A Message from 1981: The Unexpected Discovery Behind a Wallpaper Job in Clondalkin
There’s something thrilling about peeling back old wallpaper. Sometimes it’s just glue and dust. But sometimes… you uncover history.
In a recent job in Clondalkin, I discovered a message beneath layers of wallpaper — handwritten, dated 1981. That moment turned a regular workday into a story worth sharing.
The Discovery – “Prepared by F. Brereton, 1981
As I stripped the old wallpaper, something caught my eye: faint pencil lines beneath brittle paper. I paused. There it was — a box sketched by hand, signed “Prepared by F. Brereton, 1981”.
This wasn’t just a wall. It was a time capsule. Someone — a fellow tradesman? a homeowner? — left a mark nearly half a century ago.
The Process – What It Takes to Do It Right
Wallpaper removal isn’t just peeling — it’s patience, the right tools, and a bit of respect for what’s beneath.
In this case, I used a sprayer to soften the adhesive…
…followed by careful scraping, revealing not one, but two old wallpapers layered together.
Pro Tips:
Use warm water mixed with a bit of dish soap or wallpaper stripper.
• Let it soak for at least 10–15 minutes before scraping.
• Score the wallpaper lightly if it’s vinyl-based — it helps the moisture reach the glue.
• Work top-down in sections — and always have extra blades.
Wallpapering in Ireland: Then vs. Now
In Irish homes, wallpaper isn’t just decoration — it tells stories. Generations layer over each other. From floral prints in the 60s to vertical stripes in the 80s and minimalist textures today, wallpaper has evolved — but its charm hasn’t faded.
Why This Matters – The Emotional Value of Walls
For homeowners: Little surprises like this add character. For buyers: Homes with stories feel more lived-in, more loved. For professionals: Sharing stories like this creates connection. We’re not just transforming spaces — we’re uncovering legacies.
So… What’s Behind Your Wallpaper?
Somewhere out there, F. Brereton might be smiling — knowing someone found his signature and paused to remember.
If your walls are hiding history — or simply need a fresh chapter — maybe it’s time to strip things down and start again.
Providing a Professional Painting services in Dublin and Surrounding Counties
Let’s uncover your home’s story. to find out how wallpapering can breathe life back into your space.
Providing a Professional Painting services in Dublin and Surrounding Counties