Avoid Common Wallpaper Mistakes: Insights from Wallpaper Dealers in India
When it comes to transforming your home, wallpaper is an excellent way to bring style, color, and personality into a room. However, achieving a professional-looking finish can be tricky if you’re not aware of common mistakes that can make the difference between a flawless design and a costly re-do. Whether you’re planning to buy wallpaper for walls online or visit a wallpaper dealer in India, knowing the dos and don’ts of wallpaper installation is crucial for getting the results you want.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the most common wallpaper mistakes and offer expert tips to help you avoid them. With guidance from a leading wallpaper manufacturer in India and top designers, you can learn how to avoid these pitfalls and achieve a polished look, every time.
1. Choosing the Wrong Wallpaper for Your Space
One of the first mistakes people make is selecting the wrong wallpaper for the room they intend to decorate. Whether you’re buying wallpaper for walls online or from a local wallpaper dealer in India, it’s important to keep in mind the size of the room, the furniture, and the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for.
Tip:
- For small rooms, opt for lighter colors and smaller patterns to make the space feel more expansive.
- In larger rooms, you can get away with bold colors and large-scale patterns, which will add character and balance to the space.
- If you’re unsure, consult with a designer wallpaper expert who can recommend options that suit your space.
2. Incorrect Wallpaper Measurement
A critical mistake when buying wallpaper for walls online or from a wallpaper dealer in India is miscalculating the amount of wallpaper you need. Not having enough wallpaper to complete the project can lead to frustrating delays, while buying too much can lead to unnecessary expense.
Tip:
- Measure your walls accurately, including the height and width of each wall, and add a little extra to account for pattern matching and mistakes.
- Many wallpaper manufacturers in India offer online calculators that can help estimate the amount of wallpaper you need based on your room size.
- If in doubt, ask your wallpaper dealer in India for guidance on how much wallpaper is required for your project.
3. Poor Surface Preparation
Wallpaper installation requires smooth, clean, and dry surfaces. If the walls are not prepped properly, you might end up with bubbles, wrinkles, or peeling wallpaper, which is not only unsightly but can be a hassle to repair.
Tip:
- Clean the walls to remove any dust, grease, or other debris. If the surface is textured, you may want to sand it down to create a smooth base.
- Repair any holes or cracks with filler before wallpapering.
- Ensure the wall is dry and free from moisture as this can affect the adhesion of the wallpaper.
4. Neglecting to Match Patterns
When working with patterned wallpaper, mismatched seams can be one of the most noticeable mistakes. It can ruin the flow of the design and make the space look unprofessional.
Tip:
- Always pay attention to the repeat of the pattern when cutting the wallpaper. Match the seams carefully so that the pattern flows seamlessly across your walls.
- Take your time when applying the wallpaper, especially when dealing with intricate designs.
- Many designer wallpaper collections offer patterns that are easy to match, so it’s worth investing in high-quality wallpaper from a trusted wallpaper manufacturer in India.
5. Not Using the Right Adhesive
Another common mistake is using the wrong adhesive for the type of wallpaper you’re working with. Different wallpapers, like vinyl or non-woven, require specific adhesives to ensure they stay in place for years.
Tip:
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions on the wallpaper for the recommended type of adhesive.
- For wallpaper installation in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms, use a strong adhesive that is resistant to humidity.
6. Overlapping Edges or Seams
Improperly installed seams and edges can make your wallpaper look unprofessional. Overlapping edges can create visible lines, while uneven seams can cause the wallpaper to peel off over time.
Tip:
- Use a wallpaper seam roller to press the seams together securely.
- Trim the edges of the wallpaper carefully to ensure they are even and aligned.
- When working with patterned wallpaper, use a plumb line to ensure that the wallpaper is hung straight from the start.
7. Rushing the Installation Process
Wallpaper installation requires patience and precision. Rushing through the process can lead to uneven seams, wrinkles, and errors in the pattern match.
Tip:
- Take your time with each section, and don’t rush the process.
- Work on small sections at a time, and always double-check your work before moving to the next piece.
- If you’re new to wallpapering, it’s a good idea to practice on a smaller section of the wall to get a feel for the process.
