How to install wallpaper and change the decoration cheaply and quickly
Changing your home decor means creating a new space that reflects your personal style, which can have a significant impact on your mood and quality of life. However, many people think that redecorating requires expensive renovation costs. The truth is, it is possible to change your decor with minimal cost and in the shortest time. One of the simplest and most cost-effective methods for redecoration is installing wallpaper.
Wallpaper is a fast and effective way to update and transform your home’s space. Unlike painting the walls, which takes more time, wallpaper installation can be done quickly, and its wide variety of designs and colors allows you to easily create a beautiful space that suits your taste.
This article will guide you on how to easily prepare your walls for installation and teach you the precise steps for hanging wallpaper. Additionally, we’ll provide tips and tricks for easier installation and achieving a quick, affordable makeover. Finally, we’ll explain how to maintain and clean it after installation. This guide will cover every aspect of the process so you can make significant changes to your home with minimal expense.
Choosing the right wallpaper
One of the most important steps in installation is choosing the right type of wallpaper. Wallpapers come in various types in terms of material, design, and color, and should be selected based on the specific needs of each room and your personal taste. Here are some key points to consider when choosing wallpaper:
Wallpaper Color and Design
The color and design of the wallpaper have a significant impact on the overall room ambiance. If the room is small, it’s better to choose light colors and simple patterns, as these colors make the room appear larger and more open. If the room is large, you can opt for darker colors or more intricate designs to make the space feel cozier and warmer. For bedrooms, you can use calming colors like light blue or green, while for living rooms, bolder and more vibrant colors can be used.
Wallpaper Material
Wallpaper also varies greatly in terms of material. The most common types include:
Paper: The simplest and most common type, which is less expensive but has low resistance to moisture.
Vinyl: Made from vinyl layers, this type has high resistance to moisture and stains, making it ideal for spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.
Fabric: These have a more luxurious appearance and are suitable for living rooms. They can give a room a warm and elegant look.
Durability and Maintenance
Some wallpapers are washable and easy to clean, while others are only suitable for low-humidity areas. If you have children or pets at home, washable and stain-resistant wallpapers will be the best choice for you.
Budget
Many people, due to budget constraints, look for cheaper wallpaper options. However, it’s important to consider quality and durability along with the price. While cheap wallpapers may seem appealing at first, they might need to be replaced sooner. Therefore, it’s best to choose a wallpaper that fits your budget while still offering adequate quality.
Wall preparation before installation
Proper surface preparation is one of the key steps in installation. Uneven or stained walls can cause problems during installation and also damage the wallpaper. Here are the steps you need to follow to prepare the walls:
1- Cleaning the Wall
Before anything else, the walls must be thoroughly cleaned. Dust, grease, and any stains on the wall can prevent the adhesive from sticking properly. For this, use a damp cloth and mild cleaning detergents. If your wall has grease stains, use grease-removing cleaners.
2- Fixing Cracks and Holes
Cracks and holes in the wall should be repaired before installation. You can use wall filler or plaster for this. After filling the holes, smooth the surface with fine sandpaper to make the wall surface completely even.
3- Applying a Primer
If your wall is made of wood or plaster, you should apply a primer layer to help the adhesive stick better. The primer also acts as a protective layer, preventing moisture damage to the wall.
4- Measuring and Marking the Wall
After preparing the wall, it’s time to measure and mark the wall. To install the wallpaper correctly and evenly, you should use a measuring tape and plumb line. Marking reference points will help you install the wallpaper straight without any misalignment.
Tools needed for installing wallpaper
For installation, using the right tools is very important. These tools help you complete the task accurately and quickly, preventing potential issues. Here are the main tools needed for wallpaper installation:
1- Wallpaper Adhesive
Wallpaper adhesive is one of the most essential tools for installation. You should choose the specific adhesive for each type of wallpaper. Adhesives are generally available in two forms: powder and liquid. Liquid adhesives are usually ready to use and provide quicker installation, while powder adhesives need to be mixed with water.
