10 Things You Should Know About Hanging Wallpaper

These are the facts you should know before you install wallpaper.

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wallpaper is not just paper anymore

Choose the Right Type of Wallpaper for Your Needs

There is a vast variety of wallpaper colors and styles to choose from. Vinyl is great for areas with a lot of moisture such as kitchens and bathrooms. For places that stay dry such as bedrooms and hallways, it's best to use non-woven papers and fabrics.

there are specific adhesives for specific paper

Choose the Right Adhesive for Your Wallpaper

There are specific adhesives for specific paper, and it's important to know the difference between paper and vinyl. Check the label on your wallpaper for the right one.

round up measurements and always get extra paper

Round Up Your Measurements

Rounding your measurements will give you extra paper to work with. Always order two to four more rolls of paper for waste and overages. Mistakes will happen whether you're a professional or not, and stores will sometimes discontinue a certain style, so you'll be glad later if you get extra paper now.

wallpaper must be level

Leveling is Critical

Your paper has to be level -- and even if it is, your house may not be. Always make sure your first sheet is perfectly level. If things aren't flush when you get to a corner, get out the measuring tape.

clean walls before installing wallpaper

Start With Smooth Walls

It's very important to start with a smooth wall surface. Lightly sand your walls and then scrub them down with a wet sponge and light detergent.

plot out where seams are going to be

Know Where You're Going Before You Begin

Always plot out where your seams are going to be on the wall. If you don't, you could end up with a mismatched pattern in the middle of your wall.

proper way to cut wallpaper is with razor

Don't Re-Use Razors

Razors dull quickly, so don't use them sparingly. Keep your cuts clean to avoid rips. Purchase a box of a hundred so you'll have plenty of extras on hand.

booking paper allows it to naturally expand

Always Book the Wallpaper

If you don't book your paper for about five minutes, it will expand after it's on the wall and cause seams and bubbles.

use a wallpaper sweep and not a brush

Use a Wallpaper Sweep

Make sure you user a wallpaper sweep and not a brush. You can buy one for a few dollars at any home improvement store.

flatten out paper with wallpaper sweep

Don't Panic If You See Bubbles

When installing your paper, air will most likely get trapped in between -- this is typical, and it should go away as the wallpaper settles and the adhesive dries. If it doesn't, just puncture the bubble with a small pin and gently flatten out the paper with the wallpaper sweep.