How much does wallpaper cost?
Wallpaper costs vary widely, typically from $20 to over $500 per roll, depending on material, brand, and design complexity. Professional installation averages $150 to $700 per room, while removal can range from $100 to $400 per room. Always factor in the cost of supplies and potential waste.
The price of wallpaper is not a single number; it fluctuates based on several key factors. The most significant influences are the material it’s made from, the complexity of the design, the brand, and whether you buy it by the roll or by the square foot. Understanding these variables will help you set a realistic budget for your project.
For a basic vinyl or paper wallpaper, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50 per single roll. These are often suitable for low-traffic areas or for those on a tight budget. Mid-range options, such as textured papers or those with more intricate patterns, typically fall between $50 and $150 per roll. These offer a better balance of quality and aesthetics.
High-end wallpapers, including grasscloth, silk, or custom-designed murals, can easily cost $150 to $500 or even more per roll. These premium materials and designs are for statement walls or spaces where durability and a luxurious look are paramount. Remember that the amount of wallpaper you need depends on the square footage of your walls, so always calculate carefully to avoid over- or under-buying.
Factors affecting wallpaper prices
Material is a primary driver of cost. Standard paper wallpaper is the most affordable but less durable. Vinyl wallpaper offers better scrubbability and moisture resistance, making it a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms, and it’s moderately priced. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is convenient and often removable, with prices varying widely but generally in the mid-range. Natural fiber wallpapers, like grasscloth or cork, are more expensive due to their unique textures and delicate application requirements. Fabric-backed vinyl and premium papers also command higher prices.
The intricacy of the design and the printing method play a role. Simple, repeating patterns are generally less expensive than complex, large-scale designs or murals that require precise alignment. Digital printing can offer customization but may increase the per-roll cost. Established brands with a reputation for quality and design often charge a premium compared to lesser-known manufacturers.
Consider the coverage per roll. Wallpaper is typically sold in rolls that cover a specific square footage. A standard double roll in the US often covers about 56 to 60 square feet, but this can vary. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to accurately calculate how many rolls you’ll need for your room. Buying in bulk or looking for sales can help reduce the overall cost, but ensure you purchase from the same dye lot to guarantee color consistency.
How much does wallpaper cost per square foot?
While wallpaper is most commonly sold by the roll, its cost can be expressed per square foot for comparison. This metric helps when evaluating different brands or types of wallpaper. Generally, you can expect to pay between $1 to $10 per square foot for most common wallpaper materials. This range covers everything from basic vinyl papers to more textured or designer options.
For instance, a standard roll that covers 56 square feet might cost $40. Divided by 56, this equates to approximately $0.71 per square foot. More expensive wallpapers, such as grasscloth or silk, could cost $200 for a roll covering 40 square feet, resulting in $5 per square foot. Custom murals or highly specialized papers can easily exceed $10 per square foot, reflecting the unique artwork and production involved.
When calculating your budget, it’s often easier to work with the cost per roll, as that’s how it’s sold. However, understanding the per-square-foot cost provides a standardized way to compare the value and price point of different wallpaper options. Always factor in waste from cutting and matching patterns, which can effectively increase the per-square-foot cost of the installed product.
What does the price of wallpaper include?
When you purchase wallpaper, the price typically covers the material itself – the paper, vinyl, or other substrate with the printed design. It includes the manufacturing and branding of that specific product. For most standard rolls, this is all that is included. You are paying for the aesthetic appeal and the physical material that will cover your walls.
However, the price of the wallpaper roll does not include any installation supplies like adhesive (if not pre-pasted), primer, or tools such as smoothing brushes, seam rollers, or cutting knives. It also does not cover the cost of labor if you hire a professional installer. Some specialty wallpapers might come with specific application instructions or recommended adhesives, but these are usually sold separately.
Premium or custom-designed wallpapers might include more in their price, such as detailed design consultation or a more robust quality control process. However, for the vast majority of retail wallpaper, the cost is for the material only. You must budget separately for any necessary preparation products and installation labor.
Wallpaper Cost Ranges by Material and What’s Included
| Material/Format | Price Range Per Roll (USD) | Typical Coverage Per Roll (sq ft) | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Paper | $20 – $50 | 56-60 | Wallpaper material only |
| Vinyl | $30 – $100 | 56-60 | Wallpaper material only (more durable) |
| Peel and Stick | $40 – $150 | Variable (check product) | Adhesive backing; wallpaper material |
| Grasscloth/Natural Fiber | $100 – $500+ | 30-50 | Wallpaper material only (requires special adhesive) |
| Designer/Custom Mural | $150 – $500+ | Variable (often panelized) | Wallpaper material only; potential design consultation |
FAQ
How much does it cost to install wallpaper?
Professional wallpaper installation typically costs between $150 and $700 per room, depending on the room’s size, the complexity of the wallpaper, and the installer’s rates. For a single accent wall, you might pay $100 to $300. This cost covers the labor for surface preparation, applying adhesive, hanging the paper, and trimming edges.
How much does it cost to remove wallpaper?
Removing wallpaper can cost between $100 and $400 per room, with DIY removal being significantly cheaper if you have the time and patience. Professional removal involves labor to strip the old paper, clean the walls of adhesive residue, and prepare the surface for new treatment. The cost can increase if the wallpaper is old, stubborn, or applied over improperly prepped walls.
What additional costs should I consider for wallpaper?
Beyond the wallpaper itself, budget for essential supplies like primer, adhesive (if not pre-pasted or peel-and-stick), and tools such as smoothing tools, seam rollers, and utility knives. Professional installation adds significant labor costs, and proper wall preparation or repairs before hanging can also increase the overall project expense.