Wallpaper can dramatically transform a space, adding texture, color, and personality to your walls in ways that paint alone cannot achieve. However, installing wallpaper can be a tricky task that requires patience, precision, and the right techniques to ensure a flawless finish. Whether you’re going for a bold, patterned look or a subtle, textured effect, following these installation tips will help you achieve professional-looking results in your home. Here’s everything you need to know about wallpaper installation tips in 2024 to ensure that your project goes smoothly.
1. Prepare Your Walls Properly
The foundation of a flawless wallpaper installation starts with proper wall preparation. Before you begin, make sure that the walls are clean, smooth, and free from any imperfections. Any bumps, cracks, or holes on the wall can show through the wallpaper and ruin the overall finish. Sand down rough patches, fill in any holes with a suitable filler, and clean the surface to remove any dust or grease.
If your walls are painted, it’s a good idea to prime them before installing wallpaper. Priming the walls helps the wallpaper adhesive stick better and prevents the wall color from bleeding through lighter-colored wallpaper. This step is particularly important if you’re applying wallpaper to newly plastered walls or walls with old paint.
2. Measure Twice, Cut Once
Accurate measurements are crucial when it comes to wallpaper installation. Measure the height and width of the wall to determine how much wallpaper you’ll need. It’s always wise to order a little extra in case of mistakes or future repairs. Once you have your wallpaper ready, unroll it and measure the length of each strip, adding an extra 2-3 inches at the top and bottom for trimming.
When cutting the wallpaper, be sure to use sharp scissors or a cutting knife to ensure clean edges. For patterned wallpaper, align the design correctly when cutting each strip to ensure a seamless look once it’s applied to the wall.
3. Apply Wallpaper Adhesive Evenly
The way you apply the adhesive is another key factor in achieving a smooth, professional finish. Some wallpapers are pre-pasted, meaning they only need to be soaked in water before installation. Others require you to apply adhesive manually. In both cases, it’s important to apply the adhesive evenly to avoid bubbles, wrinkles, or uneven adhesion.
If you’re using wallpaper that requires manual adhesive application, spread the paste uniformly across the back of the wallpaper with a paint roller or brush. Make sure that the adhesive reaches the edges and corners of the wallpaper. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much paste can lead to a messy application or adhesive seeping through the wallpaper.
4. Start from the Top
When it comes to hanging wallpaper, start from the top of the wall and work your way down. This helps to prevent the wallpaper from slipping or becoming misaligned. Begin by pressing the wallpaper strip against the wall, using a smoothing brush or roller to remove any air bubbles and wrinkles as you go. Work slowly, pressing the wallpaper firmly from the center out towards the edges to ensure even adhesion.
Once the strip is in place, trim the excess wallpaper from the top and bottom using a sharp utility knife or scissors. Make sure to maintain a steady hand to create clean, straight edges around the ceiling, floor, and any windows or doors.
5. Match Patterns Carefully
If you’re using patterned wallpaper, matching the design at the seams is crucial for achieving a cohesive and polished look. Align the pattern carefully before placing the next strip of wallpaper on the wall. Take your time to adjust the position until the pattern lines up perfectly at the seams.
It’s helpful to step back and examine your work as you go, ensuring that the pattern remains consistent across the entire wall. Misaligned patterns can be quite noticeable, so it’s worth the extra effort to get it right.
6. Deal with Bubbles and Wrinkles Immediately
Bubbles and wrinkles are common challenges during wallpaper installation, but they can be fixed with the right approach. If you notice a bubble forming under the wallpaper, use a smoothing brush to gently push it towards the edge of the wall until it disappears. For larger bubbles that don’t respond to smoothing, use a small pin to prick the bubble and release the trapped air before smoothing it out.
Wrinkles can often be smoothed out by gently lifting the wallpaper from the wall and reapplying it. Be sure to act quickly, as wallpaper adhesive becomes harder to adjust as it dries.
Conclusion
Wallpaper installation requires patience and attention to detail, but with the right techniques, you can achieve a flawless finish that transforms your space. Preparing your walls, measuring accurately, applying adhesive evenly, and matching patterns carefully are key steps that contribute to a professional-looking result. With these tips in mind, you can confidently tackle your next wallpaper installation project and create a stunning feature wall or room that elevates your home’s interior design.