Why You Should Always Wear a Mask When Removing Old Wallpaper

There are few home improvement projects as exciting as interior painting! However, painting is a process with multiple steps, many of which need to be completed before the paint even hits the walls! One of these steps is the removal of old wallpaper. While it might seem like a simple task, though, it can prove challenging – plus, you’ll need to be sure you’re taking the proper safety precautions before getting started, which includes wearing a mask. Here’s what you need to know.

Protect Yourself While Removing Old Wallpaper

If you’re planning to remove your wallpaper yourself, there are a few supplies you’ll need to gather beforehand – mainly, whatever tools will be needed to physically remove the wallpaper, like a scraper, steamer, or solvent solution. That said, one additional piece of equipment you’ll want to be sure you’re purchasing is a face mask, to prevent you from breathing in any harmful particles, debris, or fumes that might be freed from the wallpaper. This is especially necessary if you’re sensitive to dust or other allergens. Likewise, be sure the area you’re working in is properly ventilated.  

You should also buy some form of eye protection; a simple pair of safety goggles can do the trick. Likewise, a pair of gloves will go a long way. Plus, if you’re planning to handle all of the painting yourself, it’s in your best interest to pick up all of these supplies anyway – you’re going to need them!

Other Tips for Ensuring a Safe Wallpaper Removal Process

Wearing a mask is certainly one of the best ways to protect yourself while removing old wallpaper, but beyond that, there are a few other things to keep in mind that’ll ensure a smooth process:

• Ensure all furniture is moved or covered and all valuables are put away; painting is a messy process, and you wouldn’t want to ruin or damage anything in your home.
• Go about your wallpaper removal in a safe and consistent manner; start in a corner where it’s easiest to peel layers back. This can show you how many layers are present and how they can effectively be removed.
• Keep all children and household pets separated from your painting zones; they likely won’t be wearing masks or goggles!

At the end of the day, if you still have doubts about any aspect of wallpaper removal, you shouldn’t hesitate to contact a team of professionals. They can ensure the job is done correctly, quickly, and safely, and more importantly, they’ll be sure that when it comes time to paint, your walls are as ready as they can be!

About Platinum Painting

Here at Platinum Painting, we’ve helped countless home and business owners across DFW over the last 15 years, and we’d love to help you with your upcoming painting project! We proudly offer a wide range of interior and exterior painting services, as well as specialty services including wallpaper removal. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to contact us to schedule a FREE in-home estimate, you can reach us online or call us today for more information. 

Tarrant County Telephone: (817) 697-2726.

Dallas/Denton/Collin County Telephone: (817) 993-4095.