Removing outdated wallpaper is a quick way to modernize a home, but costs can vary. In Houston, prices range from $1.20 to $4.00 per square foot, depending on factors like surface area, wallpaper type, and wall condition. This guide provides insights for contractors and trade professionals to accurately estimate costs and avoid overestimating.
1. Surface Area
The primary cost driver is wall square footage. Labor time, disposal fees, and surface prep scale with size. Use tools to calculate area accurately.
2. Wallpaper Type
• Modern strippable vinyl reduces labor hours
• Traditional paper with adhesive requires more effort
• Multi-layer installations need additional passes
3. Wall Condition
Removing wallpaper may reveal drywall damage. Include patching, sanding, and priming in estimates.
4. Access and Logistics
Consider access constraints like tight spaces or high ceilings, which can affect crew size and time.
Based on recent projects, expect:
• $1.20 – $1.75 per sq ft for basic vinyl removal
• $1.75 – $2.50 per sq ft for paper with adhesive
• $2.50 – $4.00 per sq ft for multi-layer or textured walls
Example: A 12 ft × 14 ft room with 8 ft ceilings equals 448 sq ft. At $1.90 per sq ft, removal costs about $850. Include primer and repairs for a complete estimate.
Labor
• 60-75% of total cost
• Skilled crew hours for removal and cleanup
Materials & Supplies
• 15-25% of total cost
• Includes tools and disposal bags
Overhead & Profit
• 10-15% of total cost
• Covers insurance and company margin
1. Use mobile apps for accurate measurements.
2. Select wallpaper type to adjust labor factors.
3. Note wall conditions to auto-add repair tasks.
4. Receive a detailed proposal instantly.
• Remove outlet covers yourself to save time.
• Schedule removal before flooring install.
• Combine removal and repainting to reduce fees.
• Lock in material prices to avoid fluctuations.
DIY may seem cheaper, but hidden costs add up:
• Rental fees
• Extra materials for repairs
• Disposal surcharges
• Personal time valued at $30/hour
Professionals can complete the job faster and more efficiently.
Consider additional scopes:
• Skim coating for a smooth finish
• Accent wall upgrades
• New trim profiles
Bundling can reduce project timelines by up to 25%.
Use mobile estimators for precise costs. Speak room details, select conditions, and receive a firm price instantly. Ready to proceed? Convert to a work order and schedule trade partners automatically.
Unlike spreadsheets, professional tools update labor rates and material pricing specific to the Houston market. Benefits include:
• Real-time voice capture
• AI blueprint takeoffs
• Instant PDF quotes
• Integrated invoicing
Join professionals who have simplified estimating with advanced tools. Visit CountBricks.com to start your free trial today.
The Wilson family faced varied bids for wallpaper removal. Their contractor used advanced tools for clarity.
1. Blueprint upload: AI traced 2,400 sq ft in seconds.
2. Voice notes: Converted into scoped tasks automatically.
3. Instant estimate: Provided a detailed $7,980 quote.
4. Change order control: Quickly adjusted for additional work.
• Batch similar rooms to save time.
• Use humidity sensors to optimize chemical use.
• Capture photo evidence for documentation.
Contractors can streamline bids by creating a free account. Homeowners can request vetted pros through CountBricks.com. Plan with transparent costs backed by real data.
