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https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl DIY Forum >> Painting, Decorating & Tiling Questions >> ceiling paper https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl?num=1128973622 Message started by oldsparky on Oct 10^th, 2005, 8:47pm

Title: ceiling paper
Post by oldsparky on Oct 10^th, 2005, 8:47pm

advice please on how to remove old raised pattern ceiling paper that has about 4-6 coats of white emulsion applied over 15 years.
Don`t want to use a steamer in case plaster or plaster board is damaged.
Area to prep is 12ftx24ft.

Title: Re: ceiling paper
Post by hamilton on Oct 11^th, 2005, 6:07pm

I suppose you will have to resort to the old fashioned method mate. But first, it might be worth sticking a stripping knife under the paper and trying to strip it dry.

Sometimes when there is a build up of paint, it all goes very brittle and needs no water.

If not, score the paper, to break the paint film, (making sure you don't gauge the plaster underneath), and brush on some very hot water with a squirt of Fairy Liquid in it.

Give it ten minutes to have a good old soak, and if you think it needs it, do it again.

Then get out the trusty stripping knife, and away you go.

The worst bit is starting, it's very demoralising. :(

Title: Re: ceiling paper
Post by oldsparky on Oct 12^th, 2005, 10:52am

thanks Hamilton for ggod advice.
Looks like hard labour, hope the body can take it.

Title: Re: ceiling paper
Post by paintycait on Oct 15^th, 2005, 1:17am

You can also try Dif by Zinsser instead of fairy liquid, Google it it's a brilliant product, I've also found that fabric softener works very well at quickly breaking down the paste.
Cait

Title: Re: ceiling paper
Post by oldsparky on Oct 17^th, 2005, 9:30pm

Hamilton, you were spot on.
Ceiling paper removed easily by tearing off without damage to ceiling.
Underneath was lining paper ,this was wetted and removed without too much difficulty,it took along time though.
Whole job about 7 hours. I`m knackered
Thanks again

Title: Re: ceiling paper
Post by hamilton on Oct 17^th, 2005, 10:49pm

Do a few more Oldsparky, and you will have arms like Popeye. ;D