How to Hang Unpasted Wallpaper: A Step-by-Step Guide
Hanging unpasted wallpaper may seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, anyone can achieve a professional-looking finish. Whether you’re looking to refresh a single room or transform your entire home, learning how to properly hang unpasted wallpaper can add character and style to your space.
To start, gather essential supplies such as wallpaper paste, a roller or brush, and a smoothing tool. Laying the wallpaper strips face down and applying the paste evenly ensures a smooth application process. By carefully folding the wallpaper onto itself and then unfolding it as you apply it to the wall, you can prevent creases and bubbles for a flawless finish.
With patience and attention to detail, hanging unpasted wallpaper can be a rewarding DIY project. By following these best practices, you'll achieve beautiful, long-lasting results. Ready to transform your space? Let’s dive into the steps and tips for hanging unpasted wallpaper like a pro.
Required Tools and Materials
A successful unpasted wallpaper project requires specific tools and materials to measure, align, apply, and ensure a smooth finish without damage or mess.
Tools for Measuring and Marking
Accurate measurements are crucial. A tape measure ensures each wallpaper strip is cut to the correct length. A level helps keep the wallpaper straight, avoiding unsightly crooked lines. A pencil is useful for lightly marking guideline points on the wall. A straight edge assists in drawing precise lines and can double as a cutting guide.
Wallpaper Application Tools
Applying unpasted wallpaper requires adhesive and tools to apply it efficiently. A paste brush or paint roller is essential for spreading the wallpaper paste evenly. The wallpaper is applied to the wall using a smoothing tool or squeegee to remove air bubbles and wrinkles. A ladder or step stool provides the necessary height to reach top sections of the wall safely.
Trimming and Cleaning Tools
Trimming excess wallpaper requires a utility knife or razor for clean cuts. A straight edge ensures precision during trimming. After trimming, use a sponge to wipe away any excess adhesive and to smooth seams. A seam roller secures edges and seams, preventing them from lifting. A putty knife is useful for tucking the paper into corners and edges neatly. Finally, a screwdriver may be needed to temporarily remove any wall fixtures that could obstruct the wallpaper installation.
Using the right tools and materials ensures that the wallpaper will be hung neatly and securely.
Preparation of the Work Area
Before hanging unpasted wallpaper, it is crucial to prepare the work area properly. This ensures a smooth application process and a professional-looking finish.
Protecting the Space
Start by protecting the floors and any furniture. Place a drop cloth or an old sheet on the floor to catch any stray adhesive or wallpaper paste. This also prevents damage or stains.
Move any furniture out of the way or cover it with drop cloths to keep it clean. Tape plastic sheets over light switches and electrical outlets to protect them from paste.
Having a clean, organized space will help avoid mishaps and make the wallpapering process more efficient.
Surface Preparation
Clean the walls thoroughly using water and regular soap. Remove all dust, dirt, and grease to help the wallpaper adhere better.
Fill in nail or tack holes with spackle and sand until smooth. Ensure that the wall surface is flat and even. Primer can be applied if the walls are too porous or if you're working with a bold or dark color. A dedicated wallpaper primer can also enhance adhesion.
Set up a clean work surface for cutting each panel. This could be a table covered with a protective sheet to keep the wallpaper from getting dirty. Proper preparation of the wall surface is key to achieving a seamless finish.
Wall Measurements and Calculations
Accurate wall measurements and calculations are crucial before starting to hang unpasted wallpaper. These steps ensure an efficient and smooth installation process.
Measuring Wall Dimensions
To start, use a tape measure to determine the height and width of each wall. Measure from the baseboard to the ceiling for height and from one corner to the other for width. Note down each measurement.
If the wall has windows, doors, or other obstacles, measure their dimensions and subtract these areas from the total wall area. Account for extra length if using wallpapers with patterns to ensure pattern match alignment.
- Tools Needed: Tape measure, notebook, pencil
- Important Factors: Wall height, wall width, obstacles, pattern alignment
Calculating Wallpaper Quantity
Calculate the total square footage by multiplying the height by the width of each wall. Sum these areas to get the overall amount.
Next, determine how many wallpaper rolls are needed. Wallpaper is typically sold in rolls of standard sizes. Check the coverage area stated on the wallpaper roll packaging.
If your wallpaper has a repeating pattern, add extra length to each strip for the pattern match. Typically, it’s recommended to purchase 10-15% extra wallpaper to account for errors and adjustments.
- Total Wall Area: Height * Width
- Roll Coverage: Check the manufacturer's details
- Extra Wallpaper: Consider pattern repeats and errors
Wallpaper Preparation
Efficient wallpaper preparation is essential for a successful installation process. Key steps include accurately cutting the wallpaper and prepping it for paste application, ensuring a smooth and neat finish on your walls.
Cutting the Wallpaper
Start by measuring the height of the wall from the floor to the ceiling, adding an extra 4-6 inches to accommodate trimming at the top and bottom. Roll out the wallpaper on a flat surface, face down.
Use a ruler and utility knife to cut each strip to length, making sure edges are straight. For patterns, ensure the design aligns properly across different strips.
Label each strip with a pencil on the backing, noting the order in which they’ll be hung. This avoids confusion during installation.
Preparing for Paste Application
Place a drop cloth or old sheet on the floor to protect it from adhesive spills. Lay the wallpaper strips face down on a clean table.
