"I only use James when I need some work done to my house. He responds fast, gets the work done quicker than just about anyone else I've ever used and seems very concerned with leaving his customers happy."
Walls should be as smooth as possible before applying peel-and-stick wallpaper. Although you technically can apply wallpaper on textured walls, the peel-and-stick variety won’t last long without a clean, smooth surface for the adhesive to stick to. If you have textured walls, consult a pro about removing the textured finish before moving forward with wallpaper.
Darker walls may make tight bathrooms appear even smaller, but one dark accent wall can really make a bathroom pop. Wallpaper with a dark background can add intrigue and sophistication. Still, if you’re looking to open the room up and give it a modern, airy feeling, light colors may work best for your needs. Although there are some popular and unpopular opinions, there’s really no “should” when it comes to personal design choice.
One of the biggest downsides to peel-and-stick wallpaper is that it doesn't last as long as traditional wallpaper. Its lifespan depends on several factors, including the quality of the paper, proper wall preparation and application, and the room's conditions. As a general rule, peel-and-stick wallpaper can last for at least five years, but this can vary significantly. Budget products may only last about 3 years, while higher-quality products can stay up for 7 years or more in ideal conditions. Factors that can shorten its lifespan include high humidity (such as in a bathroom), dirty walls, and low-quality paper. If used on flooring, expect it to last only 1 to 3 years unless sealed. However, the shorter lifespan can be seen as a positive, making it a great choice for people who enjoy switching up their interiors more frequently.
While many types of peel-and-stick wallpaper can be used in bathrooms, they may not adhere as well in humid environments as traditional wallpaper. For best results, choose a vinyl or polyester-based wallpaper, as these materials are more durable and water-resistant. Good ventilation is also crucial to reduce humidity from steamy showers. In bathrooms with high moisture and inadequate ventilation, even high-quality peel-and-stick wallpaper is likely to peel over time.
Both paint and wallpaper can work in a bathroom, provided you choose high-quality products in either category. Washable vinyl wallpapers can stand up to bathroom humidity without peeling, as can semi-gloss or gloss paint finishes. However, if you’re someone who likes to redecorate often, paint may make it easier to change colors or designs more quickly. If you want full humidity protection and cleanability, tile or stone works better.
The Ledger, MT homeowners’ guide to wallpaper services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Discover wallpaper installation cost. Learn about material, labor, and project factors to estimate your budget and make informed choices for your home.
Whether you can put wallpaper over wallpaper depends on the type of paper you’re using and the condition of the existing surface. Learn more with this guide.
