When selecting wallpaper for a room, consider the material’s durability and how it handles moisture. Vinyl wallpaper is a workhorse, especially for high-traffic areas like hallways or rooms prone to humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens. Its non-porous surface wipes clean easily and resists mold and mildew. For a more eco-friendly option, look for PVC-free vinyl or paper-backed options.
Textured wallpapers, like grasscloth or linen, add depth and warmth to a space but can be more challenging to clean. They are best suited for low-moisture environments like bedrooms or living rooms. Peel-and-stick wallpaper offers a DIY-friendly alternative, perfect for renters or those who like to change their decor frequently. However, ensure your walls are smooth and properly primed, as the adhesive can sometimes pull paint off drywall upon removal.
Wallpaper installation steps you can’t skip
Proper wall preparation is non-negotiable for a smooth wallpaper finish. Start by removing any existing wallpaper, paint, or imperfections. Fill holes with spackle and sand smooth once dry. Then, apply a coat of high-quality primer specifically designed for wallpaper. This seals the wall, prevents the adhesive from soaking into the drywall, and makes future removal much easier. Let the primer dry completely, usually 24 hours, before proceeding.
Measure your walls carefully. Most wallpaper rolls are 20.5 or 27 inches wide. You’ll need to calculate how many rolls to buy, factoring in pattern repeat. A common pattern repeat can require you to waste 10-20% of the roll. Always buy at least one extra roll to account for mistakes or future repairs. Check the batch numbers on each roll to ensure color consistency; slight variations can occur between batches.
Cutting the wallpaper panels requires a sharp utility knife and a straight edge. Cut panels long enough to allow for trimming at the ceiling and baseboard, usually adding 4-6 inches extra. For patterned wallpaper, carefully match the pattern at the seams. This is crucial for a cohesive look. If you’re using a large or intricate pattern, consider laying out your panels on a clean floor to visualize the match before hanging.
Applying the wallpaper paste depends on the type. For traditional paste-the-paper wallpaper, you’ll paste the back of the paper. For paste-the-wall options, you apply paste directly to the primed wall. Hang the first strip precisely vertical using a plumb line or a level. Smooth out air bubbles and wrinkles with a wallpaper brush or smoother, working from the center outwards. Overlap seams slightly if recommended by the manufacturer, then trim excess with your utility knife. For intricate corners or around windows, use a sharper blade and make multiple light cuts rather than one heavy one.
Common wallpaper mistakes and how to avoid them
One of the most costly mistakes is not preparing the walls properly. Skipping the priming step can lead to wallpaper that bubbles, peels, or damages your drywall when removed. Also, failing to fill and sand any imperfections means those bumps and cracks will be highly visible once the wallpaper is up.
Another pitfall is not ordering enough wallpaper. Running out mid-project and finding that the next batch has a slightly different dye lot can be a nightmare. Always over-order by at least one roll. Similarly, attempting to match patterns incorrectly at the seams will make the wallpaper look unprofessional and disjointed. Take your time with pattern alignment; it’s worth the effort.
Using a dull blade when trimming can tear the wallpaper and create ragged edges. Invest in a high-quality utility knife with plenty of sharp replacement blades. Forgetting to book the wallpaper (applying paste and letting it sit for a few minutes, as per manufacturer instructions) can lead to issues with expansion and adhesion. Peel-and-stick wallpaper can also be tricky; applying it to unprimed or textured walls can result in poor adhesion or damage during removal.
Other rooms
While bedrooms and living rooms are popular choices for wallpaper, don’t overlook other areas. A statement wallpaper in a powder room can create a dramatic first impression. For hallways, durable vinyl or washable options are practical. Even staircases can benefit from a pop of pattern. Consider gray wallpaper for bathrooms or a playful design in a child’s room. The key is to choose a material and pattern that suits the function and traffic of the specific space.
Customer reviews
Homeowners often praise peel-and-stick wallpaper for its ease of application and the ability to reposition it during installation. Many appreciate its temporary nature, making it ideal for rented apartments or for testing bold designs. However, some reviews caution that the adhesive can be very strong, potentially damaging delicate paint finishes or even drywall paper if removed too aggressively or applied over an unsuitable surface.
Traditional wallpaper, especially higher-quality options, receives accolades for its sophisticated look and durability. Customers often mention how a well-chosen wallpaper can completely transform the feel of a room, adding character and style that paint alone cannot achieve. The main complaints typically revolve around the installation process being more time-consuming and requiring greater skill, particularly when dealing with intricate patterns or difficult wall surfaces. Some also note that professional installation can be costly.
For those seeking specific aesthetics, reviews for pastel bedroom wallpaper frequently highlight its calming and airy effect. Conversely, reviews for adult wallpaper for bedroom choices often focus on adding a touch of sophistication or personality. Accent walls using bold patterns are a recurring theme, with many users sharing positive experiences of how a single feature wall can anchor a room’s design, as detailed in guides on master bedroom wallpaper accent wall projects.
Overall, customer feedback suggests that investing time in proper preparation and accurate measurements leads to the most satisfying results, regardless of the wallpaper type. Reading product-specific reviews can also offer valuable insights into potential challenges or benefits unique to a particular wallpaper line, complementing broader guides on wallpaper design ideas for every room.