HOW TO REMOVE EXCESS GLUE FROM JOINTS?
When it comes to putting up wallpaper, one of the most important, and sometimes also the most difficult aspects, is applying the right amount of adhesive. It is about using enough so that the wallpaper sticks perfectly to the wall, but without overflowing at the edges. However, sometimes it is not calculated well and there is no choice but to remove the excess glue from the joints.
Although it may not be complicated, it is important to be very careful, especially with certain types of wallpaper. And it is also advisable to do it immediately. If the excess glue from the joints dries, it will not only be more complicated to remove, but it could also damage the paper in the process.
Remove the excess glue from the joints step by step
The adhesive for wallpapering has the advantage of slow drying. This means there is time to remove the excess glue from the seams. Even so, it is best not to wait and to remove the excess once the strip of paper is placed, before putting on the next one.
Doing it is simple, but it is advisable to take some precautions, since not all papers are the same. When they can withstand moisture without problems, it is ideal to use a damp cloth to remove the excess glue from the joints. It is important that it does not shed lint. If there isn't one on hand, a well-wrung sponge can work.
Another recommendation is to moisten them only in water. Removing the excess glue from the joints when it is still wet requires nothing more. If any solvent product is used, it can damage the paper.
As for the technique, the cloth should be passed with great care, ensuring to drag the glue out of the strip if the next one has not yet been placed. After each use, the cloth or sponge must be rinsed well before repeating the process. If this is not done, stains could be caused by the adhesive that is intended to be removed.
If excess glue from the joints appears between already placed strips, it is not advisable to drag the cloth or sponge. In that case, what should be done is to remove the adhesive by tapping gently so that the cloth absorbs it. Then, simply dry the surface using the same procedure.
This last method of removing excess glue from the joints is also suitable for papers that do not withstand moisture. To remove the protruding adhesive, a dry and highly absorbent paper should be used, applying it with gentle taps to avoid spreading it over the surface.
Why is it advisable to remove the glue as soon as possible?
The excess of glue from the joints can cause the finish to be imperfect once the wallpaper is applied. Additionally, there is a possibility that once dry, it may be perceived as shine on the edges. But that is just one of the reasons to remove any overflow immediately.
The other is that not all papers can be removed later. If they are moisture-resistant papers, the excess glue from the joints can be removed later by moistening it a little. But with other types of papers, this cannot be done. And, in any case, it is also not recommended, since trying to remove it can unintentionally lift the joint.
Removing the excess glue from the joints while it is still wet only takes a few seconds. In return, the wallpaper will be perfectly placed and free of stains or any residue.
At Al&Mabi we offer you wallpapers in countless designs, so you can dress your home to your liking. But remember that installation is important to achieve a perfect finish. Keep our tips in mind and the result will be spectacular.
