Ever stared at your textured painted walls, craving a splash of color or pattern, but stopped yourself, questioning, "Can you put wallpaper on textured painted walls?" The answer is yes, but it requires careful preparation and the right technique. Let's delve into the fascinating world of wallpapering textured walls.
Textured walls add dimension and character to your space, but their uneven surfaces pose unique challenges when applying wallpaper. Before you reach for that dreamy wallpaper design, let's explore the dos and don'ts of papering your textured walls.
Preparing Your Textured Walls
Preparation is key when wallpapering textured walls. The goal is to create a smooth, even surface for your wallpaper to adhere to. Here's how to prep your walls:
Starting with a clean slate is vital. Remove any existing wallpaper or paint, ensuring no residue remains. If you're dealing with a fresh textured wall, allow any new paint to fully cure before proceeding.
Sanding
Sanding helps to smooth out the textured surface, providing a better base for your wallpaper. Use a fine-grit sandpaper (between 120-150 grit) and work in the direction of the texture. Be sure to sand lightly to avoid dulling the texture completely.
Dust off any sanding residue with a damp cloth. If you encounter any stubborn patchiness or raised grain, you may need to apply a wallpaper primer or use a wallpaper-specific undercoat with built-in smoothing properties.
Applying Wallpaper Paste
Once your walls are prepped, it's time to choose the right wallpaper paste. Opt for a high-quality, general-purpose paste, suitable for both vinyl and paper wallpapers. Steer clear of pastes with added fungicides, as these can damage your wallpaper over time.
When applying the paste, work in small sections, ensuring full coverage on the wallpaper. This technique helps control the paste-to-wallpaper ratio and prevents the paste from drying out too quickly. For heavy-duty, textured walls, consider using extra-paste products designed to enhance adhesion and strengthen the wallpaper.
Applying Wallpaper to Textured Walls
Now that your walls are primed and your paste is ready, let's tackle the main event: applying the wallpaper. Follow these steps for a successful installation:
Measure your wall to determine the width of your wallpaper strips. Most wallpapers come in 21" (533mm) widths, but double-check your specific pattern. Mark your measurements using a level to ensure straight cuts.
Booking
Booking is the process of folding the wallpaper strips into a loose 'C' shape, with the patterned side facing out. This allows the paste to fully penetrate the wallpaper, enhancing adhesion. Let your wallpaper 'book' for around 5-10 minutes before hanging.
Start in the center of your wall, applying the first strip with the help of a wallpaper pasting brush. Use the 'rule of three' technique: press the wallpaper onto the wall using a seam roller, work from the center outwards, and repeat the process three times in each direction to remove any air bubbles and ensure full contact with the wall.
Matching Patterns
Matching patterns is crucial for a seamless, professional-looking finish. Carefully apply your second wallpaper strip, ensuring the pattern aligns with the first strip. Use a wallpaper seam roller to smooth out any unevenness and press the strips together firmly.
Continue the process, working your way across the wall and up to the ceiling. When applying wallpaper near electrical outlets, carefully cut around the edges, using a utility knife and a cutting guide to ensure clean, straight cuts. Once your wall is fully papered, allow ample drying time before trimming any excess wallpaper and pressing down seams.
Finishing Touches
After your wallpaper has dried, use a smoothing brush to gently brush over seams and any raised edges. This helps to ensure a smooth, even finish. If necessary, use a wallpaper repair kit to fill any minor imperfections or Côte d'Azur lines.
Step back and admire your handiwork! Your once-textured walls are now a vibrant, beautiful space that showcases your unique wallpaper design.
Embracing the challenge of wallpapering textured walls can result in a truly stunning, personalized space. With the right preparation, patience, and technique, you can transform your textured walls into a showstopping feature. So, go ahead and let your creativity flow – your dream wallpapered room awaits!