What is a double roll of wallpaper?
A double roll of wallpaper is a standard measurement unit. Historically, it meant a single bolt twice the length of a single roll, approximately 20.5″ wide by 33′ long, covering about 56 sq. ft. Today, a ‘double roll’ package often contains two pre-cut single rolls, each about 20.5″ wide by 16.5′ long, totaling 33 linear feet.
The term ‘double roll’ in wallpaper can be a source of confusion for DIYers. Historically, a double roll was a single, continuous bolt of wallpaper that was twice the length of a standard single roll. This meant a traditional double roll was roughly 20.5 inches wide and 33 feet long, yielding approximately 56.4 square feet of material. This larger size was convenient for installers, requiring fewer seams over a large area.
However, the industry has evolved, and the definition of a ‘double roll’ today can be somewhat ambiguous. Many manufacturers now pre-cut wallpaper into smaller lengths. What is sold as a ‘double roll’ in a retail store is often actually two separate, pre-cut ‘single’ rolls packaged together. Each of these pre-cut single rolls typically measures around 20.5 inches wide by 16.5 feet long. When you purchase one ‘double roll’ package, you are getting two of these 16.5-foot lengths, totaling the 33 feet of linear coverage you’d expect from a traditional double roll. This packaging makes it easier for consumers to buy smaller quantities and manage the material.
The key takeaway is to always check the actual dimensions and coverage listed on the wallpaper’s packaging or product description. Do not assume that ‘double roll’ automatically means a 33-foot continuous length. Look for the width (commonly 20.5 or 27 inches) and the total linear footage or square footage coverage. A standard US single roll is typically 20.5 inches wide by 16.5 feet long, covering about 28 square feet, accounting for pattern repeat and trimming.
Understanding wallpaper roll sizes and coverage
Wallpaper coverage is usually calculated based on the nominal size of the roll and accounting for pattern repeat and trimming waste. A traditional double roll, 20.5 inches wide by 33 feet long, has a surface area of 56.4 square feet. However, due to the pattern repeat (the vertical distance before the design repeats) and the need to trim edges and match patterns at seams, the actual usable coverage is significantly less. For a standard 20.5-inch wide roll with a moderate pattern repeat, you can expect to get about 25-30 square feet of usable coverage from a traditional 33-foot length.
Modern ‘double rolls’ sold as two separate 16.5-foot lengths each offer roughly 14 square feet of usable coverage. Therefore, a purchased ‘double roll’ package (two such lengths) provides approximately 28 square feet of usable coverage. This is why it’s crucial to calculate your wallpaper needs carefully. Measure the height and width of the walls you intend to cover. Divide the total wall area by the usable coverage per roll (check the manufacturer’s specifications) to determine how many rolls you need. Always round up to the nearest whole roll to ensure you have enough material and to account for any mistakes or difficult pattern matching.
How to calculate wallpaper needs accurately
To accurately calculate how many wallpaper rolls you need, follow these steps:
1. Measure the perimeter of the room: Add the lengths of all walls. For example, a 10 ft. x 12 ft. room has a perimeter of (10 + 12 + 10 + 12) = 44 feet.
2. Measure the height of the walls: From the ceiling to the baseboard. Let’s say your walls are 8 feet high.
3. Calculate the total square footage of the walls: Multiply the perimeter by the height. 44 ft. x 8 ft. = 352 square feet.
4. Determine the usable square footage per roll: Check the wallpaper’s packaging. A modern ‘double roll’ (two 16.5 ft. lengths) usually offers about 28 square feet of usable coverage. A traditional ‘double roll’ (one 33 ft. length) offers about 56 square feet, but again, factor in pattern repeat and waste.
5. Divide total wall square footage by usable coverage per roll: 352 sq. ft. / 28 sq. ft. per double roll = 12.57 double rolls. Always round up. You would need to purchase 13 double rolls.
Consider the pattern repeat. Large or complex patterns require more wallpaper because you’ll have more waste as you cut and align the designs. For patterns with a large repeat (e.g., over 20 inches), you might need to add an extra 15-20% to your total calculation. It’s always better to have a little extra wallpaper than to run short, especially as dye lots can vary between batches, making it difficult to match colors if you have to buy more later.
Types of wallpaper grades and their recommended use
Wallpaper comes in various grades and materials, each suited for different applications and durability requirements. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right type for your project.
