I am a new first time home-owner and didn't like the wallpaper in a few of the rooms, so I bought a steamer(because that's what everyone suggested for removing wallpaper). I was told that it isn't an easy process and have found that out, but I feel like I am damaging the sheetrock behind the wallpaper and am creating more of a headache to paint the walls later. Would painting over the wallpaper be a better route to go? And if so, will a skim coat of joint compound cover up the damage i have already done well enough?

 

Welcome to the forums Rick!

Generally it's not a good idea to paint over wallpaper. If the wallpaper ever looses it's bond or otherwise needs to be removed later - the paint will complicate the removal. If you do paint the wallpaper it's best to use an oil base primer first.

Stripping wallpaper is rarely fun or easy IMO steamers don't help much What does help is to score the wallpaper so the moisture will get to the backing. You can either use a utility knife [be careful not to cut too deep] or buy a little gadget that has blades set at a predetermined depth to run over the wall. This 'wheel' is sold most anywhere they sell wallpaper. Wallpaper is a lot easier to remove once the backing and adhesive gets wet.

Any adhesive that isn't removed and/or places where the drywall's gypsum is exposed needs to be coated with either Zinnser's Gardz or a solvent based primer so there won't be any issues with applying joint compound or your finish coat of latex paint.

Posting a few pics might get a few more suggestions - http://www.doityourself.com/forum/el...-pictures.html