Removing wallpaper border
by
Eloise
+5
I would like to remove a wallpaper border only, while leaving the existing wallpaper behind it in place. I want to replace it with another complimentary border more to my taste. I'm prepared for the job to be tedious. What is the best approach for this? Is it likely to require joint compound to smooth out the edges of any residual paper? I would like to avoid repapering the entire room if at all possible.
8 answers
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This can be tricky since borders are not all the same height. If the existing border is still adhered firmly and the new border is the same height or only slightly larger, I would apply the new border right over the old. If the new border is smaller...well I can not think of a way to remove the existing border without damaging the wallpaper you want to save.
Shari
on Feb 09, 2015
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I had great luck removing wall paper border but you're right, it can be tedious. I used warm water and liquid fabric softener in a spray bottle and a plastic kitchen scrubby for the hard spots. I scratched up the border with the scrubby, sprayed the warm water stuff on and worked my way across the wall, working in about 6 foot sections. Good luck, mine came off without problems, no need for joint compound. Hope yours comes off just as well. :)
Merry_sherri
on Feb 09, 2015
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The border may have been glued on using wallpaper adhesive in which case warm water as previously suggested will work. However I have seen some borders attached with PVA which makes them tricky to remove. I would just recommend you try in a small discreet area to see what happens... As mentioned elsewhere, if you can find a border which is same size or larger you will save work. If it's much bigger though you may need to use filler to smooth the edges of the old border. In UK we have something called 'coving adhesive' which is available ready mixed - I am sure you have something similar. It's very fine and used to attach coving to the ceiling...it makes the loveliest filler, soft and easy to rub down. Good luck!
Susie
on Feb 10, 2015
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You may be better off painting the border with kilz or another sealer, then applying the new border on top.
Adrianne C
on Feb 10, 2015
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Great suggestions. Thanks to all of you who responded. I'm developing a plan of attack as I write this! :)
Eloise
on Feb 10, 2015
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I just removed the old wall paper to replace with new in my kitchen-- some paper was left-- I simply lightly scrubbed it with a magic eraser-- I was shocked at how it all came off in just a minute!
Pamela
on Feb 10, 2015
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wallpaper can be removed with a steam iron if you take your time and let the iron do its job. in short just be patient.
Fred Fulton
on Feb 10, 2015
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Problem being that most methods you use to remove the border is going to affect the top portion of wallpaper that it is on. There will be no way to keep that wallpaper from getting wet/damp and that's going to show even after it's dried. I would just paint the border as suggest by Adrianne C. and give yourself a new slate to work with, without affecting the wallpaper even the slightest.
Pagan Raven
on Feb 10, 2015
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