5 Common Wallpaper Stripping Mistakes You’ll Avoid by Hiring an Expert

June 25, 2025

Let’s be honest: stripping wallpaper sounds simple—until you try doing it yourself. What starts off as a weekend DIY project often turns into a messy, frustrating battle with glue, paper, and damaged walls. If you’re considering tackling it alone, it’s worth knowing what can go wrong. At Recommended Tradesmen, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you avoid the biggest pitfalls by choosing professional wallpaper stripping in Purley.

Here are 5 common wallpaper stripping mistakes you’ll avoid by hiring an expert—plus why we’re the right team for the job.

Damaging the Wall Surface

This is the most common mistake we see. When wallpaper doesn’t come off easily, many people start scraping harder—or worse, using knives or metal tools that gouge the wall. The result? Cracked plaster, torn drywall, and extra costs in repairs before you can even think about repainting or redecorating.

Our solution: Our professionals use the right tools and techniques to loosen wallpaper without harming the surface underneath. That means no hidden damage, no extra costs, and a wall that’s ready for a fresh finish.

Not Identifying the Wallpaper Type First

Did you know there are different types of wallpaper, and they each need a different removal approach? Vinyl wallpaper, for example, has a plastic top layer that doesn’t absorb water—so spraying it won’t help. Some wallpapers have been painted over, or applied directly to bare plaster. These need special attention.

Our approach: We identify what we’re dealing with before we start. This lets us tailor the removal process and avoid unnecessary damage or delays. That’s what you get when you hire professional wallpaper stripping in Purley—real experience and expertise.

Skipping Surface Preparation

Many DIYers jump straight into removal without prepping the room. They don’t protect floors, furniture, or electrical outlets. Wallpaper removal is a wet and sticky job. Without prep, you could end up with soggy carpets, stained floors, or worse—electrical hazards.

How we work: At Recommended Tradesmen, we protect your space before we start. That means plastic sheeting, proper ventilation, and total respect for your home. We treat every job, big or small, with the same care and professionalism.

Using the Wrong Tools or Products

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to wallpaper stripping. Some people try using steamers on delicate walls or soak paper with too much water, leading to bubbling and cracking. Others use harsh chemicals that leave residue behind.

What we do: We use high-quality, safe products and professional-grade tools. That includes scoring tools, steamers, and eco-friendly solvents where needed. Our team knows when to be gentle and when to be firm, based on years of experience.

Leaving Behind Glue and Residue

Even if you manage to remove all the paper, the job isn’t over. If glue residue is left on the wall, it can ruin the finish of new paint or cause problems when applying new wallpaper. You’d be surprised how often this step is missed.

Our finish: We clean, sand, and prep the surface so it’s ready for whatever comes next—whether that’s painting, decorating, or applying a new wall covering. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t leave mess behind.

Why Choose Recommended Tradesmen?

At Recommended Tradesmen, we don’t just do wallpaper removal—we specialise in general painting and decorating services as well. So once the old wallpaper’s gone, we can transform your space with a fresh new look.

Here’s why customers across Purley trust us:

Fantastic customer service: We listen, communicate clearly, and always put your needs first.
Competitive prices: We keep our rates fair and transparent. No hidden fees.
High-quality products: We use only trusted brands for long-lasting results.
Reliable & trustworthy: We show up on time, do what we say, and respect your home.
No job too big or small: Whether it’s one room or a full house, we’re ready.
Wide range of services: From wallpaper stripping to full redecorating, we’ve got you covered.

We’re proud to offer professional wallpaper stripping in Purley with the attention to detail and craftsmanship your home deserves.

Ready to Ditch the Wallpaper? Let’s Talk

DIY can be tempting, but when it comes to wallpaper removal, the risks often outweigh the rewards. Save yourself the time, mess, and stress by hiring experts who’ll do the job right the first time.

Whether you’re updating one wall or planning a full home makeover, Recommended Tradesmen is your local go-to for professional wallpaper stripping in Purley—and all your painting and decorating needs.