Wallpapering can be a very daunting procedure, especially if you don’t have smooth wall that is ideal for it. Textured walls or even lightly grainy walls are the bane of many decorator and homeowner’s lives. Walls with texture makes wallpapering near impossible, because it just never turns out well like on flat walls - does it? You might have had a bad experience with rough walls, but does that mean that wallpapering is impossible if you have grainy walls or walls with light texture? Absolutely not.
If you have textured walls but want to put wallpaper on them, you’re not alone. It’s a dream of many people, and while it isn’t super uncomplicated, it can be done. If you want to find out a little more about applying wallpaper on rough walls, just keep reading. There are ways we recommend you to choose to wallpaper textured walls!
Can You Wallpaper on Textured Walls?
So, it is possible to wallpaper your textured surfaces or walls with light texture like orange peel. However, the procedure to apply peel and stick wallpaper on your textured walls isn’t the easiest. If you don’t take your time with the procedure and do it right, you’ll just end up with a messy walls. If you want your end result to be a great-looking, check out the steps below.
Not all textures are created equal when it comes to applying wallpaper. Generally, smoother textures are more suitable for wallpaper textured walls. Heavy textured wall such as popcorn texture or rough stucco wall texture may require more extensive smoothing, like a skim coat, before applying wallpaper. For best results, ensure your wall is adequately prepared to avoid bubbles and ensure the wallpaper sticks properly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Wallpapering Textured Walls
Transforming a room with wallpaper can bring vibrant color and life, but when it comes to wallpapering textured walls, the process differs significantly from working with smooth walls. The key to success lies in properly preparing the surface, choosing the right type of wallpaper, and applying it with care. This section answers the question of how best to stick and peel wallpaper on textured finish, providing detailed recommendations to make the task easier. From selecting suitable wallpaper to ensuring a seamless application, we've gathered tips to apply to make sure your home makeover takes shape in the best way possible.
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Assess the Wall Texture: Begin by examining the way of your wall's texture. Determine if it is too rough for wallpapering rough walls by running your hand over it. If it's overly bumpy or sharp, consider smoothing it down with an orbital sander to create a more even feel.
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Preparing the Wall: Clean the textured walls with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. For heavily textured walls, a thin layer of joint compound may be necessary to create walls. Optionally, apply liner paper specifically designed for textured walls to achieve a smooth walls color finish. Let it dry completely.
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Measure and Cut the Wallpaper: Before you apply wallpaper, measure the height and width of your walls to calculate the amount of wallpaper needed. Cut strips of wallpaper that are a few inches longer than the wall height, allowing for adjustments, using a craft knife for precision.
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Apply Adhesive: Use a high-quality, heavy-duty adhesive specifically designed for wallpaper to textured walls. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and applying the adhesive either to the wall or the back of the wallpaper.
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Hang the Wallpaper: Align the first strip of wallpaper at the top of the wall, ensuring it's straight. Gently press it, smoothing out bubbles and wrinkles with a wallpaper smoothing tool.
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Trim Excess: Carefully trim any excess wallpaper at the top and bottom using a sharp craft knife. Ensure the edges are clean and aligned with the wall boundaries.
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Repeat and Final Check: Repeat the procedure with each strip, ensuring each section, patterns or straight edges align. Once the wallpaper is fully applied over the textured walls, inspect the seams and edges for a seamless finish.
By following these tips and recommendations, you can successfully install wallpaper material on textured walls, transforming your space with a beautiful new look your way.
Best Types of Wallpaper for Textured Walls
1. Vinyl Wallpaper
Vinyl wallpaper is an excellent way for textured walls because of its durability and flexibility. It can easily cover blemishes and irregularities on textured wall while being resistant to moisture and damage, making it perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. It is specifically designed to work well on grainy surfaces and can give the appearance of smooth finish walls with its material.
2. Fabric-Backed Wallpaper
Choose the application of fabric-backed wallpaper type for textured walls as it is thick and strong, providing a seamless and smooth appearance. It also has a fabric layer that adds to its durability and makes it easier to peel-off and reposition without tearing. When applied to completely dry walls, it adheres well and adjusts to the surface.
3. Heavyweight Paper Wallpaper
The application of heavyweight paper wallpaper is another good option for textured walls due to its thickness and weight, which helps to mask uneven wall surface. It is less likely to tear during installation and can hide imperfections effectively. Use a putty knife to smooth the wallpaper over joint compound areas for a flawless finish that takes your breath away.
