How to Buy the Best Wallpaper for Your Home

Your Guide to buying the best Wallpaper

Overview

Wallpaper is an easy, simple way to give any room in your home a quick and stylish update. Whether you’re looking for a subtle, classic design or a bold splash of color and pattern, there’s wallpaper to fit any taste. This buying guide is designed to help you find the perfect wallpaper solution for your home, ensuring you end up with the best product for your needs. We’ll go over everything from the different types of wallpaper to the tools you’ll need for installation, and more. So let’s get started!

Key features

  1. Type of Wallpaper: Consider the various types of wallpaper available, such as traditional, vinyl-coated, fabric-backed vinyl, grass cloth, and hand-screened. Each type has its own unique characteristics and design options.
  2. Color: Pay close attention to the color of the wallpaper you are considering. Many papers have multiple color options, so make sure you select the one that best suits your design goals.
  3. Pattern: Depending on the type of wallpaper you choose, you may have a wide variety of pattern options available. Consider a pattern that will best match your decorating theme.
  4. Durability: Make sure to evaluate the durability of the wallpaper you are considering. Vinyl-coated wallpaper is more durable than traditional paper, while grass cloth and hand-screened wallpaper can be less so.
  5. Installation: Consider the installation requirements of the wallpaper you are interested in. Many types of wallpaper require professional installation, while others are designed for easy DIY installation.
  6. Price: Lastly, make sure to evaluate the price of the wallpaper you are considering. Prices can vary widely depending on the type, pattern, and manufacturer.

See the most popular Wallpaper on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Wide selection of designs: Wallpaper comes in a wide variety of designs, colors and textures, giving you plenty of options to choose from to find the perfect look for your space.
  • Durable: Wallpaper is usually more durable than paint, meaning it will last longer and not require frequent replacement.
  • Transformation: Wallpaper can greatly transform a room, adding depth and warmth to the home.
  • Easy installation: Wallpaper is relatively easy to install and can be done with minimal effort.
  • Cost-effective: Wallpaper is an inexpensive option when compared to other wall treatments, such as tile or stone.
  • Fire retardant: Many types of wallpaper are fire retardant, adding an extra level of safety to your home.

Cons

  • Cost - Wallpaper can be quite expensive. It is important to consider the cost of the wallpaper, the cost of wallpapering supplies, and the cost of installation when budgeting for wallpapering.
  • Damage - Wallpaper can easily be damaged due to wear and tear, and it can be difficult to repair. It is important to consider the amount of wear and tear that the wallpaper may receive in its lifetime.
  • Difficulty of Removal - Wallpaper can be very difficult to remove, especially if it has been on the walls for a long period of time. It is important to consider how difficult it would be to remove the wallpaper if it is ever needed.
  • Maintenance - Wallpaper can require a significant amount of maintenance such as occasional cleaning and repairs. It is important to consider the amount of maintenance that is required to keep the wallpaper looking its best.

Best alternatives

  1. Tile - Ceramic or stone tiles can be used to create a unique look on walls.
  2. Paint - Available in a wide range of colors, paint is a great way to make a statement in any room.
  3. Wood Paneling - Wood paneling can be used to create a rustic look for a room.
  4. Vinyl - Vinyl wall coverings come in a variety of styles and colors and can be installed fairly easily.
  5. Fabric - Fabrics can be used to add texture and color to walls.
  6. Mural - Murals can be painted directly onto walls or can be purchased as wallpaper.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

Common questions

  1. What is the difference between pre-pasted and non-pasted wallpaper?
    Pre-pasted wallpaper is wallpaper that has adhesive already applied to the back of the wallpaper. Non-pasted wallpaper requires the user to apply a wallpaper adhesive or paste to the back of the wallpaper.
  2. What type of surface is best for wallpaper?
    Wallpaper should be applied to a clean, dry, and smooth surface. It should not be applied to surfaces that are stained, cracked, chipped, or peeling.
  3. Are there different types of wallpaper?
    Yes, there are a variety of different types of wallpaper. These include vinyl, paper, fabric, grasscloth, foil, and non-woven wallpapers.
  4. What is the best way to measure for wallpaper?
    Measure the height and width of each wall you plan to wallpaper. Add an additional 6 to 12 inches to each measurement for trimming and repeat patterns.
  5. How do I calculate the amount of wallpaper I will need?
    The amount of wallpaper you need is based on the total square footage of the walls. To calculate the total square footage, multiply the width and height of each wall and add the totals together.
  6. How do I prepare the walls for wallpaper?
    Walls should be clean, dry, and free of dirt and dust. If necessary, fill any holes or cracks and sand smooth. It is also important to prime the walls before applying the wallpaper.
  7. How do I hang wallpaper?
    The exact procedure for hanging wallpaper varies depending on the type of wallpaper you are using. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.
  8. How long does it take to hang wallpaper?
    The amount of time it takes to hang wallpaper depends on the size of the room and the complexity of the wallpaper pattern. Generally, it takes between 1 and 4 days to wallpaper a room.
  9. What tools do

Trivia

According to research published in 2012, wallpaper can actually help improve your mood. The study found that people who used wallpaper in their homes had a higher satisfaction rate than those who used plain paint. In addition, the study found that the more interesting and colorful the wallpaper, the more satisfied the people were. This could explain why wallpaper continues to remain popular in many homes around the world. Source: The Independent

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.