Tom's Question and Answer room

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

All answers are the opinion of The Wallpaper Store and are usually not the only answer or way to solve the problem. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask us anything.


Table of Contents

  1. Why do seams show more on some papers?
  2. Can I hang striped paper on imperfect walls?
  3. Should I use another adhesive on prepasted papers?
  4. How can I save paper on a large repeat match?
  5. How should I prepare my room before hanging the wallpaper?
  6. How do I know if a paper is quality paper?
  7. What is Fabric Backed Vinyl?
  8. How do I determine how many rolls of wallpaper I will need?

Why do seams show more on some papers?

Seams show more on white or light background papers. They also show more on a glossy paper referred to as the Wet Look. Make sure your seams are tight but not overlapped. Roll with a seam roller on most paper and wash paper and seam with water. Always read the manufacturer instructions before hanging.

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Can I hang striped paper on imperfect walls?

Most homes do not have perfectly straight walls. Make sure your first piece of paper is straight using a level or plumb line. Continue hanging to the end of the wall. Start the next wall with a level or plumb line again. Continue keeping your paper level. Corners will absorb the imperfections. You should hang all your papers, strips, floral, etc.. the same way.
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Should I use another adhesive on prepasted papers?

My opinion is that it is not necessary, however, I always use an activator to insure uniformity.

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How can I save paper on a large repeat match?

Most matches are calculated so you don't lose the entire length of the match. Try using two rolls at a time and switch rolls with each sheet.
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How should I prepare my room before hanging the wallpaper?

If you are going to paint the ceiling and trim, paint first. Always size your walls with a good sizing; ask your dealer for a sizing recommendation.

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How do I know if a paper is quality paper?

Ask a dealer who has a good reputation or one you personally trust. A good paper does not always mean expensive paper. You should buy a paper that is worth the money you are spending. An inexpensive paper may be a nuisance to hang, whereas an expensive paper may require professional expertise. A wallpaper hanger would usually know quality for the dollar.

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What is Fabric Backed Vinyl?

Vinyls come in different backings. The most common today is Paper Backed Vinyls. The Fabric Back Vinyl is normally heavier and much easier to strip. I haven't hung any that were prepasted and I don't know if they are yet!

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How do I determine how many rolls of wallpaper I will need?

Simple! Just follow our easy to use chart which will give you an estimate based on the size of your room!

The first column represents the size of the room. The next three columns represent the height of your walls, and how many rolls of paper you will need for your room with each size, and the final represents how many rolls you would need to wallpaper a ceiling. All paper is sold in double rolls.

Room Size 8 Ft. 9 Ft. 10 Ft. Ceiling
8x10 10 12 12 4
10x10 12 12 14 4
10x12 12 14 16 6
10x14 14 14 16 6
12x12 14 14 16 6
12x14 14 16 18 6
12x16 16 18 20 8
12x18 16 18 20 8
12x20 18 20 22 10
14x14 16 18 20 8
14x16 16 18 20 8
14x18 18 20 22 10
14x20 18 20 24 10
14x22 20 22 24 12
16x16 18 20 22 10
16x18 18 20 24 10
16x20 20 22 24 12
16x22 20 24 26 14
16x24 22 24 28 14
18x18 20 22 24 12
18x20 20 24 26 14
18x22 22 24 28 14
18x24 22 26 28 16

Deduct one single roll for two windows or each door opening.

 


The best tip I can give you is always read the instructions that are included with the wallpaper! Enjoy your wallpaper hanging, it can be a fun and rewarding experience!!!

Copyright © [Kevin Ledig and T&B Decorators]. All rights reserved.
Revised: December 3, 1998.