Top 5 Wallpaper Mistakes to Avoid At All Costs

We know what you are thinking: wallpaper? In 2021?

Yes, we know it sounds totally bizarre but wallpaper is making a comeback and luckily for many of us, it has evolved past the horrid yellow and brown flowers that used to be printed on it (sorry parents/grandparents).

Modern wallpaper designs offer something for everyone; whether you want to go bolder and braver or whether you want something more neutral. It is easy to apply and it is perfect if you want something you can change now and again. 

There are, however, a few things that have to be avoided at all costs:

Mistake #1 - Not lining the walls

Many DIY-decorators have made the mistake of not lining the walls before applying the wallpaper.

It is always a good idea to use lining paper, no matter what the colour of your walls is.

It helps to cover up the colour of the wall and it also helps the wallpaper to stick securely to the wall. When you decide to take it down, it makes the process easier and it prevents the paint from peeling off the wall. 

Mistake #2 - Forgetting to measure the walls

Some homeowners get overexcited when they buy wallpaper and they completely forget to measure the walls.

You might just come home and realize that you didn't buy enough wallpaper!

However, there is an easy way for homeowners to calculate how much wallpaper they need: you simply measure the width and the length of each wall you want to cover. You then multiply the combined width and length of the walls. This will give you the total square meters of wall space that you need to cover with wallpaper.

If you are unsure, rather buy too much than too little. You never know if you will find that exact design when you go back!

Mistake #3 - Putting wallpaper on the toilet

Say what?! This might seem like the obvious but evidence on social media told us otherwise.

Putting it plainly, it is a horrible idea to put wallpaper on the toilet element itself.

First of all, it is not visually appealing. Secondly, it is a hygienic disaster. It often leads to a build-up of grime and other bacteria at the back of the toilet.

Even if you buy modern wallpaper that is easy to clean, you can expect mould and peeling to start after about a month. 

Mistake #4 - Using paintable wallpaper

Paintable wallpaper might seem like a good idea. After all, you can paint it in whichever way you want to and create your custom design.

However, installing paintable wallpaper is not as amazing as it sounds. It is often used by homeowners to cover up cracks or holes in the walls. It covers the imperfections immediately and it saves time on repairing the walls.

Let's put it this way: it is not meant for decoration. You simply cover up the hole or crack and paint over it. There is no sanding or priming involved.

When using paintable wallpaper for repairs, use waterborne paint to give it a lacquered look. 

Mistake #5 - Not considering the placement

If you find a wallpaper quote or wallpaper with a picture on it, be mindful of the placement of the wallpaper.

It often happens that homeowners place the wallpaper around a light switch or another permanent fixture only to find that the wording of the quote has changed or the picture has been fragmented.

Ever thought of that?

If you opt for this type of wallpaper, it is better to have it installed by professionals rather than doing it yourself (or at least, someone who's more glued up on it than you). They will map out the correct placement so that the image or the quote stays intact.