4. Grasscloth Wallpaper
Install grasscloth wallpaper for a unique, natural aesthetic that can complement textured walls beautifully. Although it doesn’t cover imperfections as effectively as heavier wallpapers, its grainy finish can blend well with existing textures for a cohesive look. Its natural fibers work well on rough surfaces that have been sanded smooth.
5. 3D or Textured Wallpaper
3D or textured wallpaper is designed to be installed on uneven walls, and its three-dimensional patterns are great at disguising textured wall. It adds depth and style to any room, complementing the natural character of the walls while enhancing the overall visual interest. Unlike regular wallpaper, it is specifically designed to enhance textured walls.
Wallpaper on Textured Walls - The Rules You Should Follow
There are some important rules to keep in mind when it comes to wallpapering textured walls. We will take a look at both of them below so that you know where to start on your wallpaper application journey.
Don’t use peel and stick wallpaper
The first thing you need to know about wallpapering textured walls is that you should avoid the use of peel and stick wallpaper designs. This kind of wallpaper makes it super easy for the texture to be seen through the stick paper. Not only that, but the adhesive also usually has problems sticking because of it. What does this result in? The peel and stick wallpaper peeling off and ending up on the floor. That means that all your hard work of application would be wasted, and nobody wants to waste their time with that.
Buy Wallpaper With a Woven Poly-Cotton Osnaburg Backing
The best type of wallpaper you could use is a wallpaper that has a woven poly-cotton osnaburg backing. If you didn’t know, this type of wallpaper has a grid-textured backing, which results in the paste being held better. Smooth backed wallpapers are notorious for peeling and slipping off, which is why this type of wallpaper is so amazing for textured walls like orange peel. However, with that being said, this doesn’t work for all textured walls. In fact, this type of backing will only get the job done with mildly textured walls. If your textured walls are very noticeable, you shouldn’t try this option. Instead, you should aim to even out it before trying to apply wallpaper, so you don't have to remove the wallpapered piece of wallpaper.
How You Can Help Smooth Your Walls Out
Below are two methods you can use to help make your textured walls into almost perfect. Both of these work well to make rough into smooth areas, but can take some time. Of course, there are other methods you may want to try for this kind of walls, but these are good starting points. It’s important to note that not all textured walls are that way on purpose. Walls also may have become grainy over time or accidentally. In some cases, you may need to sandpaper it to get it even and ready for wallpaper. This, however, is something that you will have to judge for yourself based on why it is bumpy.
Final Thoughts
While it is entirely possible to wallpaper a textured surface with thicker wallpaper, it might not always be in your best interest. Instead of jumping in the deep end and crying about your wallpaper being in a heap the next day, take your time and do it right. If your walls have lots of grain for your wallpaper to handle it, take the extra step and smooth the texture out.
Both methods mentioned in this article result in great looking, smooth walls that are to apply wallpaper. As long as you get your base right, the finished result will be beautiful, and a whole lot easier to put on. Good luck!
FAQs
How to clean textured walls before applying wallpaper?
To ensure wallpaper sticks well to walls, it must be smooth. Sanding can create the ideal area by removing imperfections, allowing the wallpaper to adhere properly. If needed, peel away old layers before starting the sanding process.
Can I use regular wallpaper on a textured wall?
The short answer is yes, to create a high-quality finish in your space, consider using technique designed to minimize bubbles of your textured walls. Sand them smooth before applying the final layer to ensure the material sticks well. These tips will help you achieve results that transforms your room, even bathroom, without any peeling.
How do I apply wallpaper to a textured surface with a lot of imperfections?
To ensure success when installing material on walls, careful preparation is essential. Quality techniques, like choosing the right color, applying tricks for a smooth surface, and using tips to prevent bubbles, can make a beautiful finish. Remember, proper preparation and the right choice of techniques are key to having the sand and stick elements peel-free.
Can you wallpaper over a cracked wall and small holes?
To effectively apply wallpaper to textured walls, first sand the wall to achieve a more even surface, ensuring the wallpaper sticks properly. Here are some tips: peel back the wallpaper carefully and install it with precision for the best results on your walls.
How long does it take to wallpaper a textured wall?
When preparing to install new materials, choosing the right color and quality is essential for success. Helpful tips include focusing on clean and beautiful sections, as this can greatly impact the overall result. A successful installation is made easy by selecting high-quality materials and having a clear idea of the desired outcome.
Can you remove wallpaper from a textured wall?
Yes, you can remove wallpaper from a textured wall, but it's essential to address any issues carefully. Choose the right method for your wall type and work through each section methodically to ensure a smooth process and a successful outcome.
