How do I remove a chair rail?
by
Linda Balon
There is no wains coating or paneling, just the chair rail. What do I use to smooth that area once it is removed before I paint?
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Depending on the wall under the wainsoating, you may need to use light spackle and then sand and paint....
Use a putty knife to remove the chair rail. Watch out for nails. Sand/scrape any rough surfaces. Use drywall patching compound to fill in nail holes and rough edges level with the wall. Let it dry over night. Next day use a damp sponge over the patch to smooth it out. Prime with a good stain blocking primer like Zinsser 123 or BIN. the paint or touch up paint.
I did pretty much what William said when I removed my chair rail, except when I patched, I found it easier to sand it down a little before using the sponge. For me it was easier. I'm known as the "Queen of patching" in my family. LOL And, yes I've tried just using a damp sponge. Maybe I put too much patching compound over the patch, I don't know. Try it both ways and see what works for you. William is more of the professional here, I'm just an amateur.