How to prepare a wall for wallpapering?
Preparing a wall properly before wallpapering is essential to achieve a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing result. Here are some general steps you can follow:
- Cleaning:
- Start by cleaning the wall to remove dust, dirt and grease. You can use a mild solution of water and detergent.
- Make sure the wall is completely dry before proceeding.
- Repair of cracks and holes:
- Fill any cracks or holes in the wall with wall putty. Smooth the putty with a putty knife and make sure it is dry before continuing.
- If there are larger imperfections, you may need to sand the wall to obtain a smooth surface.
- Sanding:
- Sand the wall to smooth out any irregularities and provide a tacky surface for the wallpaper.
- Use medium grit sandpaper to remove imperfections and fine grit sandpaper to smooth the surface.
- Primer:
- Apply a primer coat (primer) on the wall. This helps the wallpaper adhere better and provides a smooth surface.
- Make sure you use a primer suitable for the walls and that it is dry before continuing.
- Measuring and cutting:
- Measure the height of the wall and cut the strips of wallpaper according to those measurements, leaving an excess for adjustments.
- It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the proper handling and cutting of the wallpaper.
- Wallpapered:
- Apply the adhesive paste according to the manufacturer's instructions on the back of the wallpaper.
- Place the wallpaper strips on the wall, aligning them correctly and smoothing out the air bubbles with a brush or sponge.
- Cutting and adjustments:
- Use a sharp blade to cut off excess paper at the edges and corners.
- Make sure the joints are well aligned and there are no overlaps.
- Drying and touch-ups:
- Let the wallpaper dry completely before making any touch-ups or additional adjustments.
- If necessary, apply more adhesive paste or make adjustments to the edges for a clean finish.
By following these steps, you will be able to properly prepare the wall for wallpapering and achieve a satisfactory final result. Always remember to follow the specific recommendations of the manufacturer of the wallpaper and the products you are using.
