How To Take Border Off Wall: My Personal Experience
Recently, I decided to redesign my living room, and one of the things that bothered me the most was the outdated wallpaper border. I knew I had to take it off, but I had never done it before. After some research and trial and error, I finally found the best way to do it. In this article, I will share my experience and guide you step by step on how to take border off wall.
Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Gather the tools
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools, such as a wallpaper scraper, a spray bottle filled with warm water, a putty knife, and a sponge.
Step 2: Prepare the area
Cover the floor and nearby furniture with plastic sheets to protect them from water and debris. You should also remove any outlet covers or light switch plates.
Step 3: Score the border
Use the wallpaper scraper to score the border. This will create small holes that allow water to seep through and loosen the adhesive.
Step 4: Spray water
Spray warm water on the border, making sure to saturate it completely. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes to allow the adhesive to loosen.
Step 5: Peel off the border
Using a putty knife or wallpaper scraper, gently peel off the border. If it doesn’t come off easily, spray more water and let it soak for a few more minutes.
Step 6: Clean the wall
Use a sponge and warm water to clean any remaining adhesive or residue from the wall. You can also use a wallpaper removal solution if needed.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
1. Use warm water to spray the border, as hot water can damage the wall surface.
2. Work in small sections to prevent the border from drying out.
3. If the border is old or difficult to remove, use a wallpaper removal solution.
4. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the adhesive and water.
5. Use a hairdryer to warm up the border and make it easier to peel off.
6. Use a wallpaper steamer if you have a large area to remove.
7. Use a scraper with a long handle to reach high areas.
8. Don’t use too much pressure when scraping, as it can damage the wall.
9. Clean the wall thoroughly before applying new wallpaper or paint.
10. Take breaks as needed to avoid fatigue and frustration.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Removing an outdated border can give your room a fresh look.
– It’s a relatively easy and affordable DIY project.
– You don’t need any special skills or tools.
Cons:
– Removing the border can be time-consuming and messy.
– If the wall underneath is damaged or uneven, it may need to be repaired before applying new wallpaper or paint.
My Personal Review and Suggestion
Overall, I found the process of removing the wallpaper border to be straightforward and effective. However, it did take longer than expected, and there were a few stubborn areas that required extra effort. I would recommend using a wallpaper removal solution if you have an older or more difficult border to remove. Additionally, take the time to properly prepare the area and protect your furniture and floors. With patience and persistence, you can easily remove that outdated border and create a new look for your room.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Can I paint over the wallpaper border instead of removing it?
A: While it is possible to paint over a wallpaper border, it’s not recommended. The paint may not adhere well to the wallpaper, and it may still show through. Additionally, painting over wallpaper can make it more difficult to remove in the future.
Q: How do I know if the wall underneath the border is damaged?
A: Look for any cracks, holes, or uneven areas on the wall. If you see any damage, you may need to repair it before applying new wallpaper or paint.
Q: Can I use a wallpaper steamer instead of warm water?
A: Yes, a wallpaper steamer can be an effective way to remove wallpaper borders, especially if you have a large area to remove.