When I moved into my apartment I used 2-way tape to hang up pictures on the walls. Now 3 years later when I want to move out they won't come off without taking off the paint and a piece of drywall. The package said it would not wreck walls (I wish I had kept the receipt and package)! Is there any substance to remove the tape without the wall?
COMMUNITY FORUM
Hi 1stHome,
Depending on what's hanging, (I don't know if the picture, or whatever, is still hanging, or if you just have 'hooks' left to remove), you can consider using a hair dryer and a single-edge razor blade. After that, try some Skin So Soft on a cotton ball to remove any residue. Try all this on a piece of tape that's NOT as conspicious as the others (like in a corner or on a shaded wall.) You may end up having to prime (yes, at least prime the spots) and paint the wall anyways because of the 'discolorations' over time. The wall may have faded.
Use Thin Spackle to 'patch' the spots where you removed the paint and/or paper from the drywall. This is a whole, different job (probably requiring its own post.)
My best to ya and hope this helps.
Jay J -Moderator
Using a hair dryer is a good idea; it melts the glue on the tape so that it is easier to remove. Or use an clothes iron with a sheet of paper between the iron and the tape: anything to warm the glue up so that it is easier to remove.
You can also use mineral spirits, lighter fluid, or one of two products called "Goo-Gone" or "Goof Off" that chemically dissolves the tape glue so as to make it easier to remove, as well.
