In the past several years, wallpaper has had a major resurgence in home decor. With trends increasingly favoring vintage-inspired, eclectic, personality-filled designs, it’s no surprise that many homeowners are choosing to use wallpaper to make a statement.
While it’s true that wallpaper can instantly transform a room, it can lose its effect if it’s installed incorrectly. If you’re considering wallpaper installation but have questions about how to avoid common pitfalls and ensure your wallpaper looks professional, keep reading to find the answers you’re been looking for.
1. How Do You Prepare for Wallpaper Installation?
Proper preparation is essential for creating a polished, long-lasting finish. The first step is to clean the walls to remove old paint, dust, debris, and dirt. After that, you’ll need to repair cracks and holes in the wall, sanding them down to create a smooth surface. Certain types of wallpaper require you to prime the wall before application. If you do apply primer, allow it to fully dry before beginning the wallpaper installation process.
2. Is Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper Reliable?
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is an easier-to-apply alternative to traditional wallpaper. Rather than relying on brushes and paste, you can simply apply it to the wall like a giant sticker. However, its reliability often depends on the application techniques used.
The results are often not as durable as those of traditional wallpaper, especially with lower-quality wallpaper. It can bubble up or peel over time, affecting aesthetics. Because of this, peel-and-stick wallpaper is best used for accent walls, rentals, and other places you may not want a permanent solution.
3. Do I Need Lining Wallpaper?
Lining wallpaper is applied underneath the regular wallpaper. Its purpose is to smooth out small bumps, hide flaws, reduce shrinkage, and help the wallpaper adhere better. While you don’t absolutely need it, it’s recommended for use on textured or uneven surfaces to create a more even finish.
4. What Is the Best Type of Wallpaper Paste?
There are many types of wallpaper paste out there, including pre-mixed, powder, paste-the-wall, and paste-the-paper, not to mention the different formulations and consistencies. There’s no singular best type for every situation; it depends on the type of wallpaper and your desired results. Check the wallpaper manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations regarding what type of paste to use.
5. What Does it Mean to “Book” Wallpaper?
When you first remove wallpaper from the roll, it has a tendency to curl up. If you proceed with wallpaper installation without correcting this tendency, you risk the wallpaper peeling up over time, bubbling, and wrinkling over time.
“Booking” the wallpaper is a way to prevent this by allowing the paper to relax and soften. After activating or applying the paste, fold the pasted ends together without creasing the folds. Let it rest for however long the manufacturer recommends, giving the adhesive time to penetrate. After that, you can unfold the wallpaper, ensure the edges are nice and smooth, and apply it to the wall.
6. How Long Does Wallpaper Take to Dry?
Depending on the type of wallpaper and the environmental conditions, wallpaper can take anywhere from 12 to 48 hours to dry; however, it may be a couple of weeks before the adhesive fully sets. Humidity, room temperature, and wallpaper thickness can all influence the drying rate. It’s important to let the wallpaper fully dry before decorating the room, as wet wallpaper is much easier to accidentally damage.
7. How Can I Avoid Air Bubbles Under My Wallpaper?
Air bubbles are a common problem when it comes to DIY wallpaper installation. Even a single bubble can throw off the whole look, compromising your home’s aesthetics. To avoid them, make sure you start with a smooth, clean surface. Use the right type of paste for your wallpaper and apply it evenly. Once you’ve applied the wallpaper, use a wallpaper brush or smoothing tool to coax air bubbles to the edges before the paste has the chance to dry.
8. Can You Paint Over Wallpaper?
While it’s typically best to remove wallpaper before painting, it’s possible to paint over wallpaper if the paper is in good condition without rips, tears, bubbles, or holes. You’ll need to seal the seams before painting to create a smooth, flat surface and use a bonding primer to ensure long-lasting results.
Professional Wallpaper Installation by Brush Brothers Painting
The best way to ensure your wallpaper looks great for years to come is by seeking professional wallpaper installation services by the experts at Brush Brothers Painting. Our attention to detail and extensive experience ensures your vision becomes reality. Contact us today to get started.
