Professionals handle heavy lifting, proper disposal, and recycling, reducing environmental impact.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Wallpaper Removal pros in Riga, MI

*The Angi rating for Wallpaper Removal companies in Riga, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Wallpaper Removal needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Wallpaper Removal companies in Riga, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Wallpaper Removal needs.

Last update on August 07, 2025

Reviewed in August 2025
Very happy with the work provided by JZ's Tree Removal. He was fast to provide a quote and schedule the work. He arrived with his crew as scheduled. He is very polite and professional. They safely cut down my three tall trees piece by piece, removed all the wood, and did a great job cleaning...
Jz's Tree Removal And Firewood
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Reviewed in February 2025
We had Liedel Power Washing and Painting paint our kitchen, foyer and ceiling throughout the house. We had wallpaper in both areas that they expertly sealed patched and made paintable. Their team were all fantastic to work with. They had some areas that needed additional attention and gladly...
Liedel Power Cleaning & Painting
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Reviewed in October 2024
The wallpaper turned out excellent! The work was quick and professional. We would definitely hire again!
Paper Genius Wallcoverings
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Reviewed in November 2023
Aaron was prompt and professional. He communicated throughout the process and was able to remove pet stains from my white shag area rug. We will definitely use this company again
Bigfoot Carpet Care
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Reviewed in August 2023
Got glue on my antique bench. Called to ask how to remove it and they never returned my phone call.
Central Avenue Strip Shop
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Reviewed in May 2021
I highly recommend this pro. They were hired to perform a plaster board ceiling repair. The work is excellent. Even upon close inspection you cannot tell there was a repair; it blends seamlessly. They were very neat workers, even removing their shoes when moving through the house. Also, very...
Humberto Maradiaga
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Reviewed in May 2021
As always great work. Showed up as scheduled and completed work as advised. Any debris removed after finished. I would not have anyone else work on my slate roof.
SALGAU ROOFING
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Reviewed in May 2021
Luke efficiently removed 2 dead Little Albert pine trees and then helped decide what should replace them. He definitely knows his business and has a pleasant personality to go along with his skills! I highly recommend Heritage.
Heritage Tree Professionals, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2021
Great young gentleman who did a great job on several minor remodeling projects that I am no longer able to complete. Replaced out of date inside and outside light fixture, stained a large bow window, removed countertops, restored the bottom of a sink vanity that was severely water damaged. ...
Tim O Toolman, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2020
Too expensive for the performed work. Did not remove couch in one piece (chose to break it apart first), despite the couch entering the home in one piece.
A+ Equipment Services & Excavation & A+ Junk
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Find Wallpaper removers in Riga

Clean-Up Dynamic Services

5.0(

)

Serving Riga, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Great Service, very quick to respond. Definitely would hire for future jobs."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Black Swamp Painters LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Riga, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

"Hired to do interior painting on our 1.5 story home home, in preparation to sell. Easy to work with to meet our expectations. Thoroughly discussed the job before starting. Came prepared with all the necessary supplies and tools. Did a good job throughout the home, and good follow up after the job was complete."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Riga, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I am very pleased with how quickly and professionally my home was painted."

Surface was prepped by diamond grinding.

Beautiful view while working. Painted brown wall, steel trusses, and lights

+122

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Riga, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1965

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"The y were too busy for our project (2 weeks out) but were very responsive in reviewing the job.
"

Recommended by88%of homeowners

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Hampton Enterprise LLC

3.7(

)

Serving Riga, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They were good. They were pretty fast and came on time. My overall experience with them has been good."

Recommended by60%of homeowners

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Renee's wallcoverings plus LLC

New to Angi

Serving Riga, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

20 year experience, a fresh new look on home or business.

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TXP

New to Angi

Serving Riga, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

commitment to high-quality workmanship, exceptional customer satisfaction, and attention to detail. With years of experience, competitive pricing, and a reputation for reliability, my team delivers personalized service tailored to each client’s needs. Additionally, I offer eco-friendly options, making my company a top choice for those who value both quality and environmental responsibility.

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Wallpaper Removal questions, answered by experts

Prime and repaint walls after removal to ensure a clean, finished surface.

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.

Removing a wallpaper border requires the same process to remove full walls of wallpaper. Clear the area, spray down the surface with your hot water and vinegar solution or store-bought spray, wait 10 to 15 minutes, then scrape it off with a putty knife. Sometimes, border wallpaper lifts easier than larger sheets, so you can just peel it right off the wall by hand.

Professionals handle heavy lifting, proper disposal, and recycling, reducing environmental impact.

Wallpaper lasts an average of around 15 years, but there is some variance. The type of wallpaper matters, as vinyl wallpaper tends to last the longest—sometimes 20 years or more—while a peel-and-stick wallpaper, which is the easiest to install for DIYers, will usually only last for around five years. Exposure to high humidity, smoke, and UV rays from sunlight can also limit the lifespan of your wallpaper, as can heavy traffic in the installation area.

The Riga, MI homeowners’ guide to wallpaper removal services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

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