**Standard Paper Wallpaper:** This is the most traditional type, often featuring intricate designs and a slightly textured surface. It’s generally the most affordable option. However, it is less durable and susceptible to damage from moisture and scrubbing. It’s best suited for low-traffic areas like adult bedrooms or formal living rooms where it won’t be subjected to heavy wear or moisture.
**Vinyl Wallpaper:** This type has a paper or fabric backing coated with a layer of vinyl. Vinyl wallpaper is highly durable, scrubbable, and water-resistant, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas and rooms prone to moisture or soiling. It’s ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, children’s playrooms, and hallways. It can mimic various textures, from smooth finishes to embossed patterns.
**Non-Woven Wallpaper:** Made from a blend of paper and synthetic fibers, non-woven wallpaper is breathable, tear-resistant, and easy to hang and remove. It doesn’t absorb moisture as readily as standard paper and is often considered ‘washable.’ It’s a versatile option suitable for most rooms in the house, including living areas, bedrooms, and even moderately humid spaces. Its ease of removal makes it a favorite for renters or those who like to redecorate frequently.
**Textured/Embossed Wallpaper:** This category includes wallpapers with raised patterns or textures, often made from materials like vinyl, fabric, or even grasscloth. The texture can hide minor imperfections in the wall surface. They add depth and visual interest to a room. Use them in areas where you want to make a design statement, such as accent walls in living rooms, dining rooms, or master bedrooms. Be mindful that some highly textured papers might be harder to clean.
**Peel and Stick Wallpaper:** A modern innovation, peel and stick wallpaper has an adhesive backing, allowing for easy application and removal without damaging the walls. It’s perfect for temporary applications, renters, or DIYers who want a quick update. While convenient, it may not be as durable as traditional wallpapers and might not hold up as well in high-moisture areas or extreme temperatures. It’s great for accent walls, small bathrooms, or updating furniture.
Wallpaper Grades and Recommended Uses
| Grade/Type | Material Composition | Durability | Moisture Resistance | Ease of Installation/Removal | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Paper | Paper pulp | Low | Low | Moderate (can tear easily) | Adult bedrooms, formal living rooms |
| Vinyl | Paper/fabric backing with vinyl coating | High | High | Moderate (can be sticky) | Kitchens, bathrooms, children’s rooms, hallways |
| Non-Woven | Blend of paper and synthetic fibers | Moderate to High | Moderate | High (easy to hang and strip) | Most rooms, including bedrooms, living areas, moderately humid spaces |
| Peel and Stick | Vinyl or fabric with adhesive backing | Moderate | Low to Moderate | Very High (easy DIY application and removal) | Accent walls, renters, quick updates, low-moisture areas |
FAQ
How do I know if a roll is a traditional double roll or two pre-cut single rolls?
Always check the product description and packaging carefully. Look for the exact linear footage or length specified. A traditional double roll will state a length of approximately 33 feet (or around 10 meters). If it lists two separate lengths of approximately 16.5 feet (or around 5 meters) each, it is packaged as two pre-cut single rolls sold together as a ‘double roll’ unit.
Can I mix wallpaper from different dye lots?
It is strongly advised not to mix wallpaper from different dye lots. Manufacturers assign dye lot numbers to each batch of wallpaper produced. Slight variations in color can occur between batches, and using rolls from different dye lots can result in noticeable color discrepancies on your walls, especially in certain lighting conditions. Always purchase enough wallpaper from the same dye lot to complete your project.
What does ‘pattern repeat’ mean and how does it affect my wallpaper purchase?
Pattern repeat refers to the vertical distance on the wallpaper where the design starts to repeat. A large pattern repeat means you’ll need more wallpaper because you have to discard more material to ensure the pattern aligns correctly at each seam. For example, a wallpaper with a 21-inch pattern repeat will generate more waste than one with a 6-inch repeat, potentially requiring you to buy an extra roll.
Is peel and stick wallpaper suitable for bathrooms?
Peel and stick wallpaper can be used in bathrooms, but with caution. It is generally not recommended for areas with very high humidity or direct water contact, such as behind a shower enclosure or directly next to a sink where splashing is frequent. For most bathrooms, it can work well on walls that are not exposed to excessive moisture, but its long-term durability in humid environments can be a concern compared to vinyl or specialized moisture-resistant wallpapers.