Tips for Choosing Wallpaper

 Yes, the choice of wallpapers can be daunting, but allow yourself time to peruse as many wallpaper books as you can find. Many types of wallcoverings are available. Each requires slightly different preparation, application, and finishing work according to its characteristics:

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Standard papers are inexpensive and generally easy to hang. Just be careful not to tug on the paper too hard as you position and reposition the sheets on the wall.

Vinyl-coated papers have a paper backing and a paper surface that’s sealed with a liquid vinyl. This seal makes the wallcovering washable, meaning that you can safely sponge it off with soapy water.

Solid sheet vinyl wallcoverings consist of vinyl bound to a cloth or paper backing. These wallcoverings are the most rugged, stain resistant, and scrubbable and make an excellent choice for kitchens.

Vinyls are the best choice for a beginning wallpaper hanger. Not only are they the easiest type of wallcovering to hang, but they’re also easy to live with — they’re durable, soil resistant, and easy to clean. They’re even easy to remove

Foils and Mylars are good choices for small rooms with little or no natural light. The wall surface must be in nearly perfect condition, however, because the wallpaper’s shiny surfaces accentuate any imperfections.

Grasscloth, hemp, and other cloths-on-paper are richly textured, woven coverings with laminated paper backings. All are good choices to cover less-than-perfect walls, but they are expensive and relatively difficult to hang.

Flocked papers have raised, velvety patterns and are good choices for covering walls that have minor surface imperfections. Washable flocks are easier to install than nonwashable ones, but both are expensive, and installation generally requires a pro.