Wallpaper is a timeless way to add style, texture, and personality to your home. Whether you’re looking to create a feature wall or completely transform a room, applying wallpaper can have a significant impact. If you’re considering wallpaper for your next home project, understanding how to apply it and the process of professional wallpaper installation can help you achieve the best results.
Applying Wallpaper: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re thinking of applying wallpaper yourself, here’s a straightforward guide to ensure you get a flawless finish:
1. Prepare Your Walls
Before you start applying wallpaper, the surface must be smooth, clean, and dry. Remove any existing wallpaper, dust, and debris, and repair any cracks or holes. For new walls, ensure the surface is properly primed to help the wallpaper stick securely. This step is crucial because imperfections can show through the wallpaper and ruin the overall effect.
2. Measure and Cut Your Wallpaper
Measure your wall height to determine how much wallpaper you will need for each section. Remember to add a little extra to each strip to account for trimming at the top and bottom. Cut your wallpaper rolls into strips, making sure each piece is a little longer than the wall height to allow for adjustments during installation.
3. Apply Paste (If Necessary)
Some wallpapers are pre-pasted, meaning they only require a little water to activate the adhesive. Others will need wallpaper paste applied to the back. If you are using paste, apply an even layer of paste to the wallpaper using a brush or roller, then fold the edges in toward the center to keep the paste from drying out while you prepare the wall.
4. Hang the Wallpaper
Start applying the wallpaper from a corner or a straight line, such as around a door frame. Align the top of the wallpaper with the ceiling and smooth it down using a wallpaper brush or smoother to eliminate air bubbles and wrinkles. Work your way down, ensuring the pattern lines up correctly. If you’re using patterned wallpaper, carefully match the designs to ensure they line up perfectly.
5. Trim the Edges
Once the wallpaper is applied, use a sharp utility knife to trim the excess wallpaper along the top and bottom edges. Be sure to cut neatly around switches, outlets, and corners to give a professional finish.
6. Clean Up
Finally, remove any paste from the surface of the wallpaper with a damp sponge, being careful not to soak the wallpaper. Allow it to dry naturally, and your room will be transformed!
Wallpaper and Installation: Why Hiring a Professional is Worth It
While DIY wallpapering can be a fun project, professional wallpaper and installation is often the best choice for achieving a seamless, long-lasting result. Here’s why:
Expertise and Precision
Professional wallpaper installers have the experience and skill to apply wallpaper efficiently and effectively. They know how to work with different wallpaper types, including textured, vinyl, and specialty wallpapers, ensuring a perfect finish every time. They also have the right tools for the job, which makes the installation process quicker and more precise.
Time-Saving
Wallpapering can be time-consuming, especially if you’re working with complex patterns or multiple rooms. Professional installers can complete the job much faster, allowing you to enjoy your newly transformed space without the stress and hassle of doing it yourself.
Flawless Finish
One of the main benefits of professional wallpaper installation is the high-quality finish. Installers know how to handle tricky corners, tricky edges, and pattern matching, ensuring the wallpaper is perfectly aligned. They can also tackle wall imperfections and make necessary repairs before applying the wallpaper, resulting in a smooth, stunning look.
Durability
Proper installation ensures your wallpaper stays in place longer, resisting peeling, bubbles, and warping. Professionals also use the right adhesives and techniques to ensure your wallpaper remains intact for years to come.
Cost of Professional Wallpaper Installation
While the upfront cost of hiring a professional might seem higher than doing it yourself, the results often justify the price. Professional installation generally ranges from $20 to $70 per square meter in Australia, depending on factors like room size, wallpaper complexity, and wall conditions.
At Deco & Co, we offer expert wallpaper installation services, helping you choose the right wallpaper and ensuring it’s installed perfectly. If you’re unsure about which style or pattern would suit your home, our team can guide you through the selection process to find the ideal wallpaper for your space.
Is Wallpaper Installation Worth It?
If you value a high-quality finish and a hassle-free experience, professional wallpaper installation is well worth the investment. While DIY wallpapering may save you money upfront, professional installation ensures a polished, long-lasting result that will enhance your home’s aesthetic.
Conclusion
Whether you’re applying wallpaper yourself or opting for professional wallpaper installation, there are a few key things to keep in mind: preparation is key, the right tools make a huge difference, and a professional touch can elevate your project. With a little effort and the right guidance, wallpaper can completely transform your space.