Can you…?
Do I need to remove wallpaper before plastering?
Quick answer
Yes. Wallpaper should be stripped off before plastering, because plaster won't bond reliably to paper — it can pull away as the paper lifts. Once it's off, we prepare the wall underneath so the fresh skim keys properly and lasts.
In more detail
It's tempting to plaster over wallpaper, but the paper becomes the weak layer: as it absorbs moisture and lifts, it can take the new plaster with it, causing bubbling and cracking.
Stripping the paper back to a sound wall, then preparing or sealing that surface, gives the skim something solid to grip. It's a bit more work up front for a far better, longer-lasting finish.
If you'd rather, we can include stripping and preparation as part of the job — just mention it when we quote.
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