Everything you need to know about wallpaper

How do I choose the right wallpaper for my space?

Selecting the perfect wallpaper for your room involves considering the room’s style, colour scheme, and purpose. It’s important to choose a design that complements the existing decor and creates the desired ambiance. We always suggest you speak to an interior designer or architect when it comes to styles and designs, and us/the installer when it comes to any technical enquiries and questions. We know where our strengths lie. 

What types of wallpaper are available?

There are various types of wallpaper materials and styles to choose from, such as grass cloth, silk, wood veneer, vinyl, traditional English pulps etc. Each type has its unique features, so it’s essential to explore your options to find the one that best suits your needs.

Can I apply wallpaper by myself, or do I need a professional installer?

Time and money permitting, of course. But we highly recommended you consider enlisting the services of a professional wallpaper installer. Professionals possess the experience, tools, and expertise to ensure that your wallpaper is flawlessly applied, patterns align perfectly, and seams are virtually invisible, creating a stunning and long-lasting result that can transform your space into a work of art. If you want to achieve the highest level of quality and craftsmanship, entrusting your wallpaper installation to a skilled professional is often the wisest choice.

How do I prepare my walls before applying wallpaper?

Proper wall preparation before wallpaper installation is a fundamental step that significantly influences the final outcome. The surface must be meticulously cleaned, imperfections patched, and primed to ensure the wallpaper adheres smoothly and flawlessly, especially if you are dealing with an older Heritage property. Hiring a professional for this preparatory work is strongly recommended for several reasons. Professionals have an eye for detail and the necessary skills to identify and address imperfections that might be missed by an inexperienced individual. Their expertise in wall preparation directly impacts the quality of the finish – a well-prepared wall ensures that the wallpaper will lay flat, patterns will align perfectly, and seams will be virtually invisible. By entrusting this critical stage to a professional, you’re more likely to achieve a stunning, long-lasting result that truly enhances your space.

What tools and materials do I need for wallpaper installation?

To install wallpaper, you will need…

Hand tools: Plastic spatula, rush, seam roller, cutting knives, tape measure, cloths, shears, a wallpaper table, ladder and materials: primer, wallpaper adhesive and lining paper.  

Is it possible to remove wallpaper, and how do I do it without damaging the wall?

Yes, you can remove wallpaper but there is a high chance of damaging the wall unless you seek professional guidance. 

How much wallpaper do I need?

First things first, have you seen our quantifying guide? Accurately determining the quantity of wallpaper required for your room is a critical step to ensure a successful installation and to prevent wastage or shortages. To estimate the necessary amount, you should measure the walls’ height and width in linear feet or meters. However, this process can be complex, especially when dealing with patterned wallpaper, corner spaces, or irregularly shaped rooms. Here’s where seeking a professional opinion becomes invaluable:

Pattern Matching: Professionals understand the intricacies of pattern matching. Depending on the wallpaper design, it may be necessary to calculate extra wallpaper to ensure that patterns align correctly at seams and corners. This is essential for achieving a polished look.

Wall Irregularities: Walls are rarely perfectly straight, and professionals know how to account for irregularities by measuring and cutting the wallpaper accurately. They also know how to handle obstacles like windows, doors, and outlets.

Waste Reduction: Professionals can help you minimise waste by optimising the use of wallpaper rolls. They have the experience to make efficient cuts and layouts, reducing the number of rolls needed.

By consulting a professional, you can ensure that your wallpaper project is quantified accurately. They will consider all these factors, helping you purchase the right amount of wallpaper for your project. This not only saves you money but also ensures a seamless and visually appealing finish, as a professional’s expertise extends beyond installation to planning and preparation.

Can I use wallpaper in a bathroom or kitchen?

Yes, you can use wallpaper in these areas, but it’s important to choose moisture-resistant options and ensure proper ventilation to prevent damage from humidity and moisture. Always think about your ventilation, too. You use moisture to remove wallpaper, so you want to remove moisture from the air. The amount of traffic and the usage in those rooms will dictate how delicate with the wallcovering you can go. There is the option of using a matte varnish over the top for added protection but you would need to do a sample first.