Wallpaper Woes

Posted by Kristin Abraham Aug 12, 2007

Another lesson learned but this is one I've wanted to learn for a long time so I dove head first into learning how to use drywall mud.

I went into this project thinking it would be an easywallpaper removal project, I was hopeful at least. But I did know that it is in my hometown which happened to have a certain man who did a lot of wallpapering in the 80's without properly sizing, painting or preparing the drywall. Yes, the wallpaper sticks very well but it doesn't come off easily.

Once again I began pulling paper and large strips of the top of the drywall came up as well. This leaves a cardboard type surface which can buckle when wet (as cardboard does) and a lot of fluid is used to remove the paper, paste and then to prime and paint the walls. It's almost impossible to paint over this "ruined" wall without leaving tell tale signs of the damage.

So I was heartsick when I saw that once again there was going to be drywall damage. I decided, with the help of my assistant - my mom, that it was time to dive into the drywall mud and actually repair the wall for this client. And I've completed the first coat of drywall mud in the "holes" or imperfections and leveled them as much as possible. The wall dried over the weekend and tomorrow I go back to sand where necessary and possibly touch up a few more spots with drywall mud.

Surprisingly, using the drywall mud was pretty easy. I liken it to frosting a cake. I purchased a large "scraper" as that was what the store clerk recommended but I actually found I could control the smaller, 4-inch, ones better. If I had more experience I think the large one would be a god send though.

I purchased premixed drywall mud which was wonderful. I just scooped it up and spread it on the wall and then smoothed it out with the scraper. The key is to spread it very thinly and to try to keep it very even and very level so there isn't much, if any, sanding required.

The mud stays wet for a few minutes so you have time to work, but overworking can create problems as well. And going back to it after its partially set is disastrous. (Don't ask how I know this).

The best part is that the drywall mud is very inexpensive and goes a long way. So if you happen to run across this problem when removing wallpaper, give the drywall mud a try. If all else fails you can call in the experts but I'm guessing that you won't have to. Good luck!