Wallpaper Removal Tip

Joe asks,

My son has just purchased a new home and will need to remove multiple rooms of wallpaper. We were wondering what would be the best method to use since we want to do it ourselves. It looks like vinyl coated paper not solid vinyl or flocked. Is it easier to use a chemical such as Piranha or would using a small steamer work better. Maybe a combination of the two? He had heard using hot water with fabric softener and a scraper worked well.

Our Answer

Hi Joe, the best approach would be to rent a wallpaper steamer. This does the best job of loosening the old paper without damaging the wall. Also, using fabric softener on the paper will help loosen it far better than commercially available solution. Good luck with the project!