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Whatever surface it is that you plan to redecorate, correct preparation is vital to obtaining a quality finish. If the room that you wish to redecorate currently has wallpaper on plasterboard walls (eg. GIB), and you aim to paint the walls or put up new wallpaper, then the best practice method would be to strip off the old wallpaper first. Restore the plasterboard to a smooth, sound surface before you paint or reapply wallpaper.
Remove Wallpaper
First, roll a paper tiger over the wallpaper surface. This is a small hand held device with plastic `teeth` that will puncture the wallpaper. Now apply a wallpaper stripping solution according to the directions on the packaging. The holes punched by the paper tiger will allow the stripping solution to penetrate into the wallpaper adhesive. This will help to soften the adhesive.
Use a broad blade scraper and carefully scrape the wallpaper off. Make sure that you also remove the backing paper of the wallpaper but try not to damage the plasterboard.
You can use a wallpaper steamer to help you. (Picture right.) It will keep the surface area damp and warm and this makes it easier to remove the wallpaper. |
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Repair Holes & Dents
Now you need to repair any holes made in the wall. The wall needs to be a smooth, even surface before you paint it or lay new wallpaper. You can fill minor holes and dents with a suitable filler. If the holes are 3mm or more deep, then you need to pack them out first or use fibre tape and a finishing compound. (GIB repair products are available from your local store.)
Acrylic Sealer Undercoat
Apply an acrylic sealer undercoat.
After this, apply a skim coat. One option as a skim coat is to use Winstone Wallboards Gib Plus 4, this is a premixed plaster coat, available in different quantities. Please follow the manufacturers instructions on the packaging.
Sand the skim coat smooth and wipe off all loose dust particles.
Apply the acrylic sealer undercoat again.
Paint or Wallpaper
You should now be ready to paint or hang your new wallpaper. Follow the instructions provided with your wallpaper rolls and comply with the suggested method.
If you choose to paint, you will need to use a paint finish that is appropriate for that room. A matt finish paint is suitable for living and bedroom areas whereas a semi-gloss or gloss finish is more hardwearing and therefore these are appropriate for bathrooms and kitchens. Dulux Aquanamel is a water based enamel paint and is highly recommended for bathrooms, laundries and kitchens. |
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