Decorating your home with wallpaper can transform the look and feel of a space. However, for wallpaper novices, the prospect of choosing and installing wallpaper can be daunting. Here is an in-depth guide on everything you need to know when considering wallpaper for your home.
Choosing Your Wallpaper
Choosing the right wallpaper is the most critical decision when considering wallpaper. With endless options for colors, patterns, textures, and materials, selecting wallpaper can be overwhelming. Here are some tips on finding the perfect wallpaper for your space:
Consider the Room and Purpose
- Think about the room you want to wallpaper and how it’s used. Is it a high-traffic area like a hallway or low-traffic like a formal dining room? Is it a space you want to make a statement or prefer a subtle backdrop? Match the wallpaper to the room’s purpose.
- For high-traffic spaces, choose durable wallpaper, like scrubbable or peel-and-stick. For formal areas, select a more delicate and ornate wallpaper.
Complement the Decor and Architecture
- Choose wallpaper that works with your existing decor. Look at furniture finishes, flooring, window treatments, etc. and select wallpaper that complements these elements.
- Consider the architectural details of the room. For example, play up the height with vertical stripes or draw the eye upward with whimsical clouds. Work with and enhance the space, not against it.
Mind the Lighting
- Lighting drastically impacts the look of wallpaper. View samples in both natural and artificial light to understand how the wallpaper patterns and colors change.
- Bold graphic prints and deeply saturated colors show best in bright, well-lit rooms. Subtle tones and textures are enhanced in dimmer, moody spaces.
Select a Style
- Wallpaper comes in endless styles. Determine which excites you. Do you prefer modern geometric patterns or traditional floral prints? Cityscapes or nature themes? Distressed textures or damasks? Select a style you love.
- If uncertain, consider a classic style like toile, ikat, or botanicals, as these designs withstand trends. Or go for a subtle tone-on-tone look.
Consider Scale and Repeat
- The scale refers to the size of the wallpaper print. Smaller scales get lost in bigger rooms, while larger scales might overwhelm a tiny powder room.
- The repeat is how often the pattern repeats horizontally and vertically. For a seamless look, ensure the pattern repeat is proportionate to the room.
Mind the Seams
- Matching up wallpaper seams takes skill. To avoid draws attention to seams, look for wallpapers with:
- All-over patterns
- Large-scale prints
- Irregular designs
- Seamless murals
- Solid color grasscloth or textured vinyls also hide seams well.
Order Samples
- Never select wallpaper solely from tiny online images. Always order samples first to view the color, scale, texture and quality.
- Order samples in different lighting or times of day to see color variations.
- Get at least 2-3 samples to compare or to test together before deciding.
Wallpaper Quantities
Once you’ve selected the perfect wallpaper, figuring out how much to purchase can be confusing. Here are some tips on calculating how much wallpaper you need:
- Consult the manufacturer: Wallpaper is sold in double rolls which are generally 20.5″ wide x 33′ long or 27″ wide x 33′ long. Check the manufacturer’s requirements for square footage coverage per double roll.
- Measure wall surface area: To determine wall square footage, measure the wall length and height. Exclude windows and doors. Multiply length x height for total surface area.
- Factor in matching and waste: Plan to buy about 10-15% extra wallpaper over the actual measured square footage. This allows for pattern matching and waste.
- Repeat the pattern: For patterned wallpaper, also account for the pattern repeat and add extra paper needed to match the design.
- Consider ceilings and edges: If wallpapering ceilings or wrapping edges, calculate this additional square footage.
- Buy all paper together: Don’t try to purchase wallpaper in phases. Dye lots and patterns change. Buy it all at once.
- Open rolls to check for defects: Unroll a bit of each wallpaper bolt in the store to check for damage, color consistency and pattern alignment.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations combined with your own measurements, and you’ll buy the perfect amount of wallpaper for your project.
