If you’re considering redecorating and wondering, Do painters and decorators remove wallpaper?, the short answer is: yes, most professionals do. At Carlo Picasso Decorators, wallpaper stripping is an integral part of many of our projects—whether we’re preparing walls for painting, installing new wallpaper, or giving a space a complete refresh.
Removing wallpaper properly ensures a flawless finish, prolongs the life of your new décour, and protects your home’s surfaces. In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what’s involved, why it matters, and what you can expect from skilled professionals like us.
Do Painters and Decorators Remove Wallpaper as Part of Their Services?
In most cases, yes—painters and decorators remove wallpaper as part of the preparation process. It’s a crucial step when transitioning to paint or applying fresh wallpaper. At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we include wallpaper stripping in our service offering because we understand the impact of thorough prep work. Our team evaluates the wallpaper condition and wall surface before beginning, ensuring we use the safest and most efficient method.
Whether it’s a single room or a whole property, removing wallpaper sets the stage for smooth, high-quality decorating. If you’re hiring a professional, be sure to confirm this service is included in your quote, as some decorators treat it as a separate task.
What’s Involved in Stripping Wallpaper Professionally?
Step-by-Step: How Professionals Strip Wallpaper
At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we follow a tried-and-tested process:
- Assessment – We evaluate wallpaper type, wall condition, and adhesive strength.
- Preparation – We ensure that your furnitures are covered, floors are protected, and the rooms are ventilated.
- Scoring and soaking – Wallpaper is perforated, then soaked with a specialist solution or steam.
- Stripping – Using our professional tools, we gently strip wallpaper without damaging the plaster beneath.
- Clean-up – Residual glue is removed and the surface is washed down.
This process avoids mess and minimises damage, creating a clean slate for the next stage of decorating.
Tools We Use
- Steam wallpaper removers
- Scoring wheels
- Broad knives
- Specialist adhesive solvents
Proper equipment speeds up the job and ensures minimal disruption to your home.
Why Hire a Decorator to Remove Your Wallpaper?
Benefits vs. DIY
While DIY wallpaper stripping may seem like a money-saver, it often leads to wall damage, uneven surfaces, and a lot of frustration. A skilled painter-decorator professional brings experience, precision, and speed when stripping wallpapers. You also avoid unexpected issues like mould, damp, or stubborn adhesive that may not be visible until the wallpaper is removed.
Hiring professionals means you get:
- Expert care
- High-end tools
- Clean and even surfaces that is ready for decorating
When Do Decorators Recommend Removing vs. Painting Over Wallpaper?
You might wonder whether it’s easier to just paint over old wallpaper. While that’s occasionally possible, we rarely recommend it. Here’s why:
When to Remove:
- The wallpaper is textured or patterned
- It’s peeling or bubbling
- There are multiple layers
- You want a perfect paint finish
When Painting Over Works:
- Wallpaper is smooth, securely attached, and in excellent condition
- You’re on a tight timeline or budget
Even then, preparation is key. Our team seals the wallpaper with adhesive and applies a bonding primer to prevent bubbling or peeling later on.
Ultimately, it depends on the wall condition and your desired finish. But in most cases, painters and decorators remove wallpaper to ensure long-term quality.
Can You Hire a Painter and Decorator Just to Strip Wallpaper?
Yes, absolutely. At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we often take on wallpaper-only jobs. Whether you’re prepping for a future renovation or simply want a fresh start, our team can help.
Things to Consider:
- Minimum job size or call-out fees
- Whether you need further decorating work afterwards
- Timeframes and material access
We’re always happy to provide a personalised quote tailored to your needs—big or small.
Call Us Here: 0161 960 0104
Wallpaper Types We Commonly Strip
We’ve seen it all—from 70s-era woodchip to luxury designer wallpaper. Each material requires a different approach.
Common Types:
- Vinyl – Often requires steaming
- Textured/woodchip – Tough to strip; usually needs scoring
- Fabric-backed – Strong adhesive, solvent may be needed
- Foil or metallic – Delicate and often in older homes
Wallpaper removal methods vary by type, which is why working with a trained painter-decorator that are experts in wallpapers matters. Our knowledge prevents unnecessary wall damage and speeds up the process.
Explore our wallpapering and removal services
What to Expect After Wallpaper Is Stripped
Once the wallpaper is gone, our job isn’t over. We prepare the surface to ensure the next stage—painting or re-papering—goes perfectly.
Post-Removal Services:
- Residue removal
- Surface repairs and filling
- Sanding
- Sealing and priming
This attention to detail is what makes us stand out in Bury and the surrounding areas.
See our decorating transformations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do painters and decorators remove wallpaper before painting?
Yes, most professional decorators will remove or strip wallpaper before starting any painting work. It’s a vital part of surface preparation that ensures the new paint adheres smoothly and lasts longer. At Carlo Picasso Decorators, this process is handled with care to deliver a flawless, long-lasting finish.
How much does wallpaper removal cost in the UK?
The cost of wallpaper removal varies depending on several factors, including room size, wallpaper type, and the condition of the underlying walls. Prices typically range from £150 to £500 per room, but a personalised quote is the best way to get an accurate figure. At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we offer free quotes following a site visit or virtual assessment.
Is it better to strip wallpaper or paint over it?
Stripping wallpaper is almost always the better option for a clean, professional result. Painting over wallpaper can trap moisture, cause bubbling, and lead to peeling in the long term. Removing the wallpaper allows decorators to properly prepare the surface, ensuring better adhesion and durability.
Will removing wallpaper damage my walls?
If done incorrectly, wallpaper removal can damage plaster or drywall—but professionals know how to avoid this. At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we use the right tools and techniques to strip wallpaper safely and minimise disruption. Any minor imperfections are repaired as part of our preparation process to ensure a perfect final finish.
Conclusion
So, do painters and decorators remove wallpaper? Yes—and at Carlo Picasso Decorators, we do it thoroughly, cleanly, and with great care. Our team brings expertise, experience, and a reputation built on glowing reviews from happy clients. Whether you need a single room stripped or a full-home transformation, we’re here to help you create beautiful spaces that last.Get in touch with Carlo Picasso Decorators today to discuss your wallpaper removal and decorating needs.
