Wallpaper - Tips for the First Timer
Guy Morris
Buying and hanging wallpaper can seem like a daunting task. There are so many patterns to choose from and it's important to install it properly because the workmanship will be on display. Here are some tips to installing and choosing wallpaper that will make your first wallpaper experience a bit less stressful.
First, you need to choose the wallpaper and much of this depends on the room you'll be installing it in. You want it to match the dcor of the room but you also want to think about the material. A vinyl wallpaper is best for the kitchen, bathroom, or the entire house if you live in a humid climate. Vinyl will help repel moisture while fabric wall paper is fine for other rooms and dryer climates.
Wallpaper is purchased in rolls and you need to determine how many rolls you'll need. Properly measure the room that you'll be hanging the wallpaper. The less pattern repeat there is, the more wallpaper you'll need since there will be waste in matching the pattern. There are tools online to help you determine how much you'll need. Most home improvement stores will allow you to return unused rolls so you can overestimate. Make sure you buy rolls of the same lot since slight color changes will show especially if they are installed side by side.
After you have your wallpaper, you'll want to get the right tools. Don't worry, you won't need anything as complicated as a table top router or anything. There are complete kits you can buy or you can buy the tools separately. You need a razor knife, scissors, measuring tape, sponges and a seam roller. Depending on the room you may also need a foot stool or ladder. If adhesive is not already applied to the wallpaper then you'll need to buy adhesive made for wallpaper.
Prepare the surface by removing all outlet plates and clean the surface of dirt and grease. Repair any imperfections in the wall such as uneven areas and holes. Choose a place to start that is inconspicuous such as behind a door or under a window since you might have to mismatch later. Draw a vertical line from top to bottom. Make sure it is straight so use a leveler if possible.
Prepare the paper by wetting it if it comes with self adhesive or mix wallpaper glue and dip it. After you have dipped the wallpaper it will be impossible to keep it straight so "book" the paper back and forth but do not crease it. Creases will show after the wallpaper dries and will be impossible to fix. Hang the wallpaper along the vertical "plum" line. Attach subsequent strips in the same manner, ensuring the pattern is accurately matched.
With these few tips, you should be able to tackle your first wallpaper project. Take your time, do it right, and the end result will be professional.
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