My Experience With Wallpapering Textured Walls
Wallpapering textured walls can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and technique, it can be a rewarding DIY project. As a homeowner, I have had my fair share of struggles with wallpapering textured walls. However, after researching and practicing, I have found the best methods to achieve a flawless finish.
How To Wallpaper Textured Walls
Step-by-Step Guide
Before starting the project, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials, including wallpaper, wallpaper paste, a wallpaper brush, a smoothing tool, a sharp utility knife, and a ladder. Follow these steps:
- Clean the wall surface: Remove any dirt, debris, or loose paint from the wall surface to ensure the wallpaper adheres properly.
- Measure the wall: Measure the height and width of the wall to determine the amount of wallpaper needed. Add a few inches to each measurement to allow for trimming and matching the pattern.
- Cut the wallpaper: Cut the wallpaper into strips, making sure to match the pattern and allow for trimming. Apply paste to the back of each strip and fold in half, paste side to paste side.
- Hang the wallpaper: Starting from the top of the wall and working your way down, apply each strip of wallpaper, making sure to smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles along the way. Use the smoothing tool to ensure proper adhesion.
- Trim the edges: Use a sharp utility knife to trim any excess wallpaper from the edges and corners of the wall.
- Repeat: Continue hanging and trimming wallpaper strips until the entire wall is covered.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
Here are some tips and ideas to keep in mind when wallpapering textured walls:
- Choose the right wallpaper: Look for wallpaper that is specifically designed for textured walls to ensure proper adhesion.
- Prep the wall: Make sure the wall is clean, dry, and free of any loose paint or debris before applying wallpaper.
- Measure twice: Measure the wall twice before cutting any wallpaper to avoid mistakes.
- Start from the center: When hanging wallpaper, start from the center of the wall and work your way out to avoid uneven patterns or gaps.
- Overlap seams: Overlap the seams of each wallpaper strip to ensure a seamless finish.
- Smooth out bubbles: Use a smoothing tool to smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles in the wallpaper as you go.
- Trim carefully: Use a sharp utility knife to trim excess wallpaper from edges and corners, taking care not to damage the wall or the wallpaper.
- Let it dry: Allow the wallpaper to dry completely before moving furniture or decor back into the room.
- Experiment with patterns: Textured walls can add depth and interest to wallpaper patterns, so don’t be afraid to experiment with bold or intricate designs.
- Take your time: Wallpapering textured walls can be time-consuming, so don’t rush the process. Take your time and enjoy the end result.
Pros and Cons
Like any DIY project, wallpapering textured walls has its pros and cons:
Pros:
- Can add depth and interest to a room
- Can cover up imperfections in the wall
- Can be an affordable way to update a room
Cons:
- Can be time-consuming and labor-intensive
- May require more materials and tools than traditional wallpapering
- May not adhere properly to certain textures or surfaces
My Personal Review and Suggestion
After wallpapering my own textured walls, I can confidently say that with the right tools and techniques, it can be a rewarding and satisfying project. However, it is important to take your time and be patient throughout the process to ensure a flawless finish. My suggestion would be to practice on a small section of the wall before tackling the entire room, and to choose a wallpaper that is specifically designed for textured walls to ensure proper adhesion.
FAQs
Q: Can you wallpaper over textured walls?
A: Yes, you can wallpaper over textured walls, but it is important to choose a wallpaper that is specifically designed for textured walls to ensure proper adhesion.
Q: Do you need special tools to wallpaper textured walls?
A: While you may not need special tools, it is important to have a wallpaper brush, a smoothing tool, and a sharp utility knife to ensure a flawless finish.
Q: Can you remove wallpaper from textured walls?
A: Yes, you can remove wallpaper from textured walls, but it may be more difficult than removing wallpaper from smooth walls. It is important to follow proper removal techniques to avoid damaging the wall surface.