We are having pretty good luck removing wallpaper with spraying enzyme solution (the rented steamer did not seem to work well). The question is, do we need to scrape off the paste (sizing?) as well or leave it alone? The plans are to paint the walls. Thanks.
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Replies
I always recommend warm water and tsp before painting, should take the sizing right off. BTW someone told me apple cider vinegar mixed with Joy dishsoap is good for wallpaper removal - haven't tried it yet, 'tho.
Definitely remove the sizing. If you don't, the paint will soften it and you will have a mess on your hands. I have found wallpaper remover (such as Diff) to work pretty well removing residual paste. Even though it does a pretty poor job of removing vinyl wallpaper.
After I remove all I can, I sand the walls by hand with coarse sandpaper (60 grit or so) to smooth any rough spots and to get a good feel for the condition of the walls. For example, there may be some dings or low spots that require a quick spackle.
Then, I prime everything. I think this step is important for a wall that's had wallpaper removed and might vary in porosity. Finally, I take one last look to make sure the walls are really ready for paint.
-Don
Don't forget to use an oil based primer. Sand the wall after you remove the sizing. Spackle, sand again, then prime.Use any topcoat, oil or water base for a finish. Remember, you wall prep will determine how good the finish project will be.
Jim Z
Why an oil based primer? Water base won't work? How about alcohol(shellac) based? Just wanna know what's best and why.
oil base primer will not activate the sizing or the remaining paste. both are latex based. the oil will seal the wall. I use Kilz . I would not use shellac. It is too soft a finish. The oil will dry hard and fast.
Jim Z
Thanx, always glad to hear from a pro!
Paperhanger / Jim Z has got it right with one minor ommision -- after the primer is applied and dry, go back and look critically at the walls - fix any remaining defects which showed up when the walls got primed, spot prime any additional repairs.
It always amazes me that a wall can feel / look perfect until the primer goes on, at which point a ridge, ding, pocket, etc. shows up -- whatever you see in the primer, you'll see in the paint.
JIm
Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.