Wallpaper: hate it or love it? We never really were in the wallpaper camp, until we started working with some great designers that showed us how wallpaper can really add character to a room - we thank you for showing us the error of our ways! So now we are on board with team wallpaper, what next? I think many of us know the ins and outs of choosing paint (and many of the brands), but wallpaper is a bit more complex (or for us it was!) Today we break down the different types of wallpaper, installation options and some brands we are loving right now!
Why Wallpaper?
Even though wallpaper may be more expensive than paint, it does have many types, some of which are more affordable. It is also available in a wife variety of designs, patterns and surface finishes. Many types of wallpaper can last upwards of 15 years and many are washable. For some installations, it is also easy to switch out the wallpaper for a quick room refresh. Wallpaper can really change the ambiance of a space and elevate the design and is especially handy in temporary homes (like dorms or rentals), since it can beastly installed and removed without leaving a trace. Unlike paint, wallpaper can also hide small defects easily, with little preparations.
Photo: DESIGNECOLOGIST
Types of Wallpaper
Liner (Lining Paper) Made from paper or fibreglass, it is effective for hiding wall defects and minimising repairs, and it can be a base for more delicate wallpaper types. It can be used alone, layered with other wallpaper or painted. It is very easy to apply and remove.
Printed A common wallpaper that is readily available in a wide variety of colours and patterns. Digitally-printed wallpaper is usually more cost-effective than hand-printed wallpaper. Since the printing ink is typically water-based, it is not well suited for kitchens and bathrooms.
Vinyl Vinyl wallpaper is composed of printed paper coated with a vinyl layer. It is the most widely used type of wallpaper due to its high durability. The thicker the vinyl coating layer is, the more durable the wallpaper will be. Vinyl wallpaper can also be washed so it is very user-friendly. Since it can withstand steam, it is suitable for both kitchens and bathrooms.
Foil A polished metal foil is used as a base for this type of wallpaper and gives the interior space a tiny metallic effect. Since it is highly reflective, foil wallpaper highlights wall defects. When using foil wallpaper, base walls need to be repaired, treated or covered with lining paper first. The lining and adhering process needs to be neat and clean so as not to ruin the foil’s reflectivity and shine.
Flock Flock wallpaper has unique 3D patterns created from a velvet-like fibre that is printed on a base of paper. It is one of the more expensive wallpaper types and it is hard to maintain. Its velvety texture means that it is not washable (but it does add a feeling of luxury!) This type of wallpaper is suggested for use in low-traffic rooms, like the master or guest bedrooms.
Mylar This type of wallpaper has a printed paper base and a polyester film applied on top. This creates a wet or shiny appearance (similar to foil wallpaper), which also highlights wall defects (and paper lining of the base wall is also recommended). A more careful installation should be considered when using mylar to avoid any creasing of the wallpaper. Mylar wallpaper is washable (due to the polyester film) and is commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms.
Bamboo This type is handcrafted from natural bamboo and glue to paper. It is environmentally friendly and there are slight hue variances from one roll to another due to the natural base. It requires delicate treatment when gluing and installing as the adhesives can ruin its appearance, and it is not washable.
Photo: Josh Hemsley
Installation
Wallpaper can definitely be DIY (and there are many “peel and stick” options these days). If doing it yourself here are a couple things to keep in mind:
Choose the right adhesive Check the label on your wallpaper for the specific type of adhesive that should be used (there are differences between paper and vinyl)
Round up your measurements Always order 2-4 more rolls of paper for waste and overages - mistakes will happen whether you’re a professional or not! Stores also routinely discontinue styles, so you’ll be glad for extra paper later on!
Leveling is critical Always make sure your first sheet is perfectly level (even if your house is not). Use a level and measuring tape to be extra exact.
Start with smooth walls You will have a cleaner finished product if you lightly sand your walls and then scrub them down with a wet sponge and light detergent.
Use a wallpaper sweep Make sure to use a sweep versus a brush - you can buy one for a few dollars at any home improvement store.
Don’t panic if you see bubbles Air is most likely going to get trapped between the paper and the wall, but this should go away as the wallpaper settles and the adhesive dries. If it doesn’t, just puncture the bubble with a small pin and gently flatten out the paper with the wallpaper sweep.
Not sure self-installation is for you? You can always hire someone to do the job! Feel free to contact us at info@parkroadconcierge.ca for some contacts that we have worked with in the past.
Photo: Dan Gold
Brands we’re loving!
Murals Wallpaper https://www.muralswallpaper.com Ethically sourced wallpaper, there are many great designs to choose from! You can purchase by the square foot and they walk you through the installation process if you’re planning on a self-install. They offer free worldwide shipping, but be aware the prices you see will be quoted in USD and expect duties if shipping to Canada!
KENDALL & Co https://kendallandco.ca With a showroom located in downtown Toronto, you can stop in to check out there many options of wallpaper (as well as other home decor!) All their wallpapers are specially ordered from samples in their books and their reps are very helpful in finding a specific design. They also offer installation services if you’re not keen on doing it yourself.
Primetime Paint & Paper https://primetimepaint.ca Toronto’s largest wallpaper store, they offer a large number of varieties and patterns. In addition to their low to mid range priced products, Primetime also carries wallpaper options that commonly are only available to designers. We had a great experience with their staff, and they took the time to send us a variety of options based on our inspiration photos.
New Wall https://newwall.com New Wall has a Toronto showroom downtown that is by appointment only. They carry many exclusive brands with some unique patterns. We are loving their current Balloon and Marshmallow print for a more whimsical feel. Their team is very helpful and will help you source the right pattern that you’re looking for.
Need assistance in managing a wallpaper project? Contact Park Road Concierge today for a complimentary consultation!
