Mark Fraser replies: If the wallpaper is cloth-based, grab a corner and simply pull it off. Then using a scraper and water, wash off any residual glue.
The best way to remove paper coverings is to soak the entire area using a water-filled plant spray or paint roller, starting from the ceiling and working down to the skirting. Leave for about 20 minutes to allow the water to penetrate through to the adhesive beneath, then using a scraper, remove the paper from the wall. Cover the floor with plastic or cloth sheets as this is a messy process.
With vinyl wallpaper, score with a scraper every 60 to 90cm before you soak, taking care not to damage the wall underneath. With some vinyl coverings, the outer plastic surface may come away first, leaving the backing paper intact. If so, repeat the soak-and-scrape process.
Two home-brew ideas for wallpaper removal solvent: add one part fabric softener to three parts water or equal parts water and vinegar.
I own an apartment where the living room window looks out on to a wonderful view of hills. How would I go about enlarging it?
Tania Cha replies: This is not an easy operation and doesn't come cheap, but the rewards can be enormous. Not only will you create a bigger, better view, but you will also increase the natural light.