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A handyperson near you can take on the task of wallpaper removal. As a bonus, they can also take care of any needed wall repairs afterward and other odd jobs around the house. If you have high ceilings, ask whether they own ladders or scaffolding to do the job or will need to rent equipment.

You can determine your wall type through tactile and visual tests. Start by checking the surface by inserting a thumbtack, feeling the texture, tapping to listen for a hollow sound, and examining cut edges under outlet covers. Drywall feels soft with a hollow sound, while plaster is hard and solid. These checks are especially useful in older homes where plaster is more common.

In many cases, you can paint over wallpaper, although it’s a better idea to remove it altogether. Try steaming the paper first to see if it easily comes off. Painting over it may be a viable option if it’s stuck on and will only come off in pieces. Wash the walls first and prime them with an oil- or shellac-based primer for the best results.

Wallpaper installation costs between $800 and $4,000. The total price depends on the price per roll, room size, wallpaper material, and required repairs. More complex projects involving luxurious wallpaper brands like De Gournay, Calico, and Pierre Frey result in higher installation rates due to the extra work required.

After removing wallpaper, you can dispose of small amounts in your household trash. However, suppose you are removing wallpaper from your entire home. In that case, you’ll need to contact a waste removal service, rent a dumpster, or arrange a special pick-up with your municipality’s waste service. Wallpaper cannot be recycled, so it is important to keep it separate from the recycling stream to comply with local waste guidelines.