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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.

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.

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. 

Rubbing alcohol may help dissolve stubborn wallpaper adhesive that remains after removal, but be sure to apply it carefully to prevent damaging your walls. Apply a small amount using a cotton swab or pad, then gently scrape or wipe the adhesive away.