How do professional painters in Vancouver remove old wallpaper before repainting, and should I try doing it myself?

Professional wallpaper removal in Metro Vancouver follows a systematic process that gives much better results than most DIY attempts. Painters typically start by scoring the wallpaper surface with a perforating tool to allow moisture to penetrate the adhesive layer behind it. They then apply a wallpaper removal solution mixed with hot water, either by spraying or rolling it on, and let it soak for fifteen to thirty minutes. A steamer may also be used for stubborn papers, particularly vinyl-coated wallpapers that resist moisture penetration. Once the adhesive has softened, the paper is carefully scraped off using broad drywall knives, working methodically to avoid gouging the drywall underneath. After removal, residual adhesive is washed off with a solution and scraped smooth. This step is critical because any remaining paste will cause the new paint to bubble and peel. The drywall beneath old wallpaper often has damage including torn paper facing, skim coat failure, and gouges from previous installation or removal attempts. A professional will repair these areas with joint compound, sand smooth, and apply an oil-based or shellac primer to seal the surface before painting. While DIY wallpaper removal is possible, the risk of damaging your drywall is high, especially if the wallpaper was installed directly onto unprimed drywall, which was common practice in many Vancouver homes built before the 1990s. In that scenario, removal almost always pulls off the paper facing of the drywall, requiring extensive repair. Get a quote from a professional painter who includes both removal and wall repair in their price.

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