Compared to wall paint, wallpaper offers a variety of benefits such as diverse patterns, easy replacement, better breathability, and more eco-friendly properties. That’s why many homeowners choose wallpaper when they want a luxurious feel and aren’t too concerned about the cost. The way you apply the wallpaper directly impacts the final look and future maintenance. In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process and highlight important tips to keep in mind.
If your wallpaper isn’t sticking properly, don’t worry—we’ve got some practical solutions to help you fix it.
Preparation Steps
1. Wall Preparation
Before applying wallpaper, make sure the wall is in good condition. If there are any cracks or seams, use wall putty to fill them up. Mix the putty with some white glue (vinyl acetate resin) for better adhesion. Once filled, let it dry and sand the surface if necessary. If the wall is too smooth, it might not hold the adhesive well, so light sanding is recommended. After that, apply a base coat to create a protective layer between the wall and the wallpaper. This helps prevent moisture, salt, and alkali from damaging the wallpaper and protects your interior from mold and damage.
2. Preparing the Paste
The adhesive used for wallpaper is usually a mix of wallpaper powder and white glue. Adjust the thickness by adding water. The wallpaper powder is made from natural starch, while the white glue is a synthetic resin. Depending on the type of wallpaper, the amount of white glue can vary. For example, fabric-based wallpapers require a thicker paste, often made with a ratio of 15 ounces of white glue to 15 ounces of wallpaper powder. Specialized pastes for wall cloths can cover up to 5 square meters per kilogram, making them ideal for larger areas.
3. Cutting the Wallpaper
Start by unrolling the wallpaper and checking the pattern and direction. Make sure the pattern is aligned correctly. Measure the wall height using a tape measure, then lay the wallpaper on a flat surface with the adhesive side facing up. Use a pencil to mark the length, and cut it with scissors. Be sure to leave 30–50 mm extra at both ends for trimming. Lay the cut pieces flat and label them according to their position for easier installation.
Mid-Stage Application
Soak a roller in the prepared paste for about 30 seconds. When applying the paste, roll it in one direction only, and angle the roller at 45 degrees to avoid wrinkles. Don’t go back and forth—this can cause bubbles or uneven coverage. Apply the paste evenly, and once the wallpaper is on the wall, use a plastic scraper to press out any air bubbles. For rubber-backed wallpapers, you can gently scrape the surface to remove bubbles. If excess glue appears, wipe it off immediately with a damp sponge. Avoid using hard tools that could damage the surface, especially for high-quality textile wallpapers. For paper wallpapers, be extra careful and avoid getting glue on the surface. If it happens, clean it right away, as dried glue can cause discoloration.
Final Inspection & Fixes
After installation, check for:
- Seams that are misaligned or curled
- Bubbles under the wallpaper
- Mismatched patterns
- Creases or folds
Common Fixes:
- Loose Seams: Cut open the seam, inject glue, smooth it with a scraper, and wipe away excess.
- Bubbles: Cut a small slit, inject glue, and smooth with a flat tool.
- Pattern Mismatch: This may be due to structural issues like uneven settling. Realign the pattern if possible.
- Creases: Cut along the crease, add glue, and roll it flat. If needed, use the “refill†method.
- Wet Stains: These are rare but may indicate wall problems. Consult an expert if found.
- Black Spots: Often caused by mold or water damage. Remove the wallpaper, treat the affected area, and reapply a mildew-resistant glue.
Wedge Anchor
Wedge Anchor
Hebei Qianmu Fastener Manufacturing Co., Ltd , https://www.qmjgjfasteners.com