Wallpaper Removal

Expert removal and surface preparation for a fresh start.

Service overview

Removing old wallpaper can be a frustrating and damaging process if not done correctly. Our professional wallpaper removal service ensures that old paper is stripped away safely, protecting the underlying drywall or plaster. We then prep the surface so it is perfectly ready for new wallpaper or a fresh coat of paint.

Safe removal of all wallpaper types
Protection of floors and baseboards
Adhesive residue removal
Wall washing and minor patching

Call (971) 441-5900 for a Quote

Our process

Room Protection: We meticulously cover floors, baseboards, and outlets to protect them from water and adhesive.
Perforation and Scoring: If necessary, we lightly score the paper to allow removal solutions to penetrate.
Application of Solution: We use professional-grade, safe removal solutions or steam to loosen the old adhesive.
Careful Stripping: We gently scrape away the paper, taking care not to gouge the drywall.
Residue Cleaning: We wash the walls thoroughly to remove all remaining glue, leaving a clean surface.

Schedule Removal Services

Materials & surfaces

We are equipped to remove all types of old wallcoverings from various surfaces:

Vinyl and vinyl-coated paper
Traditional paper and borders
Grasscloth and textured materials
Removal from standard drywall
Careful removal from historic plaster

Request a Consultation

Protecting Drywall & Post-Removal Prep

The biggest risk of DIY wallpaper removal is severely damaging the drywall paper face beneath. Our experienced technicians know exactly how much moisture and pressure to apply to release the adhesive without harming the wall. After removal, the job isn't done—we meticulously wash away all residual glue, as leftover adhesive will ruin a new paint job or cause new wallpaper to fail.

Get Professional Help

Pricing factors

Wallpaper removal is highly unpredictable. Pricing factors include:

The type of wallpaper being removed
Whether the walls were properly primed before the paper was originally installed
The number of layers of old wallpaper
The total square footage of the room

Get an Estimate

Timeline & prep checklist

Removal can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days per room. To prepare, please:

Clear the room of as much furniture as possible
Remove all wall hangings, outlet covers, and switch plates
Be prepared for the process to create some humidity and mess (which we will clean up)

Plan Your Project

Why choose us

Don't risk damaging your walls with DIY removal methods. Perfect Paperhangers has the tools, solutions, and patience required to strip walls cleanly and efficiently, saving you time, frustration, and potential repair costs.

Contact Perfect Paperhangers

Areas we serve

We offer wallpaper removal services throughout the Portland Metro area:

View All Service Areas

FAQ

Can you guarantee how long removal will take? +

Unfortunately, no. The ease of removal depends entirely on how the walls were prepped before the paper was hung years ago. If they weren't primed properly, removal takes significantly longer.

Will my walls be ready to paint immediately after? +

Once we wash the adhesive off, the walls will be clean. However, if you plan to paint, you will still need to apply a good quality primer before your topcoat. We can provide minor patching if requested.

Do you use toxic chemicals? +

No. We primarily use hot water, steam, and safe, enzyme-based removal solutions that break down the starch in the adhesive without harsh chemicals.

Can you remove wallpaper that has been painted over? +

Yes, but it is a much more difficult process. The paint seals the paper, making it hard for our removal solutions to penetrate. It requires extensive scoring and patience.

What happens if the drywall gets damaged? +

Our professionals are highly trained to avoid damage. If minor gouges occur (which is sometimes unavoidable with unprimed walls), we can skim coat and patch those areas as part of our prep service.

Do I have to remove old wallpaper before hanging new? +

In 95% of cases, yes. Hanging new paper over old paper can cause the old adhesive to fail, resulting in bubbling and peeling. We strongly recommend removal first.

Do you haul away the old wallpaper? +

Yes, we bag up all the old paper and debris and leave your space clean and tidy.

Can you just remove a border? +

Yes, we can remove borders. However, if the border was applied directly over other wallpaper, removing it may damage the underlying paper.