Preparing Walls for Wallpaper
Applying wallpaper to flawed or damaged walls will show every imperfection. Proper wall preparation is key for a smooth installation. Here are tips for prepping walls for wallpaper:
Clean Surfaces
- Wash walls with TSP (trisodium phosphate) or other mild cleaner and rinse to remove dirt, oil and grime that could prevent adhesion.
- For glossy paint, lightly sand to degloss before cleaning. Wallpaper glue won’t adhere to shiny surfaces.
Repair Holes and Cracks
- Fill all holes, cracks, seams and imperfections with spackle. Sand smooth once dry.
- Seal repaired areas with primer to create a uniform surface.
Remove Wallpaper and Adhesive
- For walls with existing wallpaper, remove old wallpaper and residual adhesive.
- Use a steamer or hot water mixed with fabric softener to loosen the adhesive. Scrape off softened adhesive.
- Lightly sand walls to remove remaining adhesive residue. Wash sanded walls with TSP.
Prime Walls
- Prime cleaned walls with an acrylic wallcovering primer or oil-based primer like Zinsser’s Shieldz.
- Primer enhances adhesion and prevents moisture damage.
- For glossy paint, use a primer specifically designed for nonporous surfaces.
Follow these steps and your walls will be perfectly prepped for flawless wallpaper application.
Hanging the Wallpaper
When tackling a DIY wallpaper project, proper hanging techniques are vital for a professional-looking finish. Follow these tips when hanging wallpaper:
Set Up Work Station
- Cover the floor with a canvas tarp to protect from spills and debris.
- Use a level work table for folding and cutting wallpaper. The table should be wider than the wallpaper.
Follow Wallpaper Prep Steps
- Review the manufacturer’s instructions for special wall prep or adhesives. Soak fibers and prep pasted papers as directed.
- For difficult installations like textured walls, use a rigid liner paper first to create an even surface.
Plan the Layout
- Draw a layout marking the roll lengths based on your wall measurements. Plan the layout so seams don’t fall near windows, doors or over furniture.
Apply Adhesive Properly
- For pasted wallpapers, use a paint roller to evenly apply an even coat of adhesive on the backing. Book and allow time to activate adhesive per manufacturer’s instructions.
- For pre-pasted wallpapers, use a water tray and sponge to activate the paste. Mist the back of the paper and book it as directed.
Use a Plumb Line
- Mark ceiling to floor plumb line with a level and chalk snap line. Use the line as a guide for positioning the first strip straight.
Smooth Out Wallpaper
- Use a stiff bristle brush and smoothing tool to remove air pockets and flatten seams as you install each strip. Work from top center outward.
Trim Excess Paper
- Use a sharp razor knife and straight edge to neatly trim excess paper at ceiling, baseboard, windows and doors.
- On inside corners, do not overlap paper. Butt seams together and coat with seam adhesive.
Follow these professional techniques for smooth, beautiful DIY wallpaper results.
Wallpapering Challenging Areas
While smooth, blank walls are ideal for wallpaper, the reality is walls often have architectural details that present challenges. Here are tips for flawlessly wallpapering difficult spaces:
Around Windows and Doors
- Avoid seams at window and door edges which get the most wear. Place seams 6″-8” away from openings.
- To hide seams, wrap wallpaper 2-3” inside window and door frames. Use a craft knife to carefully trim excess.
At Inside Corners
- Don’t overlap wallpaper at inside corners. This creates raised seams. Instead, butt wallpaper edges together.
- Cover the seam with seam adhesive or caulk. Then use a corner roller tool to flatten and adhere the corner.
Where Walls Meet Ceilings
- Use a wallpaper smoothing brush to adhere paper to the ceiling. Apply seam adhesive at the ceiling edge.
- For inside corners, cut the excess wallpaper 1/8” from the corner. Do not overlap.
Around Electrical Outlets
- Turn off electricity at the breaker. Remove cover plates and outlets.
- Cut wallpaper to fit around outlets and switch boxes. Replace plates when finished.
