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>

Can you just paint over wallpaper instead of removing it?

• <div><p>While <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/painting-over-wallpaper-its-possible.htm">it is possible to paint over wallpaper</a>, it’s not always ideal. If the wallpaper is firmly adhered, has no bubbling or peeling, and isn’t textured, you can try to prime and paint over it. Use an oil-based primer to prevent the adhesive from bleeding through. However, if the paper is damaged or loose, removal is the better long-term solution. </p></div>

What is the downside to peel-and-stick wallpaper?

• <div><p>One of the biggest downsides to peel-and-stick wallpaper is that it doesn’t last quite as long as traditional wallpaper. The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-long-does-peel-and-stick-wallpaper-last.htm">life span of peel-and-stick wallpaper</a> is about five years, depending on the quality of the wallpaper and how well you prep the wall before applying. The good news is that, because of its shorter lifespan, peel-and-stick wallpaper is a great choice for people who enjoy switching up their interiors more frequently.</p></div>

Get matched with top wallpaper removers in Harrisville, PA

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: Is it worth buying a wallpaper steamer?

• <div><p>Wallpaper steamers can be very helpful for removing large sections of wallpaper more easily, but they&rsquo;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&rsquo;s best to hire a professional to remove your wallpaper with a steamer to avoid wall damage and related moisture issues.</p></div>

Q: Can you just paint over wallpaper instead of removing it?

• <div><p>While <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/painting-over-wallpaper-its-possible.htm">it is possible to paint over wallpaper</a>, it&rsquo;s not always ideal. If the wallpaper is firmly adhered, has no bubbling or peeling, and isn&rsquo;t textured, you can try to prime and paint over it. Use an oil-based primer to prevent the adhesive from bleeding through. However, if the paper is damaged or loose, removal is the better long-term solution. </p></div>

Q: How do you remove unused wallpaper paste?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re installing new wallpaper and have leftover glue, you can remove unused wallpaper paste from the bucket or pan it&rsquo;s in by letting it dry. If it&rsquo;s an oil-based paste, seal it in a plastic bag and throw it in the garbage. Otherwise, toss the leftover wallpaper paste in the trash. Although it&rsquo;s water-soluble, don&rsquo;t rinse unused wallpaper paste down the sink because it could dry in the pipes and cause a blockage.</p></div>

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

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Last update on December 04, 2025

Reviewed in March 2022
I wanted to keep my oak cabinets stained when other contractors were saying I needed to paint them. They were sanded down and stained. Lookes great. They also removed wallpaper and painted multiple rooms. No money was asked for until the job was halfway done. Everyone was very courteous and...
Stough Painting & Contracting
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Reviewed in November 2020
Thaddeus called to set up appointment for quote. He wore a mask and removed his shoes when entering a house my husband and I flipped for sale. Within a week the technicians, Adama and Cam came to remove the mold in the attic. They were courteous and efficient. This is a top notch company and I...
Mold Medics
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Reviewed in June 2015
He does a lot of interior stuff. I have used him before; this is my second or third time to use him. I thought his price was very fair for what he had to do. He does such a good job on his wallpapering that it lasts forever. I have wallpapering that he had done that is older than 10 years old at...
Ron McGuinnis Painting
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Reviewed in January 2015
I requested two smaller jobs, first the kitchen I removed the wallpaper they prepared the walls with joint compound and sanding. That part was done well , I was able to paint afterwards it looks good. Then the backsplash around the counter which they did a half good job, but was very rushed and...
Ace Handyman Services South Pittsburgh
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Reviewed in April 2013
My fiancee and I bought a new home. It was a last minute job, but they fit us in before we moved in. The crew removed stubborn wallpaper from the previous owners in a few areas and we had them to paint. The removal of wallpaper in 4 areas of the house took them about 3 days, which I was...
SA McDanel Painting & Construction
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Reviewed in November 2012
They were very good and able to remove the nest with no issue. They were very responsive and came out within a day or two of contacting them.
Spectrum Pest Control
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Reviewed in August 2012
I called this individual and set up an appointment for an estimate for wallpaper removal and painting of 2 rooms and hallway and entryway. Not a small job. His ad specifically states "Free Estimates". I spoke to him and set up an appointment for Wednesday evening at 5:00pm. He never came. ...
CTE Painting
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Reviewed in January 2012
I hired Gerard Plumbing to come to my home to remove and replace the bathroom vanity faucets. They arrived on time and as soon as he came in the house they removed their shoes and put on paper slippers. They removed the old bathroom faucets and installed new ones. They price by the job and not...
Gerard Plumbing & Heating
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Starrr Painting

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Starrr Painting

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Transform your home with Starrr Painting. Our team of skilled painters in Youngstown specializes in interior painting, bringing your vision to life. With attention to detail and a commitment to quality, we set ourselves apart from the competition. Contact us today for a flawless finish that will leave you impressed.

"The work was precise, the owner was professional, and the area was cleaned afterwards. I highly recommend this business."

Miranda F on September 2025

"The work was precise, the owner was professional, and the area was cleaned afterwards. I highly recommend this business."

Miranda F on September 2025

Get matched with top wallpaper removers in Harrisville, PA

There are 4 highly-rated local wallpaper removers.

Need a pro for your wallpaper removal project in Harrisville, PA?

Interior Painting or Staining Service

Wallcovering or Wallpaper Installation

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Verified Reviews for Wallpaper Removal pros in Harrisville, PA

Find Wallpaper removers in Harrisville

Starrr Painting

Starrr Painting

Flip And Clean Prophets, LLC

Flip And Clean Prophets, LLC

Gasior Contracting LLC

Gasior Contracting LLC

Do it All Handyman Service

Do it All Handyman Service

Orrick Construction

Orrick Construction

Two men and a brush

Two men and a brush

Montgomery Cleaning & Repair

Montgomery Cleaning & Repair

Fagan Painting

Fagan Painting

Victory Contracting

Victory Contracting

Snap Renovations

Snap Renovations

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