What is Wallpaper?
Wallpaper is a material used to cover and decorate the interior walls of homes, offices, cafes, government buildings, museums, post offices, and other buildings. It is usually sold in rolls and is applied onto a wall using wallpaper paste. Wallpapers can come plain as “lining paper” (so that it can be painted or used to help cover uneven surfaces and minor wall defects thus giving a better surface), textured (such as Anaglypta), with a regular repeating pattern design, or, much less commonly today, with a single non-repeating large design carried over a set of sheets. The smallest rectangle that can be tiled to form the whole pattern is known as the pattern repeat.
Types of Wallpaper
Wallpaper can be divided into three main types: paper-backed, fabric-backed, and solid sheet, which are further divided into vinyl, foil, and solid sheet types. Each type has different characteristics that can affect the look, feel, and installation of the wallpaper. Paper-backed is the most common type and is made with a paper backing on both sides of the wallpaper. It is usually pre-pasted and is easy to install and remove. Fabric-backed wallpaper is made of fabric with a paper backing. It is more durable and easier to clean than paper-backed wallpaper, but it is also more expensive and difficult to install. Solid sheet wallpaper is made from a single sheet of vinyl, foil, or solid sheet material. It is usually pre-pasted and is easy to install and remove.
Preparing the Wall
Before applying wallpaper, it is important to prepare the wall for the wallpaper. This includes cleaning the wall and repairing any imperfections. To clean the wall, use a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. If there are any holes or cracks, use spackling paste to fill them in. Make sure to let the paste dry completely before applying the wallpaper. Also, make sure the wall is completely dry before applying the wallpaper.
Measuring and Cutting the Wallpaper
Once the wall is prepared, the next step is to measure and cut the wallpaper. Start by measuring the length of the wall and then measure and mark the height of the wallpaper on the wall. Use a ruler and a pencil to draw a straight line at the mark. Cut the wallpaper along the line, making sure to leave enough extra paper to overlap the edges. It is also important to measure and mark each corner of the wall and then cut the wallpaper at an angle so that the wallpaper will fit correctly.
Applying the Wallpaper
The next step is to apply the wallpaper. Start by spreading wallpaper paste on the back of the wallpaper. Make sure the paste is spread evenly and doesn’t pool in any one spot. Place the wallpaper on the wall and press it into place. Use a wallpaper brush to smooth out any air bubbles. Once the wallpaper is applied, use a damp cloth to clean up any excess paste.
Hanging the Wallpaper
The last step is to hang the wallpaper. Start by measuring and cutting the first strip of wallpaper. Use a plumb line to ensure the wallpaper is hung straight. Hang the first strip and then overlap the second strip by about one inch. Make sure the pattern matches up at the seams. Continue to hang the wallpaper until the entire wall is covered.
Finishing Touches
Once the wallpaper is hung, it is important to add the finishing touches. Use a wallpaper brush to press the seams firmly in place. Then, use a damp cloth to remove any excess paste that may have been left behind. For a professional finish, use a wallpaper cutter to trim the edges of the wallpaper. Finally, use a roller to press the wallpaper firmly into place.
Conclusion
Wallpaper can be a great way to add a unique and stylish touch to any room. By following the steps outlined above, wallpaper can be applied to one rectangular wall with ease. Before beginning, make sure to measure the wall and prepare it for the wallpaper. Once the wallpaper is applied, use a damp cloth to clean up any excess paste and then use a wallpaper brush to press the seams firmly in place. For a professional finish, use a wallpaper cutter to trim the edges of the wallpaper and then use a roller to press the wallpaper firmly into place.
