Q: How long does wallpaper last?

• <div><p>Wallpaper lasts an average of around <b>15 years</b>, but there is some variance. The type of wallpaper matters, as vinyl wallpaper tends to last the longest&mdash;sometimes 20 years or more&mdash;while a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/peel-and-stick-vs-traditional-wallpaper.htm">peel-and-stick wallpaper</a>, which is the easiest to install for DIYers, will usually only last for around five years. Exposure to high humidity, smoke, and UV rays from sunlight can also limit the lifespan of your wallpaper, as can heavy traffic in the installation area.</p></div>

Question 1

Why should I hire a professional wallpaper hanger?

Accepted Answer

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Hiring a professional wallpaper hanger is usually a worthwhile idea because, while the application of wallpaper itself is easy, getting the finished product to look good is complicated and takes a lot of practice and patience. A professional wallpaper hanger will not only be able to hang your wallpaper seamlessly, but they will also get an even application of wallpaper paste to avoid bubbling and imperfections immediately and over time. Plus, they can provide their professional opinion on whether to remove or wallpaper over an existing layer of wallpaper.

Question 2

How many rolls of peel-and-stick wallpaper do I need?

Accepted Answer

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To determine how many rolls of peel-and-stick wallpaper you need, measure the square footage of the walls you’re covering and divide that by the square footage that each roll covers. Add 10% to 20% of your total square footage to account for pattern matching or damage while installing.

Question 3

How long does wallpaper last?

Accepted Answer

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Wallpaper lasts an average of around 15 years, but there is some variance. The type of wallpaper matters, as vinyl wallpaper tends to last the longest—sometimes 20 years or more—while a peel-and-stick wallpaper, which is the easiest to install for DIYers, will usually only last for around five years. Exposure to high humidity, smoke, and UV rays from sunlight can also limit the lifespan of your wallpaper, as can heavy traffic in the installation area.

Question 4

How many coats of paint do paintable wallpapers need?

Accepted Answer

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The color of the paint, its opacity, and the depth of the texture on the paper all affect how many coats of paint you need to apply to paintable wallpaper. You'll need at least two coats of paint to ensure even coverage. Don’t be surprised if you need to apply three coats if the embossing is very deep or if you use a dark color.

Question 5

What are some common mistakes when finishing basement walls?

Accepted Answer

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Common mistakes when finishing basement walls include neglecting proper insulation, insufficient moisture management, and poor ventilation. Not addressing these issues can lead to mold growth, water damage, and discomfort. Additionally, inadequate planning, improper framing, and rushing the project can result in subpar outcomes.

It's essential to follow best practices, seek professional guidance if needed, and prioritize thoroughness and attention to detail.