Use a wallpaper brush or roller to apply the paste evenly to the back of the wallpaper, starting from the center and working outward to avoid air bubbles.
After applying the paste, fold the wallpaper by bringing both ends to the center, paste side in, to ensure the paste moistens evenly. Let it rest for a few minutes before hanging.
Applying Paste
Applying paste correctly is crucial for successfully hanging unpasted wallpaper. This process involves selecting the right adhesive and using the proper techniques to ensure a smooth application.
Choosing the Right Adhesive
Selecting the appropriate wallpaper adhesive is the first step. Use a high-quality wallpaper paste designed specifically for unpasted wallpaper. Prepare the paste according to the manufacturer's instructions, as this ensures optimal performance.
If using a "paste the wall" method, a pre-mixed adhesive is often recommended. These are easier to apply and reduce the risk of air bubbles. Always check the wallpaper's packaging for any specific adhesive recommendations.
Paste Application Techniques
To apply the paste, lay the wallpaper strips face down on a flat surface. Use a paste brush or roller to spread the adhesive evenly from the center outwards. Ensure that the paste covers all edges to prevent peeling.
For some types, only the wall needs pasting. In this case, use a roller to spread the paste evenly on the wall where the strip will hang. Allow the paste to "cure" for about 10 minutes if instructed. This step helps the paste to activate, ensuring better adhesion. Be careful not to crease the wallpaper during this process.
Hanging the Wallpaper
To successfully hang unpasted wallpaper, it's crucial to ensure precise alignment and thorough adhesion. These steps will help achieve a professional result.
Aligning the First Strip
Start by marking a vertical line on the wall where the first strip will be hung. A laser plumb is highly recommended for this task to ensure perfect alignment. Cut the wallpaper strip to the required length, adding a few extra inches for trimming.
Activate the paste by applying it evenly on the back of the strip. Lay the strip face down on a flat surface like a table covered with a drop cloth. Use a roller or brush to apply the paste, making sure to cover the edges well. Once the paste is applied, fold the strip back to the middle to let it book (set) for a few minutes.
Carefully position the strip against the vertical line you marked, starting from the top. Smooth the strip down as you go, making sure it aligns correctly.
Smoothing and Adhering the Wallpaper
To smooth the wallpaper and ensure it adheres properly, use a smoothing tool such as a wallpaper brush or a flexible smoothing blade. Begin from the center and work your way outwards to remove any air bubbles and wrinkles.
Take care not to stretch or tear the paper. A utility knife is essential for trimming excess wallpaper at the edges and around fixtures. Cut carefully along the edges, applying gentle pressure to ensure clean lines.
Repeat the process for additional strips, ensuring each new strip aligns perfectly with the previous one. Use caution to match any patterns accurately and maintain a seamless look.
Finishing Touches
For a polished look, attention to detail in trimming edges and ensuring clean seams is crucial. Efficient cleaning after installation maintains the wallpaper's appearance and longevity.
Trimming Excess and Perfecting Seams
After applying each wallpaper strip, it's essential to trim the excess carefully. Use a straight edge and a sharp utility knife to cut the wallpaper at the top and bottom. Perform this step while the wallpaper is still damp with adhesive. This ensures that the cuts are clean and straight.
To achieve smooth seams, employ a seam roller. Gently roll the seams to secure the edges and prevent lifting. Using a squeegee or smoothing brush can help remove air bubbles and ensure the wallpaper adheres properly. Regularly check for any lifting or misaligned seams.
Cleaning and Post-Installation Care
Once the wallpaper is hung and seams are perfected, cleaning any excess paste is vital. A damp sponge can effectively remove adhesive from the surface. Gently wipe without applying too much pressure to avoid damaging the wallpaper.
Regular post-installation care includes using a damp cloth to clean the wallpaper periodically. This maintains its appearance and removes any dirt or grime. Avoid harsh chemicals that can weaken the adhesive over time. Finally, inspect the seams occasionally and use a seam roller if any edges begin to lift.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Hanging unpasted wallpaper can sometimes lead to various challenges such as air bubbles, creases, and misaligned patterns. Addressing these problems promptly ensures a flawless finish.
Dealing with Air Bubbles and Creases
Air bubbles often form during the application of wallpaper, especially with vinyl materials. To manage these, use a wallpaper smoothing tool or a soft cloth to gently push bubbles towards the edges of the paper.
In case of stubborn bubbles or creases, using a pin to puncture and release trapped air can be effective. After piercing, smooth the area once more to flatten it. Always work from the center of the bubble towards the edges for the best results.
Creases can emerge if the wallpaper is not handled carefully. Always ensure the paper is not overly stretched during application. If a crease does form, gently lift the affected section and reapply it, ensuring the adhesive is evenly spread.
Fixing Misaligned Patterns
Aligning patterns correctly is vital for a seamless look. Start by measuring and marking a plumb line on the wall to guide the first strip. For wallpapers with complex patterns, dry-fit the strips before applying paste to ensure patterns match properly.
If a pattern does become misaligned, carefully peel back the strip and reposition it. Reapply paste if necessary to maintain adherence. Make use of levels and rulers to keep the alignment true as you work across the wall.
Pattern matching can be easier if you cut the strips so that they begin at the same point in the design. This minimizes visible seams and ensures a harmonious pattern flow.