Wallpaper Scraper and How to Choose the Right Model?

Wallpaper scrapers are a tool used for removing wallpaper from walls. They come in manual and electric versions, and are used to scrape away the wallpaper adhesive from the wall. The scraper is usually a metal blade attached to a handle, which is used to scrape the walls to remove the old wallpaper. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about these handy tools.

Painters’ spatulas and shear scrapers are types of scrapers that are commonly used in the painting and decorating industry. These tools are designed to remove paint (this guide explains how), wallpaper, and other materials from surfaces, as well as to smooth out rough spots and imperfections. They are made of high-quality steel and come equipped with sharp blades that are suitable for a variety of scraping and smoothing work.

Choosing the Right Wallpaper Scraper Model

When it comes to wallpaper scrapers, there are two main types available: manual and electronic. Here are some key differences between the two:

Manual Scrapers:

• Uses a blade to scrape away wallpaper and adhesive
• Ideal for small areas or corners
• Requires more arm strength and can cause fatigue
• Recommended for textured or soft wallpaper
• Minimizes the potential for damaging walls or gouging
• Available in different blade widths and handle angles to suit different uses

Electronic Scrapers:

• Uses a roller or scraper head to lift wallpaper and residue away
• Ideal for larger areas or whole rooms
• Minimizes arm fatigue and reduces resistance
• Supports preset scraping settings for optimum removal
• Eliminates the need for additional tools like wallpaper removers
• Suitable for stubborn adhesive and residue removal

Features to Look For

No matter which type of scraper you choose, there are some key features to look for to ensure you get the best results:

• Wide blade or roller head to cover more surface area
• Rounded blade or scraper head to minimize the potential for damaging walls or gouging
• Unique handle design to support comfortable grip and minimize arm fatigue
• Honed blade or scraper head for optimum scraping action
• Soft blade or scraper head to minimize resistance and reduce the potential for damaging walls or gouging
• Resistance to adhesive and stubborn residue removal
• Minimizing the potential for damaging walls or gouging
• Suitable for removing wallpaper (here’s how to) borders and seams
• Minimizes the potential for leaving behind residue

Getting the Job Done: Using Your Wallpaper Scraper

Before you begin scraping, it’s important to prepare the wall properly. Here’s what you need to do:

• Strip off any old wallpaper remnants and carrier material.
• Soak the wall with a warm solution of liquid or spiked rollers to soften the paste.
• Follow the instructions on the manual to ensure you’re using the right solution and soaking period.
• Take advantage of the soaking period to remove any stubbornly refusing wallpaper remnants.

Using the Scraper

Now that you’ve prepared the wall, it’s time to use your scraper. Here’s how:

• Hold the scraper with the blade at a short angle to the wall.
• Push the scraper carefully along the wall, using the handle attached to the knoblike scraper.
• Scrape the wallpaper off in short, sharp movements.
• Work in small sections, and take your time to ensure you’re getting all the wallpaper off.
• Be careful not to damage the wall structure while scraping.

Removing Tough Wallpaper

If you’re dealing with thicker wallpaper or wallpaper that’s been applied for a longer period, you may need to use solvents or steam to penetrate the adhesive layer. Here’s how:

• Soak the wallpaper with warm solvents or steam to enable the liquid to penetrate the layer.
• Use your scraper to remove the wallpaper carefully.
• Be aware that using solvents or steam decreases the quality of the wall structure and increases the danger of damage.

Dealing with Edges and Corners

Removing wallpaper from edges and corners can be tricky. Here’s how to do it:

• Use a smaller scraper to work on the edges and corners.
• Hold the scraper at a sharp angle to the wall to get into tight spaces.
• Use your fingers to feel for any wallpaper that’s left behind.
• Use the scraper to remove any remaining wallpaper.

Finishing Up

Once you’ve removed all the wallpaper, it’s time to finish up. Here’s what you need to do:

• Clean up any remaining wallpaper scraps and debris.
• Check the wall for any damage that may have occurred during the scraping process.
• If necessary, repair any damage before applying new wallpaper or paint (here’s how to choose).

Conclusion

So there you have it- everything you need to know about wallpaper scrapers and how to use them. 

As with any tool, it’s important to know what you’re doing before you get started. So don’t be afraid to give it a try and enjoy the DIY experience!

I'm Joost Nusselder, the founder of Tools Doctor, content marketer, and dad. I love trying out new equipment, and together with my team I've been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with tools & crafting tips.