8. Not Accounting for Future Removal
If you’re planning to change your wallpaper down the road, you’ll want to ensure it’s easy to remove without damaging the wall underneath. Some wallpapers, especially those that are not properly installed or glued, can be a nightmare to remove later.
Tip:
- Use removable or peel-and-stick wallpapers if you anticipate re-decorating the space frequently.
- If you’re using traditional wallpaper, opt for an adhesive that’s easy to remove when the time comes.
- Always test a small section before applying the full wall of wallpaper to ensure that it’s easy to remove when needed.
9. Ignoring Lighting and Ventilation
Lighting and air quality in the room can impact the overall look and longevity of the wallpaper. If your room is exposed to direct sunlight for long periods, it may cause the wallpaper to fade over time.
Tip:
- Consider the light source in the room when choosing wallpaper colors and patterns. Dark colors can make a room feel smaller, while lighter hues reflect more light and can open up space.
- If your room gets a lot of sunlight, you may want to opt for UV-resistant wallpaper that won’t fade.
- Ensure proper ventilation, especially in rooms like kitchens and bathrooms, where humidity can impact the wallpaper’s longevity.
10. Not Seeking Professional Help When Needed
Finally, one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is trying to tackle wallpaper installation without sufficient experience. While wallpapering may seem simple, there’s a lot of room for error, and getting it wrong can lead to wasted time and money.
Tip:
- If you’re unsure about your ability to wallpaper a room, consider hiring a professional installer. A skilled wallpaper installer can help ensure that the job is done correctly, and will give your space that polished, high-end look you desire.
- You can also seek advice from a wallpaper dealer in India to guide you through the process or recommend a reliable installer.
11. Forgetting to Consider Room Usage
When selecting wallpaper, it’s crucial to consider the room’s purpose and the amount of traffic it experiences. A common mistake is using delicate or high-maintenance wallpaper in areas where durability is key, like hallways or children’s rooms.
Tip:
- For high-traffic areas, choose durable, washable wallpapers made from vinyl or non-woven materials. These wallpapers are more resistant to wear and tear and are easier to clean.
- In children’s rooms, select wallpapers with non-toxic, hypoallergenic materials that are safe for young ones.
- For more serene, less-used spaces like bedrooms or home offices, you can opt for delicate textures and patterns, as they won’t face as much wear.
12. Ignoring Environmental Conditions
The environment plays a huge role in the success of your wallpaper project. Wallpaper can react to extreme temperatures and humidity, which could cause it to peel, bubble, or fade over time.
Tip:
- Be mindful of the environmental conditions of the room, such as temperature, humidity, and airflow. Avoid wallpapering in rooms with extreme conditions, like bathrooms or kitchens, without using wallpaper specifically designed for these environments.
- Look for wallpapers with moisture-resistant coatings when considering rooms with higher humidity levels.
- Ensure your home is properly ventilated to help maintain the longevity of the wallpaper.
13. Not Matching Wallpaper with Furniture and Decor
While selecting wallpaper, it’s easy to get carried away with the patterns and colors you love. However, ignoring how the wallpaper will pair with your existing furniture, lighting, and decor can result in a mismatched and cluttered look.
Tip:
- Always consider the style of your furniture and decor when choosing wallpaper. If your furniture is minimalist, bold wallpaper can add a striking contrast. On the other hand, if your furniture is busy with patterns or colors, you might want to opt for simpler wallpaper.
- Use a sample swatch of wallpaper before making a final decision. This can help you visualize how it will look with your furniture and decor in the space.
- Wallpaper with muted or neutral tones can be a great backdrop to statement pieces, allowing the room’s decor to shine without overwhelming the senses.
14. Improperly Applying Wallpaper to Feature Walls
Feature walls are a fantastic way to add drama and depth to a room, but applying wallpaper improperly can lead to a jarring effect rather than a stylish focal point.
Tip:
- When using wallpaper on a feature wall, make sure it’s the most visible wall in the room, such as the one behind the bed in the bedroom or the one opposite the window in the living room.
- If you’re using a bold or intricate design, keep the surrounding walls neutral to prevent the room from feeling too busy.
