Wallpaper can dramatically improve the look of any room, but achieving a flawless finish depends on careful application. Our expert guide to installing the right wallpaper will help you avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a first-time wallpaper installer, these 25 pro tips will help you achieve high-quality results and avoid the typical challenges associated with applying wallpaper. With detailed preparation steps and precise techniques, you’ll be equipped to ensure a strong foundation for a flawless finish.
Preparation steps: Ensure a strong foundation
Not preparing the wall properly
Mistake 1: Failing to clean and smooth the wall before application. Wallpaper may not adhere properly to dirty or uneven surfaces. Tip 1: Make sure the wall is clean, dry and smooth. Repair any holes or imperfections with spackling putty and sand any rough areas. Primer can also help create a more adhesive surface.
Forget about adjusting to the wallpaper
Mistake 2: Not allowing wall coverings to acclimate to room temperature before installation can result in expansion or contraction after application. Tip 2: Unpack the house wall coverings and leave them in the room where they will be applied for at least 48 hours before installation. This helps the paper adapt to the environmental conditions of the room, reducing problems after application.
Using the wrong adhesive
Third mistake: Using an adhesive that is not suitable for the type of wallpaper or wall conditions. Tip 3: Choose the adhesive based on the type of wallpaper and room conditions (for example, areas with high humidity may require a mildew-resistant adhesive). Consult the wallpaper manufacturer if you need further clarification.
Ignore room conditions
Fourth mistake: Not taking into account the environmental conditions of the room, such as humidity and temperature, which can affect the adhesion of the wallpaper and its appearance. Tip 4: Make sure the room is a constant temperature and not too humid. Wallpaper adhesive may not set properly in extremely cold or humid conditions. Use a dehumidifier if necessary, and avoid wallpapering in extreme weather conditions.
Use dull blades
Mistake 5: Using a dull blade to cut wallpaper can result in torn and jagged edges. Tip 5: Always use a sharp knife or wallpaper scissors. Replace blades frequently to maintain sharpness, especially when cutting multiple layers or thicker wallpaper.
Measuring and cutting steps: Accuracy is key
Incorrect measurements and cuts
Mistake Six: Cutting pieces too short or without taking into account windows and doors. Tip 6: Accurately measure the height and width of your walls, and always allow extra wallpaper for trimming. When measuring cuts around windows and doors, be sure to leave enough excess to go around small recesses.
Mismatched patterns
Mistake 7: Improper alignment of the pattern, resulting in a disjointed and unprofessional appearance. Tip 7: Before cutting and applying, compare the pattern in the layers to make sure they match. Allowing additional background for repeating complex patterns and patterns.
Neglecting waste planning
Eighth mistake: Not taking into account the repetition of patterns leads to an unexpected shortage of wallpaper. Tip 8: Calculate the wallpaper you need before cutting and applying, taking into account the repeating pattern. Purchase extra rolls to ensure you don’t run out, especially if the wallpaper has a complex pattern that requires a more precise matching.
Application steps: Achieve a smooth look
Improper alignment initially
Mistake 9: Starting the first strip plumb (not straight vertically) makes all subsequent strips uneven. Tip 9: Use a plumb line or level to mark a straight vertical line from ceiling to floor at your starting point. This will serve as a guide to make sure the wallpaper strips are aligned correctly.
Do not use the guidelines for the first plate
Mistake 10: Starting without instructions results in a crooked installation from the first board. Tip 10: Always draw a straight vertical line parallel to the starting point using a plumb line or laser level. This line acts as a guide to ensure that the first panel is perfectly vertical, setting the tone for the rest of the application.
Booking time is not suitable
Mistake 11: Not allowing the adhesive to fully activate, resulting in bubbling and poor adhesion. Tip 11: After applying the adhesive, fold the wallpaper onto itself and leave it for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer (usually about 5-10 minutes). This process, known as “locking,” allows the adhesive to fully activate.
Inconsistent adhesive application
Mistake 12: Applying too much or too little adhesive, resulting in poor adhesion or drips. Tip 12: Apply an even layer of adhesive using a roller or brush, to ensure even coverage. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations on the amount of adhesive to use, and consider using a gluing machine for consistent results.
