Wallpapering

Wallpapering is the process of applying wallpaper to interior walls or ceilings to decorate, insulate, and protect surfaces. It involves selecting wallcovering, preparing the surface, applying adhesive, aligning strips, and finishing seams. Modern wallpapering encompasses a range of materials, from traditional paper to vinyl and fabric textures.

Common wallcoverings include paper, vinyl, vinyl-coated, fabric-backed vinyl, foil, grasscloth, and peel-and-stick variants. Some coverings are pre-pasted; others require separate wallpaper paste. Adhesives vary by product, including traditional starch or methylcellulose for paper, vinyl-based pastes for vinyl coverings, and ready-to-use pastes for nonwoven options.

Preparation is essential: remove or thoroughly loosen existing wallpaper, repair holes, smooth rough patches, clean and dry the surface, and prime porous substrates if recommended. Tools commonly used include a tape measure, level, plumb line, straightedge, scissors, utility knife, paste brush or roller, seam roller, smoothing cloth, sponge, bucket, and a ladder.

Installation involves planning the layout and pattern matching (straight, drop, or offset). Cut strips to fit the wall, apply adhesive as required, and position strips starting with a plumb line. Align edges carefully, smooth with a seam roller or smoothing cloth, and wipe away excess paste. Trim edges with a sharp knife and allow the wallpaper to dry undisturbed. Avoid excess moisture, prolonged heat, or direct sunlight during curing.

Removal and maintenance vary by product. Some wallpapers are removable with little residue, while traditional coverings may require solvents or scoring and soaking. Regular cleaning depends on the material; vinyl and coated wallcoverings are typically washable, while paper may be more sensitive to moisture.