- For protruding plugs and plates, carefully slit paper with a craft knife. Avoid tears.
Where Walls Meet Other Surfaces
- For transitions from walls to moldings/ceilings, fit wallpaper into the edges, then trim excess.
- Where cabinets meet walls, cut the wallpaper edge along the cabinet shape with a craft knife.
With thoughtful precision, you can beautifully wallpaper even complex architectural spaces.
Wallpapering Common Spaces
Deciding which rooms are best suited for wallpaper can be difficult. Here are tips on beautifully wallpapering some of the most common spaces:
Entryways
- Entryways are great spaces for bold, lively patterns and prints. Set the tone for the home decor with dramatic graphics or colors.
- Select scrubbable wallpapers rated for high-traffic areas which can handle rubbing from shoulders and bags.
Living Rooms
- In living rooms, select wallpapers with colors and designs inspired by your furnishings. Florals, damasks and nature prints work well.
- Limit wallpaper to one accent wall behind the sofa. Or paper the ceiling for an elegant metallic or mural statement.
Dining Rooms
- Formal dining rooms allow for richer, more lavish wallpapers like flocked designs, cut velvets or fabric-mimicking prints.
- Enhance the architecture with tone-on-tone damasks, vertical stripes or washable grasscloths.
Bedrooms
- Paper just one wall in bedrooms for a simple focal point. Choose relaxing, tranquil patterns like paisleys, buttery prints or subtle plaids.
- In kids’ rooms, use wallpaper to complement the decor. Florals, checks, circles and whimsical prints work well.
Bathrooms
- In baths and powder rooms, moisture-resistant vinyls and grasscloths are best. Avoid paper-backed vinyls prone to peeling.
- For a contemporary look, try geometric or graphic prints. Or select metallic wallpaper for shine and drama.
Home Offices
- In home offices, select calming colors and minimal patterns to enhance concentration. Try tone-on-tone textures, wood prints or subtle stripes.
- For creative spaces, inspirational patterns like leaves, blossoms, butterflies or quotes can stimulate ideas.
With the right wallpaper choice, you can stylishly transform any room in your home.
Maintaining Wallpaper
Once installed, wallpaper requires some routine maintenance to keep it looking fresh. Here are tips for properly caring for wallpaper:
Handle New Wallpaper Gently
- Avoid rubbing new wallpaper, especially delicate papers like grasscloth or strings. Wallpaper is susceptible to damage until thoroughly cured.
- Wait 1-2 weeks before thoroughly cleaning new wallpaper. Check manufacturer guidance.
Clean Wallpaper Periodically
- Clean wallpaper every 2-3 months to prevent buildup of dirt, grime and stains. Use a natural sponge and mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
- For vinyl wallpapers, wipe down more frequently with just water and a soft cloth.
- Spot clean spills and stains immediately with diluted dish soap on a clean sponge. Blot dry with a towel.
Repair Any Damage
- To fix tears, carefully lift edges and apply new wheat or cellulose paste beneath tear. Smooth gently. Wipe away excess paste.
- For scuffs or marks, try gently rubbing the spot with a pencil eraser. Avoid liquid cleaners which may leave a water mark.
Handle Moisture Issues
- Prevent excess humidity which can bubble wallpaper seams. Quickly fix any leaks and ventilate rooms when showering or cooking.
- Around sinks or tubs, seal wallpaper edges with silicone caulk. Avoid paper wallpaper types which react poorly to steam and moisture.
With routine care, wallpaper can maintain its beauty and last for many years in any space.
When to Remove or Replace Wallpaper
While wallpaper has a long life span if cared for properly, there comes a point when removal or replacement is needed. Here are signs it’s time for a change:
Fading, Discoloration or Yellowing
- Over time, wallpaper colors may fade, spot or yellow from light exposure, smoke or aging adhesive. If the discoloration is severe enough to bother you, it’s time to replace the paper.
