FAQ
Questions, Answered.
Straight answers about traditional wallpaper, prep, ordering, and what to expect.
The Big Question
Traditional Wallpaper vs. Peel-and-Stick
Why is traditional wallpaper recommended over peel-and-stick?
Traditional wallpaper is often favored by design professionals and homeowners seeking a permanent, high-quality finish. While peel-and-stick options are popular for temporary DIY projects, traditional pasted wallpaper offers several distinct advantages in terms of durability, aesthetics, and long-term value:
- Superior durability and longevity. Traditional wallpaper is designed to stay on the wall for decades. Applied with specialized adhesives, it is much less likely to peel at the corners or shrink over time due to temperature fluctuations. Peel-and-stick products often use a pressure-sensitive adhesive that can lose its grip, especially in environments with high humidity or changing seasons.
- Professional aesthetic and finish. Traditional papers often have a heavier weight and a more refined texture. They are available in a wider variety of high-end finishes — such as grasscloth, flocked velvet, and deep-embossed textures — that are difficult to replicate with the thin vinyl typically used for self-adhesive products. Traditional paper also often features a matte finish that minimizes glare and provides a more sophisticated, “painted-on” look.
- Ability to correct wall imperfections. Thicker and more substantial, traditional wallpaper does a much better job of hiding minor lumps, cracks, or textures on the drywall. The wet adhesive helps to “float” the paper over the surface, creating a smoother final appearance. Thin peel-and-stick vinyl tends to conform to the wall, highlighting every bump or imperfection beneath it.
- Seamless installation. One of the biggest advantages of traditional wallpaper is the “slip” provided by wet paste, allowing the paper to slide into perfect position so patterns match exactly at the seams. With peel-and-stick, the instant adhesive makes adjustment difficult, often leading to stretched material or misaligned patterns.
- Breathability. Many traditional wallpapers (particularly non-woven varieties) are breathable, allowing moisture to escape from walls to prevent mold and mildew growth. Many self-adhesive options are solid vinyl, which acts as a vapor barrier and can trap moisture.
- Value for investment. While upfront material and installation costs may be higher, the cost-per-year is much lower. Because it does not require frequent replacement or repair, traditional wallpaper is a permanent architectural feature that adds lasting value, whereas temporary wallpaper is a quick fix that will eventually need to be replaced.
Before the First Strip
Wall Prep & Job Site Readiness
Do I need to prep or smooth my walls before you arrive?
No extra prep is needed on your end. A proper installation depends heavily on surface condition, so surface evaluation and preparation are built into every project. Smooth, clean, and properly primed walls ensure the best adhesion and make future removal much easier. If patching, sanding, or specialty wallcovering primer is required, it will be handled as part of job setup.
Can wallpaper be installed over textured walls or existing paper?
Existing wallpaper should always be removed, and heavy wall texture must be skim-coated smooth and properly primed prior to papering. Installing new paper over existing layers or rough texture leads to visible seams, telegraphing bumps, and premature peeling.
Getting It Right
Material & Ordering Guidance
How do I know how much wallpaper to order?
Wallcoverings are sold in single rolls, double rolls, or continuous bolts, and pattern repeat lengths significantly affect total coverage. It is best to get a professional estimate before placing your order. Send over the room dimensions along with the wallpaper pattern details (width and pattern repeat), and you’ll receive an accurate roll count to avoid over-purchasing or running short.
Should I order extra rolls just in case?
Yes, ordering 10–15% extra is highly recommended. This accounts for pattern matching, trimming waste, and potential dye-lot mismatches. Having an extra unopened roll or reserve material from the same printing run ensures you have matching paper for future repairs if needed.
What to Expect
Pricing & Estimating
How are installation costs calculated?
Estimates are calculated based on square footage, wall height, layout complexity (such as stairwells, intricate trim work, or obstruction-heavy rooms), wall prep requirements, and the specific material being installed. Specialty papers — like grasscloth, untrimmed hand-prints, foil, or large murals — require specialized handling and precise techniques.
Do you offer on-site or virtual estimates?
Both options are available. For most standard rooms, clear photos of the space along with wall dimensions and the wallpaper specification sheet are all that’s needed to provide an initial estimate. For complex custom spaces or historic properties, an on-site consultation can be scheduled.
Living With It
Timeline, Removal & Care
How long does wallpaper installation take?
Most standard accent walls or single rooms can be completed in a single day. However, total timeline depends on wall preparation needs, drying times, room complexity, and the material type. During the initial estimate, you’ll receive a clear timeframe for your specific project so you can plan accordingly.
Is wallpaper removable, or will it damage my drywall down the road?
Modern traditional wallpaper is designed to be cleanly removable, provided the walls were properly primed before installation. Specialized wallcovering primers create a protective barrier over the drywall. When you are ready for a change years down the road, the paper can be removed using standard stripping methods without gouging or ruining the sheetrock beneath.
How do I care for and clean my new wallpaper?
Care depends on the specific material:
- Standard non-woven and vinyl papers: can be gently wiped clean with a damp, soft cloth.
- Natural materials (grasscloth, silk, hand-painted papers): should only be vacuumed gently with a soft brush attachment and kept away from direct water contact.
Care instructions specific to your exact paper will be provided upon completion.
Have a question about a specific paper or project?
Call (402) 599-9658 or send over the details.
Let’s Get Started