"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."
Textured or patterned vinyl wallpaper designs are the best option for hiding imperfections. Embossed designs or faux finishes like brick, wood, or linen textures are especially effective at camouflaging dents, cracks, or uneven surfaces. Avoid smooth, shiny finishes, as they can highlight flaws rather than conceal them.
Deciding between a lighter or darker accent wall depends on the effect you’re going for. Choosing an accent wall in a lighter color will make a room feel brighter and more spacious and complement rooms with less natural light. A darker accent wall will add drama and depth to a room and help make larger rooms feel more cozy and intimate.
No, you don’t always have to remove old wallpaper before applying a new layer. However, you should pull off the existing wallpaper if it’s cracked, peeling, or in poor condition. We’d also recommend against putting wallpaper over textured or dark-colored wallpaper because the old layer may be visible through the new one. In addition, if you try to hang new wallpaper over vinyl-coated wallpaper, the adhesive might not stick properly.
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.
Having dated, peeling, or otherwise damaged wallpaper can decrease the value of your property, so removing that before listing your house is nearly always a good idea; however, since wallpaper tends to be a personal style choice, potential buyers may or may not love your aesthetic as much as you do.
Love the look of wallpaper but want to consider property value as well? Stick with something that is easy to change. If you are thinking of selling soon, make sure your wallpaper hanging is on-point and looks professional with no crooked seams, evenly matched patterns, and minimal bubbling or other imperfections.
The Vienna, WV 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.