Removing wallpaper is one of those home improvement tasks that seems simple at first glance, but can quickly spiral into a time-consuming and frustrating project. Whether you’re renovating a single room or prepping an entire home for painting, it helps to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of professional wall removal versus a DIY approach.
Understanding the Scope of Wall Removal
Wallpaper removal might appear straightforward, but walls come with surprises. Layers of wallpaper, varying adhesives, or damaged drywall can turn a quick peel into a weekend-long effort. In homes built before the 1990s, you might even find wallpaper applied directly to drywall without primer, making it even more difficult to remove cleanly.
Whether you’re dealing with a small bathroom or a large living area, the choice between professional wall removal and going the DIY route can significantly impact the timeline and quality of your results.
Pros of Professional Wall Removal
Hiring experts for wallpaper removal comes with several clear advantages. Professional wall removal ensures experienced technicians handle the job with tools designed for speed and precision. If your wallpaper has been up for decades or there are multiple layers involved, professionals can identify the best removal method without damaging the underlying surface.
Time is another major factor. What might take a homeowner an entire weekend could be completed by a professional crew in a single afternoon. That means less disruption to your daily routine.
Another advantage is the cleanup. Wallpaper removal by professional crews usually includes debris disposal and surface preparation, leaving your walls ready for painting or refinishing.
Professionals also know how to handle delicate surfaces. If the wallpaper was applied over plaster or older drywall, they take extra care to avoid gouges, peeling, or unnecessary patchwork afterward.
Cons of Professional Wall Removal
The most obvious drawback is the cost. Professional wall removal can be more expensive than a DIY approach, especially for large areas or if you’re also paying for painting services. However, it’s worth noting that any savings from doing it yourself might be offset by potential damage or poor results that require corrections.
Scheduling is another consideration. Contractors may not be available immediately, especially during peak renovation seasons. Planning ahead is important if you’re working with a tight timeline.
Lastly, not all professionals are created equal. Hiring a low-budget or inexperienced service can lead to unsatisfactory outcomes. It’s essential to check reviews, request quotes, and ensure the team has experience with wallpaper removal specifically.
Pros of Wallpaper Removal DIY
Doing it yourself can be satisfying. There’s a certain pride in tackling a home project on your own, and wallpaper removal is one task many homeowners believe they can manage.
Cost savings are another strong motivator. If you already own or can borrow tools like scrapers, spray bottles, or steamers, your out-of-pocket expense might be limited to just time and effort.
You also have full control over the pace. If you’re not in a rush, spreading the project over several days or weekends can be more manageable.
Cons of Wallpaper Removal DIY
For many, wallpaper removal DIY quickly turns from a weekend project into a marathon. Without the right tools or techniques, you could end up with torn drywall, adhesive that refuses to budge, or lingering bits of paper that prevent smooth painting.
There’s also the question of wall damage. If you don’t know how to test for adhesive types or you start scraping too aggressively, it’s easy to gouge the wall or pull off the top layer of drywall paper. Fixing that damage adds time and money.
Another risk is the mess. DIY wallpaper removal is often messy, with damp strips of paper sticking to everything and adhesive residue covering the floor. Without proper preparation and protective coverings, cleanup becomes another burden.
Wallpaper Removal DIY vs Pro Cost
Budget is usually the deciding factor for most homeowners. If you’re only dealing with one accent wall or a small room, wallpaper removal DIY might make sense. But if you’re renovating an entire home or planning to repaint soon, professional wall removal becomes more cost-effective when you consider time, tools, and potential repairs.
Hiring a professional to remove wallpaper generally costs between $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job. This typically includes removal, cleanup, and wall prep. DIY costs vary but usually involve purchasing a steamer (or renting one), scrapers, solution, drop cloths, and patching materials, which can add up quickly.
When calculating wallpaper removal DIY vs pro cost, also factor in how much your time is worth. A homeowner might spend 10 hours removing wallpaper that a pro could finish in 2–3.
Should I Remove Wallpaper Myself?
Ask yourself a few key questions:
- How old is the wallpaper?
- Was it applied over primed or unprimed drywall?
- Is there more than one layer?
- Do I have the right tools and time?
If the wallpaper is newer, applied correctly, and covers a small area, you might be a good candidate for a DIY project. But if the wallpaper is dated, layered, or glued directly to drywall, it’s safer to hire a professional to remove wallpaper.
Some homeowners start with DIY, only to realize halfway through that they’re in over their heads. At that point, bringing in a pro might mean correcting mistakes on top of the original job.
Why Hire a Professional to Remove Wallpaper
If you want smooth, paint-ready walls with minimal fuss, hiring a professional to remove wallpaper is the smart choice. Pros come equipped not just with steamers and scrapers, but also with the know-how to test glue types, repair damage on the spot, and prepare the surface properly.
Professional wall removal services also often include optional upgrades like skim coating or priming the wall for future painting. This is particularly helpful if your ultimate goal is a flawless, fresh finish.
Homeowners preparing to sell their house or stage a property for showings typically opt for professional wall removal because time is of the essence and results matter.
Making the Smart Call for Your Home
Every home is different, and so is every project. In some cases, it makes perfect sense to roll up your sleeves and tackle wallpaper removal yourself. But if you value your time, want guaranteed results, and hope to avoid surprises behind that floral wallpaper from the ’70s, professional wall removal is the better bet.
Ripping It Off or Leaving It to the Pros?
Peeling back old wallpaper can feel like a fresh start for any room. But how you get there matters. Weighing the pros and cons of professional wall removal versus DIY helps you make a confident, informed decision that fits your home, budget, and timeline. Whether you choose to do it yourself or bring in a crew, the key is to plan carefully and know what you’re getting into before the first strip comes off.
Looking for professionals who can do wallpaper removal? Let Queen City Painting, a Charlotte painting company, help you out. Call us at 704-996-9266 or contact us online for a free quote today!