Bubbles and wrinkles
Mistake 13: Retention of air bubbles and wrinkles after application. Tip 13: Use a wallpaper smoother or a dry roller to gently press the wallpaper onto the wall from the center outward. This method helps avoid air trapping. If bubbles appear, pierce them with a small pin and smooth out the air.
Improper closure
Error 14: Overlapping layers or gaps between wallpaper strips. Tip 14: Pin the seams together tightly without forcing them to overlap. Use a seam roller to gently press the layers together once the wallpaper is properly applied.
Failure to scan as you go
Mistake 15: Leaving glue residue on the front of the wallpaper can be difficult to remove once it dries and marries to the final finish. Tip 15: When applying each strip of wallpaper, gently wipe it with a clean, damp sponge to remove any excess adhesive. This keeps the surface clean and prevents staining.
Inappropriate overlapping of corners
Mistake 16: Do not overlap the wallpaper in the corners or cut it too short, which will lead to peeling or gaps when the wallpaper settles. Tip 16: When you get to the corner, leave at least an inch of wallpaper to wrap around the next wall before cutting. This provides a stable base for the next strip and ensures the corners are fully covered and secured.
Finishing steps: perfecting the details
Neglect of roof and baseboards
Mistake 17: Failing to properly align wallpaper with ceiling and baseboards, resulting in noticeable uneven lines at the top and bottom. Tip 17: Start each new strip with a slight overlap in the ceiling, making sure there is a straight line, then trim off the excess with a sharp blade. This helps maintain an even, consistent edge around the entire room.
Not planning to finish
Eighteenth mistake: Finishing the installation of wallpaper on the walls in an inappropriate or very visible place. Tip 18: Plan your starting and ending points before you start. Ideally, finish at a corner or behind the door where the final seam will be less visible.
Lack of final inspection
Mistake nineteen: Not checking the wallpaper after applying it for missing spots or defects. Tip 19: After applying each section of wallpaper, step back and inspect it from different angles for any imperfections. If you find any problems, address them immediately while the adhesive is still flexible.
Lack of patience during drying
Mistake 20: Moving wallpaper before it is completely dry may cause it to peel or separate layers. Tip 20: Leave the wallpaper until it dries completely without disturbing. Avoid using the room or moving furniture close to the walls until the wallpaper is completely installed, which may take up to 24-48 hours, depending on conditions.
Improper storage of walls
Mistake 21: Improperly storing leftover wallpaper can cause it to fade or become damaged. Tip 21: Store any excess wallpaper rolls in a dry, dark place, with the decorative side turned out to avoid curling. This preserves color and quality for future repairs or additions.
Forget to check batch numbers
Error 22: Using wallpaper rolls from different production batches can cause slight color differences. Tip 22: Always check the lot numbers when purchasing wallpaper to ensure all rolls are from the same batch. This reduces the risk of noticeable color differences between strips.
Skimping on tools
Error 23: Using inappropriate or temporary tools may harm the quality of your background app. Tip 23: Invest in some quality basic tools like your trusty wallpaper brush, seam roller, smoothing tool, and straight edge. These tools can greatly improve the ease of application and final appearance.
Expedite the process
Mistake 24: Rushing to apply wallpaper results in errors such as skewed patterns and unpolished edges. Tip 24: Take your time with every step, from measuring and cutting to gluing and applying. Rushing can lead to errors that are difficult to correct once the wallpaper is set.
Improper handling of wallpapers
Mistake Twenty-Five: Mishandling the wallpaper during the hanging process, which leads to the appearance of wrinkles or tears. Tip 25: Handle the wallpaper gently and avoid creasing it during application. Lay out the lengths on a clean, flat surface and avoid bending the paper sharply.
Master seamless wallpaper application with 25 pro tips
To achieve a seamless wallpaper application, thorough preparation, careful work and patience are essential. Following these 25 pro tips can avoid common mistakes and ensure a beautiful, long-lasting finish. Whether you’re renovating one room or redecorating your entire home, adopting the right approach to wallpaper can transform your space with minimal frustration.
Are you ready to start your next wallpaper project? Make sure you have the right tools and patience, and turn your walls into works of art today!
