How to Repair Drywall Damage Caused by Wallpaper Removal

It is impossible to avoid minor damage to drywall when you are removing wallpaper. Since wallpaper is glued to the drywall, removing the wallpaper will usually pull off bits of the drywall as well. After the wallpaper is completely removed, and the walls have been washed and cleaned to remove the glue, you will see little nicks and scrapes. Some of the nicks may be large. The drywall will have to be repaired before the wall can be painted.

Things You'll Need

• Waterproof latex primer
• Paintbrush
• Roller
• Joint compound
• Blade knife
• Fan
• 100-grit sandpaper

Instructions

1. Prime the wall with a waterproof latex primer. Apply the primer with a brush and roller and allow it to dry. It takes one hour to dry.

2. Apply a thin coat of joint compound to the damaged areas. Apply the compound with a blade broad knife. The knife should be 10 to 12 inches. The joint compound and knife may be purchased at the local hardware store or any major home supply stores. Place the compound on the edge of the knife and wipe it over the wall. The edge of the compound should extend a few inches beyond the damaged areas that are being repaired. The thickness should be no more than 1/16 inch.

3. Aim a fan at the patched areas. Allow four hours for drying time.

4. Lightly sand the patched areas with 100-grit sandpaper. The goal is to make the patched areas smooth and even with the drywall. Dust the drywall after sanding them.

5. Apply a second coat of joint compound. Apply the second coat very lightly. You are simply filling the little nicks that were not completely filled the first time around. Allow the second coat to dry and then lightly sand it.

References

• Ask The Builder: Drywall Repair