Cracks, Peeling or Loose Seams
- As homes settle and walls shift, wallpaper can crack at stress points or seams may peel due to loss of adhesion. Repairing will temporarily solve the problem but won’t fix the underlying issue. Consider removing paper completely and starting fresh.
Stains that Can’t be Removed
- Although normal cleaning can remove most stains, some may be too set in the wallpaper to get out completely via cleaning. At this point, your only option is to spot replace just the stained strip or redo that entire wall.
Damaged Areas Beyond Repair
- Tears, punctures or rips can happen over time. But if the damaged area is large or in a highly visible spot, repairing may not restore the seamless look. Removing and replacing the paper is the better option.
Outdated Colors or Patterns
- Trends come and go. If your formerly favorite floral feels dated and dreary, it’s probably time for replacement. Dated wallpaper detracts from home decor.
You’re Ready for a Change
- Even if the wallpaper is in good shape, you may crave a fresh update. If the current style no longer fits your vision, that’s reason enough to switch up your wallpaper.
Although wallpaper is meant to last, ongoing issues or desired design updates are valid reasons to redo your space.
Removing Wallpaper
Taking down old wallpaper is messy and time consuming but worthwhile to start with a clean slate. Follow these steps to easily remove wallpaper:
Gather Your Supplies
- Perforator tool
- Hot water
- Removal solution like Dif gel
- Paper scraper
- Sharp utility knife
- Sandpaper
- Primers
- Drop cloths
Perforate the Paper
- Use a perforator tool to poke holes all over the wallpaper surface. This allows the water and chemicals to penetrate the backing.
Soak the Paper
- Fill a spray bottle with hot water. Spray water directly onto walls or apply with a sponge. Thoroughly soak each section as you work.
Apply Removal Solution
- Apply gel remover directly onto wet wallpaper. Let solution soak in 5-10 minutes. Reapply remover and water as needed.
Scrape Off Wallpaper
- Once saturated, the wallpaper will begin to peel. Use a scraper to slowly and carefully peel off the layers. Take care not to damage the walls.
Remove Adhesive Residue
- Remove any leftover adhesive with more hot water, remover and scraping. Switch to sandpaper for final residue removal until walls are smooth.
Clean and Prime Walls
- Wash walls with TSP and rinse to remove chemical residue. Once fully dry, apply an alcohol-based primer to lock in any remaining adhesive.
With some perseverance and elbow grease, you can completely clear walls of layers and layers of old wallpaper.
Hiring a Professional
While DIY wallpaper removal and installation is certainly achievable, some homeowners opt to hire a professional wallpaper installer for a flawless finish. Here are some benefits of professional wallpaper installation:
Expert Hanging Process
- Professional installers are experts at perfectly matching patterns and concealing seams. They use specialized tools and techniques to meticulously hang wallpaper for precision results.
Efficient Removal Process
- Experienced installers can efficiently remove old wallpaper and adhesive, making the tedious process much faster. They know techniques to prevent damage to drywall and plaster.
Handling of Challenging Areas
- Professionals have specialized training for finessing tricky spots like ceilings, corners and moldings with seamless wallpaper application. Their artistry shows in these areas.
Smoothing Out Surfaces
- Installers know how to properly prepare textured or damaged walls for wallpaper. They can skim coat walls or apply liner paper to create a smooth finish.
Installer’s Expert Opinion
- seasoned installers have a wealth of knowledge on selecting durable wallpapers suitable for different applications. They can advise on options to realize your vision.
Although a professional job does come with higher costs, their expertise yields exquisite results free of frustrations and imperfections.
Cost to Install Wallpaper
The cost to install wallpaper varies greatly depending on the wallpaper type, labor and installation area. Typically, you can expect to pay:
- Wallpaper: $10 – $125 per double roll
- Labor: $200 – $1000 or more for installation
- Specialty wallpaper: More delicate or natural materials cost more
- Labor-intensive areas: Foyers, ceilings, rooms with architectural details
