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Wallpaper Removal in Lighthouse Point, FL

The short answer

We strip old wallpaper from Lighthouse Point homes using the gentlest method that works for each wall, then repair, skim and prime the surface. The goal is a smooth wall ready for paint or a new wallcovering, without gouged drywall.

Taking down old wallpaper sounds simple until a strip tears off in thumbnail-sized pieces and brings the drywall facing with it. Many Lighthouse Point homes have paper that has been on the walls for decades, sometimes painted over, sometimes layered two or three deep, and often hung without primer underneath. Add a humid climate that has been working on the adhesive for years and the job can go sideways quickly. From our base in Pompano Beach, about a mile up the road, we remove wallpaper in houses and condos throughout Lighthouse Point and leave walls ready for paint or new paper.

Figuring out what is on the wall

Removal starts with a test, not a scraper. We pick a hidden corner and try to lift an edge dry. Strippable papers peel off in full sheets and leave little behind. Peelable papers release their top layer but leave a paper backing that needs soaking. Older traditional papers, especially ones hung straight onto unprimed drywall, are bonded much more tightly and come off slowly.

We also check for paint over paper, multiple layers, and vinyl faces that block water from reaching the glue. Each of these changes the approach. Knowing what we are dealing with up front keeps the job predictable and protects the wall underneath.

  • Strippable: lifts off dry in large sheets
  • Peelable: top layer peels, backing must be soaked
  • Traditional paper: needs scoring and soaking
  • Painted-over paper: paint must be broken before water can reach the paste
  • Multiple layers: removed one at a time

Our removal methods

For most papers we use warm water with a wallpaper remover solution, applied in sections and given time to soak through. Vinyl or painted surfaces get perforated with a scoring tool first so the solution can reach the adhesive. Steam is reserved for stubborn traditional paper on plaster, where it softens old paste without soaking the wall as heavily.

On drywall we avoid steam and oversoaking where possible, because the paper face of drywall loosens just like wallpaper does. Patience matters more than force. Wide, flexible scrapers held at a low angle lift the softened paper without digging in.

Lighthouse Point walls and what they hide

Older homes in the city were commonly built with concrete-block exterior walls finished with plaster on the inside, while many interior partitions and newer homes use drywall. Plaster tolerates soaking and scraping well. Drywall does not, and unprimed drywall under old paper is the scenario most likely to need repair after removal.

Bathrooms and kitchens deserve a closer look once the paper is off. Years of humidity can leave mildew on the back of the paper or the wall surface, especially on walls shared with a shower or near an exterior door. We clean and treat any staining we find and let you know if anything suggests an ongoing moisture problem.

Cleaning off the adhesive and repairing the surface

Leftover paste is the step people skip, and it shows. Painted over, old glue can crack, wrinkle or bleed through. New wallpaper hung over it may not bond evenly. We wash walls until they no longer feel slick, then let them dry fully, which can take longer in the humid summer months.

Next we repair what removal revealed: torn drywall face gets sealed with a primer made for that purpose, then skimmed and sanded. Nail holes, old anchor holes and hairline cracks are filled. The wall is finished with a primer suited to its next coat, whether that is paint or new wallpaper.

Timing the job around the weather

Removal is wet work, and walls need to dry before repairs and primer go on. The cooler, drier months from November into April make that easier. In summer we keep the AC running and may use fans or a dehumidifier to bring moisture down before skimming.

If you are planning removal during hurricane season, schedule a little flexibility in case a storm interrupts power, since drying times depend on the air conditioning.

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What to expect

How a visit goes

  1. Clear scope before work begins

    After measuring and checking the walls, we explain what prep is needed, how many rolls to order and how long the job should take.

  2. Patterns that line up

    We plan seam placement around windows, doors and corners so repeats stay aligned from one strip to the next across the whole room.

  3. Respect for your home

    Drop cloths go down first, paste is wiped off trim as we go, and we leave the room ready to use at the end of each day.

FAQ

Common questions

Don’t see your question? Call (561) 823-3201 and we’ll talk it through.

Can I just paint over my old wallpaper?

It is possible on well-bonded paper, but seams often show through and moisture can make the paper bubble later. Removal gives a cleaner, longer-lasting result.

Will removing wallpaper damage my drywall?

Some drywall damage is common when paper was hung without primer. We use gentle methods to limit it and repair any torn areas before priming.

How long does removal take?

A small powder room may be done in a day. Larger rooms, layered paper or painted-over paper can take longer, plus drying time.

Do you install new wallpaper after removal?

Yes. Many customers have us remove the old paper and hang a new one, which lets us prep the wall exactly for the new product.

Do I need to move furniture first?

Clearing small items and valuables helps. We move larger pieces away from the walls and cover floors before starting.

Do you remove wallpaper in neighboring areas?

Yes, including Hillsboro Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coconut Creek, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea and Boca Raton.

Ready to talk about your walls?

Tell us which room you are thinking about, where you live and what paper you have in mind. We will set up a visit to measure and look at the surface.

Request Service Call (561) 823-3201
Call (561) 823-3201 Request Service