2- Putty Knife or Spatula
A putty knife is used to smooth and even out the wallpaper surface after installation. This tool helps you remove excess air underneath the wallpaper and ensures it sticks properly.
3- Blade or Scissors
To cut wallpaper precisely, you will need a sharp blade. Wallpaper-specific blades create smooth, accurate cuts, which are crucial for installation. Scissors are also used to cut wallpaper around windows and doors.
4- Measuring Tape and Plumb Line
A measuring tape is essential for measuring the length and width of the walls. A plumb line is used to ensure the wallpaper is installed straight and even. With a plumb line, you can make sure the wallpaper is aligned correctly without any tilting.
5- Roller
A roller is used for applying adhesive to the wallpaper and also for sticking it to the wall. The roller helps spread the adhesive evenly across the surface of the wallpaper.
How to install wallpaper step by step
Installing wallpaper may seem complicated at first, but by following the steps correctly and carefully, it can be done easily. Below, the steps for installing wallpaper are explained in detail:
Step 1: Prepare the Adhesive
Prepare the wallpaper adhesive. For powdered adhesives, mix it with water and stir thoroughly until there are no clumps left. Then, let the adhesive rest for a few minutes to improve its performance.
Step 2: Cut the Wallpaper
Using a measuring tape and blade, cut the wallpaper to the size of the wall. It’s better to leave a few extra centimeters when cutting to make adjustments during installation.
Step 3: Apply the Adhesive
Use a putty knife or roller to apply the adhesive onto the surface of the wallpaper. The adhesive should be spread evenly across the entire surface of the wallpaper.
Step 4: Install the Wallpaper
Start installing the wallpaper from the top of the wall and work your way down. Use a plumb line and measuring tape to ensure that the wallpaper is aligned straight.
Step 5: Smooth and Cut Excess
After installing the wallpaper, use a putty knife to remove any excess air beneath the wallpaper and smooth it out. Then, use a blade to cut off any excess wallpaper around windows or doors.
Step 6: Clean Up
Once the installation is complete, carefully clean the surface of the wallpaper. Use a damp cloth to wipe off any excess adhesive.
Pro tips and tricks for easier installation
To install wallpaper professionally and without issues, there are several tips and tricks that can make your work easier:
- Use a Helper: Installing wallpaper, especially for large walls, can be difficult. Therefore, it’s a good idea to get someone to help you so that you can install the wallpaper accurately and quickly.
- Test the Adhesive: Before starting the installation, stick a small piece of wallpaper on the wall to check if the adhesive works properly.
- Maintain Straight Lines: To ensure accurate installation, always use a plumb line to check for straight lines.
- Act Quickly: Adhesives can dry quickly, so you must act fast and apply the adhesive immediately to the wallpaper.
Wallpaper maintenance and cleaning
Wallpaper retains its beauty for a long time, but it requires proper care and cleaning. Depending on the type of wallpaper, the cleaning method may vary. Here are some tips for better maintenance of your wallpaper:
- Daily Cleaning: To prevent dust and dirt accumulation, regularly dust the wallpapered walls with a soft cloth.
- Cleaning Stains: If your wallpaper is washable, you can clean stains with a damp sponge. However, if your wallpaper is not washable, use dry cleaners.
- Avoid Excess Moisture: Wallpaper installed in humid environments, such as bathrooms, requires more care. It’s better to use moisture-resistant and vinyl wallpaper for such areas.
- Repair and Restoration: If you notice any damage or tearing in the wallpaper, repair it promptly to prevent further damage.
Using wallpaper in different spaces of the house
Wallpaper, a popular choice for decorating, can be used in many different areas of the home. Choosing the right type and design for each space depends on the use and characteristics of that environment.
