Applying Wallpaper the Proper Way

There are many things to consider when wallpapering. You need to decide which color and type will match each room. Choose vinyl for kitchens and bathrooms, and non-woven papers and fabrics for bedrooms. The specific adhesive to use for the chosen wallpaper is among the things you must plan ahead for.

For the proper hanging of wallpaper, follow these simple steps.

Preparation

Use a sponge dipped in light detergent to wipe down the walls and make them clean. Use sandpaper to remove imperfections as soon as the walls are dry. A smooth wall surface will allow the wallpaper to adhere better. With a large putty knife and a drywall compound, fill in uneven areas. Let it dry overnight, then sand it smooth again. Use a damp sponge or soft cloth to remove the dust. Wait until the wall is dry.

Primer applied with a roller or a brush will help the wallpaper stick more evenly. Be careful when working along trim. Wait for two hours to let the primer dry. Draw a guideline on the wall using a straightedge and a level to make sure the line is plumb. Your first wallpaper sheet should be perfectly level.

Application

Take time to measure and cut your wallpaper. Make sure the cuts are clean. Leave an extra four inches at the top. Reverse-curl the paper if it’s curling up on itself. With a figure-eight motion, apply adhesive on the flatly spread-out paper. It may be hard to grip the wallpaper, so fold it on itself at the edges where you’re handling it. Apply it on the wall, aligning it with the guidelines. Leave a couple of extra inches at the top and bottom, so you don’t have a hard time gripping it.

Smooth the wallpaper with the smoothing brush or a wallpaper sweep. Air will most likely get trapped underneath. This is typical, and it should go away as the wallpaper settles and the adhesive dries. If it doesn’t, puncture the bubble with a small pin and flatten out the paper with the wallpaper sweep. Trim away excess ends using a utility knife. Use a putty knife as a guide. All that’s left is to repeat the hanging process until you have covered all walls. Press the seams together using a roller.

If you think these simple steps are not enough for you to do the job well, ask for professional help. Call Handyman Connection of Matthews at (704) 255-5626.