Removing adhesives from painted walls can be high risk. Unless you have removable wall decals, choose a safe method for their removal.
Vinyl wall stickers can be removed effectively with a method provided by EzineArticles. Do not rush the process. Work carefully and methodically. For vinyl adhesives a hairdryer can help when you direct the heat towards the edge of the poster or decal. Once the adhesive is warm to the touch, gently lift the decal starting at the edge. As you pull the decal away from the wall, begin heating the next section. Repeat the process until removal is complete. If any stick surface remains, use acetate or acetate based cleaning solution such as nail polish remover to clean the remainder of the surface. Removing decals can be a bit easier when you hold the vinyl next to the surface rather than pulling from a 90 degree angle. This will minimize the amount of breakage and make the job easier.
The most effective solution depends on material
DoItYourself.com provides a step by step solution for adhesive removal. The first step is identifying the adhesive used. Different materials require different approaches to obtain the best results. Adhesive marred walls can be the result of tape, decals, stickers and other products. Painting a wall without thoroughly cleaning it will result in peeling and a sloppy appearance. You should make sure your wall is thoroughly clean before applying a new coat of paint or going through final inspection with your landlord.
Place your hand on the adhesive and gently rub the surface. Does it feel hard or sticky? Strong adhesives such as Super Glue feel hard. Rubber cement is a soft glue and feels sticky. Decals and stickers leave a crusty flat surface that sometimes actually can lift the paint from the wall, especially if the last paint job was rushed.
Using a hair dryer on soft adhesive, try to push it off and roll it into a ball. Sometimes sticker and tape adhesive can be easily dissolved with baby oil applied with a sponge. Let it soak for 20 minutes and then remove the remainder with a sponge or paper towels. If paint has been removed, get some touch up paint that matches your walls. Most hardware stores can match your existing color. Try to avoid sanding your walls as that can create a larger mess than you want to deal with. Once your surface is clean and a touch up coat is applied to the damaged area, your wall should look immaculate.
Commercial solutions can help
Many commercial adhesive removal options are available that can be effective for multiple types of surfaces. GriotsGarage offers a multipurpose solution that removes adhesive residues from painted surfaces, plastics, furniture and more. Whatever method you choose, be careful and thorough. Your results will show your conscientious effort.
Photo credits (l to r): Wicker Paradise/Flickr; Melmai Wall Decals/Flickr
