Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a fantastic DIY solution for transforming your living space, but like any project, it can definitely present its fair share of challenges. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explore common issues that can arise during peel-and-stick wallpaper installation and share tips on how to avoid or overcome them.
1. Poor Wall Preparation
The Pitfall: Neglecting proper wall preparation can lead to adhesion issues, such as the wallpaper not sticking correctly, or it may even peel off over time.
Avoidance Strategy: Before applying peel-and-stick wallpaper, ensure your wall is clean, smooth, and dry. Remove any dirt, dust, or imperfections, and repair any holes or cracks. A smooth surface ensures proper adhesion.
2. Misalignment of Patterns
The Pitfall: Getting the patterns to match up perfectly can be challenging if you’re using patterned peel-and-stick wallpaper. Misaligned patterns can be visually distracting.
Avoidance Strategy: Measure and mark your wall and the wallpaper to ensure proper alignment. It’s helpful to use a level or a plumb line to create vertical guidelines for the wallpaper. Careful measuring and planning can help you achieve a seamless pattern match.
3. Air Bubbles and Wrinkles
The Pitfall: Air bubbles and wrinkles are common issues, especially if you’re new to installing peel-and-stick wallpaper. They can create an unattractive finish.
Avoidance Strategy: Start by peeling back a small section of the backing paper and applying it while smoothing it out. This prevents air from getting trapped. Use a smoothing tool or squeegee to work outward from the center, pushing air bubbles and wrinkles towards the edges.
4. Crooked Application
The Pitfall: Applying peel-and-stick wallpaper crookedly can lead to a visually unbalanced result.
Avoidance Strategy: Use a level or plumb line to apply your wallpaper straight. Starting from a reference line will help maintain a level application, even if your wall is slightly uneven.
5. Wallpaper Overlapping
The Pitfall: Overlapping the wallpaper seams can create visible lines and an uneven appearance.
Avoidance Strategy: Carefully align the edges of each wallpaper strip, ensuring they butt together without overlapping. You can then carefully trim the excess with a utility knife if there’s any slight overlap.
6. Adhesive Residue on the Wall
The Pitfall: Sometimes, the adhesive from the peel-and-stick wallpaper can leave a residue on the wall when you try to remove it.
Avoidance Strategy: To avoid this, ensure your wall is clean before application. If you encounter adhesive residue upon removal, a combination of water and mild dish soap can often help clean it off.
7. Corner and Edge Peeling
The Pitfall: Corners and edges are more prone to peeling, especially in high-traffic areas.
Avoidance Strategy: Apply extra adhesive or wallpaper glue to corners and edges for added durability. Additionally, consider using a clear, water-based sealer over the entire wallpaper for added protection and longevity.
8. Inadequate Cutting
The Pitfall: Poorly cut wallpaper can have uneven edges and an unprofessional look.
Avoidance Strategy: Use a straightedge or utility knife to make clean, precise cuts. Take your time, and measure accurately before cutting.
9. Rushing the Installation
The Pitfall: Rushing the installation process can lead to mistakes, such as misalignment, air bubbles, and wrinkles.
Avoidance Strategy: Take your time. Careful planning, preparation, and execution will lead to a more successful installation. Give yourself the time to work methodically and attentively.
10. Trustworthy Supplier
The Pitfall: There are a lot of wallpaper companies out there that don’t stand behind their product or use cheap thin material.
Avoidance Strategy: Look at reviews and for social proof. Also, check the company website for their return policy to make sure you are going to love the product. There are even companies like Love Vs. Design that offer no questions asked returns. So double check where you are buying from to be safe.
By being aware of these common pitfalls and following the suggested avoidance strategies, you can confidently navigate the world of peel-and-stick wallpaper installation. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with each project, you’ll become more adept at creating a beautiful and stylish finish.
Comments