Wallpaper Installation and Removal

Types Of Wallpaper

• Paper-backed vinyl: most common type, durable, and easy to clean
• Non-woven: breathable, moisture-resistant, and easy to install
• Natural fibers: made from natural materials like grasscloth, reed, or bamboo
• Flock: textured, velvety finish, and often used in traditional or luxury designs
• Wallpaper murals: large, single-piece designs that create a scene or image
• Border wallpaper: narrow strips of paper used to add a decorative accent

Wall Preparation

• Cleanliness: ensure walls are free of dirt, grime, and old adhesive
• Repair: fill holes and cracks with joint compound and sand smooth
• Prime: apply a coat of primer to create a uniform surface
• Remove old paper: scrape off old wallpaper, taking care not to damage the wall
• Check for moisture: ensure walls are dry and free of water damage

Removal Methods

• Steamer: uses hot water vapor to loosen adhesive, effective for paper-backed vinyl
• Scraping: uses a putty knife or scraper to remove paper, often used for non-woven
• Chemical remover: applies a solution to dissolve adhesive, suitable for most types
• Perforation: uses a tool to create small holes in the paper, allowing for easier removal

Pattern Matching

• Straight match: pattern repeats every 20-25 inches, aligned with the ceiling
• Offset match: pattern repeats every 20-25 inches, but offset by half the repeat
• Free match: no specific alignment required, often used for random or texture-based designs
• Drop match: pattern repeats every 20-25 inches, but drops down by a certain number of inches

Hanging Techniques

• Paste-the-wall: apply adhesive directly to the wall, suitable for most papers
• Paste-the-paper: apply adhesive to the back of the paper, often used for delicate designs
• Starting point: begin hanging from the center of the wall, working outward in sections
• Alignment: use a level and a straightedge to ensure strips are aligned and plumb
• Overlapping: apply each strip with a slight overlap, ensuring a seamless joint

Test your knowledge of different types of wallpaper, wall preparation, removal methods, pattern matching, and hanging techniques.