How to make decision when you get wallpaper ?
How to make decision when you get wallpaper ?
Do I need an interior decorator?
No, as long as you are willing to invest the time to browse through the wallpaper books to find the wallpaper that suits your taste. If you are unsure about what wallpapers will complement your home decor, most home improvement centers and wallpaper stores have associates who will be able to assist you. Home improvement and wallpaper stores generally sell for 10-50% (or more) off of full list price.
Can I hang it myself? What are the wallpaper tips for DIY?
Yes. There are numerous resources available online and at home improvement stores to aid in self-installation. First-time installers should avoid kitchens and bathrooms, as these are more complicated. Certain types of wallpaper should only be hung by professionals and you must match your particular skill level, wallpaper type, and complexity of application to give you a fair indication whether it’s time to call for help.
Can I repair a small tear?
Yes, and if done properly, the repair is practically invisible. As illustrated below, place a larger piece of wallpaper over the tear so that it makes an exact match with the wallpaper on the wall. Use a razor knife (with new blade) to double-cut through both layers around the tear. Remove both layers, clean the exposed wall area and re-paste the new piece into the area. After 15 minutes lightly seam-roll the fitted edge. Note that an irregular, wavy cut following the design in the wallpaper will make your cut less noticeable. If there is a pattern around the damaged area, attempt as much as possible to follow this pattern with your cuts, as this will camouflage the repair as well.
Can I hang wallpaper over old paneling, brick, textured walls, etc.?
Absolutely. Start with good preparation by removing all nails or other protruding objects. For textured surfaces, "knock down" any high points. For paneling, now is the time to ensure that the paneling is secure. Do this by adding additional nails if needed. For slick surfaces/paneling, wash with TSP (TriSodium Phosphate) or equivalent grease cutting cleaner.
Now, you can hang bridging material. This is thick, blank wallpaper designed for irregular surfaces. Once hung, this will "bridge" the grooves in paneling or other unusual surface allowing for the ultimate application of wallpaper or paint.
Alternate/additional advice: The application of joint compound to the grooves of paneling is an additional precaution when using bridging material. Some wallpaper installers use the "joint compound, then primer" technique instead of bridging material.
What types of wallpaper are there?
There are many types of wallpaper. Wallpaper consists of a backing material and a surface layer. The backing material could one of the four major types and the surface layer could be paper, fabric, vinyl, natural textile, or one of many other types.
Should I inspect my wallpaper when I receive it?
Yes. When you receive it, check the wallpaper you have purchased roll by roll to ensure you have the correct pattern, color and sufficient quantity of the same lot number. There are many flaws you can spot even with new wallpaper right from the store or shipping company. Some of them include damaged edges, un-even coloring from side to side or roll to roll, or other flaws.