1- Living Room and Reception Area
The living room and reception area are spaces where people spend a lot of time, and therefore, they can reflect your personality and taste. For this space, you can use wallpapers with beautiful designs and various colors. Choosing warm colors or floral patterns can create a sense of warmth and intimacy.
2- Bedroom
For the bedroom, choose soft and calming colors like blue, green, or pastel tones. Simple or geometric patterns can create a more relaxing atmosphere for sleep.
3- Kitchen and Bathroom
For humid spaces like the kitchen and bathroom, it is better to use moisture-resistant or vinyl wallpaper. These types are easy to clean and have high resistance to moisture.
4- Hallways and Entrance Halls
In hallways and entrance halls, you can use wallpapers with embossed patterns or simple and classic designs to make these areas more appealing and pleasant.
The right time to change wallpaper
Wallpaper is one of the best ways to change up your home decor, but like any other element in your home, it may need replacing after a while. There are several factors that indicate it’s time for a change:
1- Damage to Wallpaper
If your wallpaper is damaged due to moisture, impact, or other environmental factors, it is best to replace it. Cracks, tears, or severe discoloration can damage the aesthetic of the wall.
2- Decline in Adhesive Quality
If your wallpaper starts peeling off the wall or is crooked at the corners, it indicates a decline in adhesive quality, and it is time to replace it.
3- Change in Decor Style
If you have changed the decor of your home or are looking for a new and updated space, your old wallpaper may no longer match the new decor and may need to be replaced.
4- Renovation and Design Change
Sometimes, the desire to change the wallpaper design arises as part of a renovation or updating the space. In this case, choosing a new design can make the space more attractive.
Choosing wallpaper for small spaces
If you own a small home and want to make your space appear larger than it is, choosing wallpaper can be an effective solution. In this section, we will discuss the key points for choosing for small spaces:
1- Using Light Colors
Wallpapers with light colors such as white, cream, or pastel tones can make a space appear larger and more open. These colors naturally reflect more light, making the room feel more spacious.
2- Simple and Minimalist Designs
In small spaces, it’s better to opt for simple and understated designs. Complex and busy patterns can make the space feel cramped and smaller. Choosing geometric or linear patterns can make your small space look sleek and modern.
3- Using Vertical Lines
If your walls are short, using wallpapers with vertical patterns can help make the walls appear taller. This design naturally guides the eye upward, giving the space a sense of height.
4- Combining with Mirrors and Lighting
Combining light-colored wallpapers with mirrors and proper lighting can make your small space look much larger and brighter. The use of mirrors helps light reflect more widely in the room, making the space feel bigger.
Safety tips when installing wallpaper
Although installing wallpaper seems like a simple task, it requires following safety precautions to prevent any damage or problems. Here are some tips to follow to ensure a safe and trouble-free installation process:
1- Using Safety Equipment
When working with a blade or scissors to cut wallpaper, make sure to wear safety gloves and protective goggles to prevent injury to your hands and eyes.
2- Proper Ventilation
When using glues, it is important to properly ventilate the area. Some adhesives and materials used during installation may release fumes that can be harmful to health.
3- Avoid Working in Humid Environments
If you are installing wallpaper in humid environments like bathrooms or kitchens, make sure to use moisture-resistant adhesives and keep the area dry to prevent mold or mildew growth.
4- Maintain Balance When Using a Ladder
If you are using a ladder, make sure it is placed securely on the surface, and be mindful of your balance to prevent falls.
Conclusion
Wallpaper installation is a quick, cost-effective, and efficient way to change the decor of your home. By making the right choice, preparing the walls properly, and using the right tools, you can easily complete this task and enjoy the results. Installing wallpaper allows you to transform your living space to match your personal style and create a fresh and inviting environment.
By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you will be able to install wallpaper professionally and enjoy its beauty for a long time. Regular maintenance and cleaning will also help preserve the beauty and durability of the wallpaper.
In this way, you can easily and affordably make significant changes to your home’s decor and create a new and attractive space.