Wallpaper

Posted in: Wallpaper
How To Hang Wallpaper
By Martin Smith
Jul 21, 2008 - 3:42:31 PM

Question: I would like to know how to hang wallpaper in the right fashion. What are the essential points to be kept in mind and does one have to use particular device to set up wallpaper? I am sure that with this knowledge, I will save money and explore by secret flair. I assume that it will change the way my rooms look and make them dazzling.

Answer: In this feature, I will be able to provide a basic outlook of how wallpapers should be hung. It will be adequate to get you started. Still, I would suggest that you delve into extensive study as many books have been written on this matter. One may also look for videos and DVDs which explicates the wallpapering process in detail.

No doubt, wallpaper can completely alter a room. To generate a bright and flamboyant aura, one can go for wallpapers. A smother of paint or even multi-colored coats would not produce that dazzling effect.

The first step is to get everything together that you might need. As an amateur, collecting some basic ones like a tape measure, 4-foot level, 4-inch flexible putty knife, paint roller and roller pan, 2-inch paint brush, step ladder, snap-blade razor knife, smoothing brush and a large table or flat working surface would work for you. However, an expert might use a lot more.

Firstly, all the cracks in the walls have to be filled up and lump or bulges should be grated. If any of these are left, wallpaper clearly shows the flaws and blots when dried. Smother your walls with a special wallpaper primer which guarantees that the glue content would not infiltrate deeply. To add on, these primers give a lustrous gleam and make the paste stay as a liquid for sufficient time so that you can twist each wallpaper sheet at place.

The wallpaper has to be hanged at the right level else the entire configuration will be a waste. It will be in either a rising or a downward position. It is a good idea to first make an outline with a faded pencil about one-eighth inch away from the actual edge of the wallpaper keeping it away from the line. It is because if the wallpaper is placed exactly on the edge of the faded pencil line, it will be visible when the ridges of the wallpaper pull away.

The latest fashioned wallpapers come pre-pasted, already glued with fixative agents. A liquid activator is applied all over the back of the wallpaper with the help of a paint roller. As soon as it is applied, you should fold the paper back on itself not to expose the glue to air as humidity causes wallpapers to swell and get enlarged.

This is where the large worktable would come into picture. Spread out the wallpaper on the table and let it inflate. After the liquid activator is applied, let it relax and open out which would take around five minutes or so. If hanged directly on the wall, suds would be created on the wall. Certain non- woven wallpapers do not enlarge and can be functional as soon as the adhesive is applied.

How to place the wallpaper in the right manner on the wall? Even this is an art and needs a proper technique. Work on the edges first, sticking them at the precise places and let the rest of the paper sheet just placed along the wall. If you try to stick the entire wallpaper at one go, it will broaden the sheet. So, it is advisable not to get the entire sheet come in contact with the wall but only the edges.

Once firmly placed on the wall, take out the special smoothing brush to even out the sheet. Here, again start from the edges and gradually inwards not allowing any air bubbles in between. Use the snap-blade razor knife to spruce any glut of paper at the top, bottom and edges.
 
To tidy out those excessive sheets in an orderly way is not an easy task. In fact, it is considered the most demanding one as the wallpapers are generally soft and inflamed. A little carelessness would tear it as they are moist due to the liquid activator. Some of them have a lot of inbuilt defaults and needs quick action.
The long cuts at ceilings, baseboard and adjacent to windows and doors would need extra effort. The excess of the sheets should be pushed into the corners with the help of the putty knife. Once inserted, cut these by using the razor knife.

While working, be aware of the potential dangers as well especially when near to any electrical points. Even if accidentally the razor knife comes in contact with any electrical appliance, you will get a shock and chances of bruises and wounds cannot be ruled out.

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