- Consider the scale of the wallpaper design—larger patterns may be overwhelming on a feature wall in a small room, while smaller patterns may get lost in a large room.
15. Overlooking Wallpaper Maintenance
After installation, wallpapers need some maintenance to preserve their look over time. Failing to do so can result in fading, dust accumulation, or stains that are difficult to clean.
Tip:
- Regularly dust the wallpaper with a soft cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment to keep it looking fresh. Some wallpapers, especially textured ones, can trap dust and dirt more easily, so regular upkeep is necessary.
- If your wallpaper is washable, gently clean it with a damp cloth or sponge. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing to prevent damaging the surface.
- For deeper stains or cleaning, it’s advisable to consult a wallpaper expert or installer for specialized products that can effectively restore the wallpaper’s appearance without causing damage.
16. Inadequate Lighting for Wallpapered Spaces
Lighting can make or break the appearance of your wallpaper. Without proper lighting, even the most beautiful wallpaper can appear flat or uninspiring.
Tip:
- Install accent lighting that highlights the beauty of your wallpaper. Recessed lighting, sconces, or LED strips can enhance the texture and patterns of the wallpaper.
- Natural light is an excellent way to bring out the full vibrancy of your wallpaper, so if possible, try to place wallpapered walls near windows to benefit from sunlight during the day.
- Be cautious of the effects of direct sunlight, which can fade wallpaper over time. Use sheer curtains or blinds to diffuse the light and protect your wallpaper from UV damage.
17. Neglecting to Factor in Wallpaper Removal
If you plan to update your home decor frequently, removing wallpaper can become a challenge if it’s not installed with removal in mind. This mistake can lead to peeling, wall damage, and frustration during future renovations.
Tip:
- When purchasing wallpaper, look for easy-to-remove options, especially if you’re renting or plan to change your decor soon. Peel-and-stick wallpapers or wallpapers with a removable adhesive are great options for this scenario.
- If you’re using traditional wallpaper, opt for one that is strippable or washable, as these are easier to remove when you’re ready to make a change.
- Always test a small section of the wallpaper to see how easily it comes off the wall before committing to the entire room.
18. Not Considering Eco-Friendly Options
With sustainability becoming increasingly important, many homeowners are choosing eco-friendly wallpapers that are made from sustainable materials and produced with environmentally friendly methods. Ignoring these options can lead to unnecessary waste or the use of toxic materials.
Tip:
- Look for wallpaper brands and manufacturers that offer eco-friendly options. Many wallpaper manufacturers in India are now producing wallpapers made from recycled materials or biodegradable substances.
- If you’re particularly concerned about indoor air quality, choose wallpapers with low or no VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which can contribute to poor indoor air quality.
- Research sustainable wallpaper designs that do not compromise on style or quality, so you can decorate responsibly without sacrificing aesthetics.
19. Skipping Wallpaper Samples
Buying wallpaper online or from a wallpaper dealer in India might offer you a wide range of choices, but purchasing without sampling can lead to unpleasant surprises once you start the installation process. The colors and patterns may look different in person or under different lighting conditions.
Tip:
- Always request a sample or swatch of the wallpaper before making a final purchase. This will give you a chance to see how the wallpaper looks in your space, both in terms of color and texture.
- Take the sample home, and test it out in different lighting conditions to see how it complements the room at various times of day.
- Many wallpaper manufacturers and dealers offer sample sizes for a nominal fee, so it’s always worth investing a little more upfront to avoid costly mistakes later.
Conclusion
Installing wallpaper is a rewarding home improvement project that can elevate any room’s ambiance. However, achieving professional-looking results requires careful planning, attention to detail, and patience. From selecting the right wallpaper to ensuring proper installation and maintenance, each step is crucial for ensuring that your wallpaper looks flawless for years to come.
As you prepare to buy wallpaper for walls online or visit a wallpaper dealer in India, keep these common mistakes in mind and follow our tips for avoiding them. By choosing the right wallpaper, preparing your walls properly, and taking your time during installation, you can transform your space with ease. Whether you’re using wallpaper to create a dramatic focal point or add subtle texture, the perfect wallpaper can completely transform your home, creating a stylish and sophisticated environment.
