Wallpaper can dramatically transform a room, adding personality, color, and texture. But the thought of putting it up yourself might seem daunting. Is it really that difficult? The answer, like most things, is: it depends. This comprehensive guide explores the factors that influence the difficulty of wallpapering and provides a step-by-step approach to help you achieve a smooth and successful installation. Is putting up wallpaper difficult?
Factors Affecting Wallpapering Difficulty
Is putting up wallpaper difficult? Several factors contribute to the overall difficulty of putting up wallpaper:
- Type of Wallpaper: Traditional wallpaper requires paste and careful alignment. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is generally easier to apply, offering more forgiveness for adjustments.
- Wall Condition: Smooth, primed walls are ideal for wallpapering. Uneven walls or those with imperfections can make the process more challenging.
- Pattern Complexity: Large, intricate patterns require precise matching, increasing the complexity of installation. Smaller, simpler patterns are often easier to align.
- Room Size and Shape: Small rooms with fewer obstacles like windows and doors are generally easier to wallpaper than large, complex spaces.
- Your DIY Experience: Prior experience with DIY projects and a knack for precision can make wallpapering easier. However, with patience and the right guidance, even beginners can achieve great results.
Tools and Materials: Gathering Your Supplies
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- Wallpaper: Choose a wallpaper that suits your style and room.
- Wallpaper Paste (if needed): Select the appropriate paste for your wallpaper type.
- Measuring Tape and Pencil: Essential for accurate measurements and marking.
- Plumb Bob or Level: Ensures your first strip is perfectly vertical.
- Utility Knife and Scissors: For cutting wallpaper to size.
- Smoothing Tool or Brush: Helps smooth out wrinkles and air bubbles.
- Sponge and Bucket: For cleaning up excess paste.
- Stepladder: Provides safe access to higher areas.
- Drop Cloths: Protect your floors and furniture from paste spills.
Preparing the Walls: The Foundation for Success
Proper wall preparation is crucial for a smooth and successful wallpaper installation.
Clean the Walls
Remove any dust, dirt, or debris with a damp sponge.
Repair Imperfections
Fill any holes or cracks with spackle and sand smooth.
Prime the Walls
Apply a primer to create a smooth and even surface for the wallpaper to adhere to. This is especially important for porous walls or those with a dark color.
Let the Primer Dry
Allow the primer to dry completely before applying wallpaper.
Hanging the First Strip: Setting the Stage
The first strip of wallpaper is crucial, as it sets the alignment for the rest of the room.
- Measure and Mark: Measure the width of your wallpaper and mark a vertical line on the wall using a plumb bob or level. This line will guide your first strip.
- Cut the Wallpaper: Cut the first strip of wallpaper to the desired length, adding a few extra inches for trimming.
- Apply Paste (if needed): If using traditional wallpaper, apply paste evenly to the back of the wallpaper strip. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Position and Smooth: Carefully position the first strip along the marked line, leaving a small overlap at the ceiling and baseboard. Use a smoothing tool or brush to smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles.
Hanging Subsequent Strips: Maintaining Alignment
Once the first strip is in place, continue hanging the remaining strips, carefully matching the pattern and maintaining alignment.
- Measure and Cut: Measure and cut each strip, ensuring it aligns with the pattern on the previous strip.
- Apply Paste (if needed): Apply paste to the back of each strip.
- Overlap and Smooth: Overlap the edges of each strip slightly with the previous one, carefully matching the pattern. Smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles.
- Trim Excess: Use a utility knife to trim the excess wallpaper at the ceiling and baseboard.
Wallpapering around corners, windows, and doors can be challenging. Is putting up wallpaper difficult?
- Corners: Measure and cut the wallpaper to wrap around the corner, leaving a small overlap. Smooth the wallpaper into the corner and trim any excess.
- Windows and Doors: Measure and cut the wallpaper to fit around the window or door frame. Make relief cuts to allow the wallpaper to fold around the corners. Smooth and trim any excess.
Finishing Touches: Completing the Look
Once all the wallpaper is hung, take these final steps:
- Wipe Away Excess Paste: Use a damp sponge to gently wipe away any excess paste.
- Inspect for Imperfections: Check for any missed spots or imperfections and touch them up as needed.
- Enjoy Your New Look: Step back and admire your beautifully wallpapered room!
Tips for Success: Achieving a Professional Finish
- Take Your Time: Wallpapering requires patience and precision. Don’t rush the process.
- Work in Sections: Break the room into smaller sections to make the project more manageable.
- Use a Sharp Blade: A sharp utility knife will ensure clean and precise cuts.
- Enlist a Helper: Having an extra set of hands can be helpful, especially for aligning and smoothing larger strips of wallpaper.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process, seek advice from a professional or experienced DIYer.
While wallpapering might require some effort and attention to detail, it’s a rewarding DIY project that can transform your space. With the right preparation, tools, and techniques, you can achieve a professional-looking finish and enjoy the beauty of your newly wallpapered room.
Wallpapering Challenges: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful preparation and execution, you might encounter some challenges while wallpapering. Here are some common issues and how to address them:
- Air Bubbles: Use a smoothing tool or brush to gently push air bubbles towards the edges of the wallpaper. If bubbles persist, you can carefully prick them with a pin and smooth out the air.
- Wrinkles: Gently lift the wallpaper and reposition it to smooth out wrinkles. If the wrinkle is stubborn, you can try using a hairdryer on a low setting to warm the wallpaper and make it more pliable.
- Mismatched Patterns: If you notice a pattern mismatch, carefully peel back the wallpaper and reposition it until the pattern aligns correctly.
- Seams Showing: Ensure the edges of the wallpaper are butted together tightly, not overlapping. Use a seam roller to press the seams firmly for a seamless look.
- Paste on the Wallpaper Surface: Wipe away any excess paste from the surface of the wallpaper immediately with a damp sponge.
Wallpaper Removal: Undoing Your Work
Is putting up wallpaper difficult? If you need to remove the wallpaper in the future, here are some tips:
- Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper: This type of wallpaper is generally easy to remove. Simply peel it off the wall, starting at a corner.
- Traditional Wallpaper: You may need to use a wallpaper steamer or a scoring tool to loosen the adhesive before removing the wallpaper.
- Professional Help: For stubborn wallpaper or if you’re unsure about the removal process, consider hiring a professional wallpaper remover.
Wallpaper Alternatives: Exploring Other Options
If you’re hesitant about tackling a full wallpapering project, consider these alternatives:
- Accent Walls: Wallpaper a single wall to create a focal point in the room.
- Wallpaper Panels: Use wallpaper panels to create a decorative feature or headboard.
- Wall Murals: Wall murals offer a large-scale design that can make a bold statement.
- Temporary Wallpaper: Temporary wallpaper is a great option for renters or those who like to change their decor frequently.
