How to Remove Wallpaper With a Heat Gun

Removing wallpaper with a heat gun can be an effective method, especially for stubborn wallpaper that's been up for a long time or installed with strong adhesives. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you remove wallpaper using a heat gun:

Materials and Tools:

- Heat gun

- Scraper

- Putty knife

- Spray bottle filled with warm water

- Safety glasses

- Gloves

- Drop cloth

Preparation:

1. Safety Precautions: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris and the heat from the heat gun.

Steps:

1. Loosen the wallpaper: Start by testing a small area to ensure the heat gun doesn't damage your wall's surface. Use the heat gun to apply heat to a section of the wallpaper. Hold the heat gun about 6 inches away from the wallpaper and move it in a circular motion.

2. Score the wallpaper: Use a scoring tool or the tip of a putty knife to make small holes or slits in the wallpaper. This helps the steam and heat penetrate the wallpaper and adhesive more effectively.

3. Apply warm water: Spray the scored area with warm water using the spray bottle. This helps loosen the adhesive.

4. Remove wallpaper: Apply heat again using the heat gun. You should start seeing the wallpaper loosen up. Use a scraper to gently lift and remove the wallpaper. If you encounter stubborn areas, reapply heat and water.

5. Remove adhesive residue: Once you've removed most of the wallpaper, there might still be some adhesive residue left on the wall. Use the putty knife to scrape off any remaining adhesive. You can also use a wallpaper stripper or adhesive remover to help dissolve the adhesive.

6. Clean the wall: Wipe the wall with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue. Allow the wall to dry completely before redecorating.

Tips:

- Start with a small area and gradually move to larger sections as you get more comfortable with the process.

- Be patient, as removing wallpaper can be a time-consuming task.

- If the wallpaper is particularly stubborn, you might need to use a stronger wallpaper stripper or adhesive remover.

- Avoid overheating the heat gun, as it could damage your wall's surface.

- Be careful not to apply too much water, as it could damage the wall's drywall or plaster.

Remember, if the wallpaper is old or if the walls have been painted over, using a heat gun might not be the best method to remove it. It's always a good idea to test a small area first and consider alternative methods if the heat gun isn't effective or causes damage.