While there is usually no problem to remove wall decals from the surfaces where they have been installed, reality sometime turns out to be different than theory. This can be the case with wood paneling and other wood surfaces. It will depend on the strength of the adhesive and the varnish on which it sits whether or not the vinyl wall decal will damage the surface as it is removed.
Always proceed slowly as you remove the wall decal so you may prevent damaging large sections of the wood surface should the varnish come off with the decal. If this is the case, stop and try the 3 following methods…
Removal Methods
| Method #1 : Who would have thought mayonnaise could have such a great effect on walls? Here’s what you have to do : apply mayonnaise over all of the vinyl decals you want to remove and let it sit for a few minutes. Clean it off afterwards and try again to remove the decal, the mayonnaise should have helped to dissolve the glue. |
| Method #2 : Another way to diminish the glue’s effectiveness on the wood finish and facilitate the removal of the decal sticker is to use a hair dryer to blow warm air (use low temperature only) over the decal for several minutes. The heat will loosen the adhesive and prevent damage to the varnish although it may take a little while before it is effective.When using this method, there is a good chance that some sticky residue will be left on the wood but this is fairly easy to remove and should not be a concern. You may apply cooking oil to a cloth and scrub the surface repeatedly until the sticky residues come off. This may also take a little bit of time but it won’t damage the wood. |
| Method #3 : Use a steamer underneath the surface where the decal is applied and steam away. Do it a few times for a minute or so each time and wait half a minute in between. You don’t want to soak your wood too much but this may well work. Use a plastic knife to scrape the decal off. |
Preventing Damage
Of course, if you suspect there may be a problem before you start, you may preventively use these procedures. This way, you won’t be taking any unnecessary risks and your wood surface has more chance to remain intact during your Home Improvement activities.
We don’t recommend using razor blades to peel removable wall decals as there is always a risk of scratching the wood and making dents in it when using sharp instruments.
More Wall Quotes:
I’ve found that cheap wall decals often use glue that is coarser and harder to remove from surfaces, especially wood. I would only use fine matte finish and walls decals on wood.