Wallpaper Installation in Columbus: What to Expect
You’ve found the perfect wallpaper and can already picture how it will transform your room. So, what happens next?
Professional wallpaper installation typically involves evaluating the walls, preparing the surface, measuring and planning the layout, carefully matching patterns, installing each panel, and completing a final inspection.
At Namaste Design & Painting, careful preparation is an important part of the process. Here’s what Columbus homeowners can expect when planning a professional wallpaper installation.
1. Start With Your Wallpaper and Your Space
Every wallpaper project is different.
Before installation, I’ll want to understand the space you’re transforming and the wallpaper you’ve selected. The type of wallcovering, dimensions of the room, wall condition, and complexity of the pattern can all affect the installation.
If you haven’t purchased your wallpaper yet, it’s helpful to discuss the project before ordering so you can determine how much material you’ll need.
2. Measure and Calculate How Much Wallpaper You Need
Ordering enough wallpaper is important—and calculating it isn’t always as simple as determining the square footage of your walls.
Wallpaper comes in different roll sizes, and patterned papers have a pattern repeat that must be considered. Matching a large floral or geometric design from one panel to another can require additional material.
Doors, windows, ceiling height, and other architectural features can also affect the amount needed.
It’s generally better to have appropriate extra material available than discover midway through installation that another roll is needed.
3. Evaluate and Prepare the Walls
Wall preparation is one of the most important steps in wallpaper installation.
Wallpaper needs an appropriate surface underneath it to look and perform its best.
Depending on the condition of your walls, preparation may include:
- Removing existing wallpaper
- Cleaning the surface
- Filling nail holes or small imperfections
- Repairing damaged areas
- Sanding uneven surfaces
- Applying an appropriate primer
Wallpaper isn’t necessarily a shortcut for hiding damaged walls. Proper preparation helps create a smoother finished appearance and better adhesion.
4. Plan the Wallpaper Layout
Before the first panel goes up, the layout needs to be considered.
This is especially important with wallpaper featuring prominent patterns, murals, or designs with a focal point.
The goal is to determine where the pattern should begin, how it will move around the room, and how important design elements will interact with corners, doors, windows, and other features.
Thoughtful planning can make a noticeable difference in the finished room.
5. Install and Match the Wallpaper
Once the walls and layout are ready, installation begins.
Each panel needs to be positioned carefully while maintaining the correct pattern alignment. Depending on the wallpaper, this may involve applying adhesive or following a manufacturer-specific installation method.
Attention is also given to seams, corners, ceilings, baseboards, windows, doors, outlets, and other areas where precise trimming is required.
This is where professional installation can be especially valuable with detailed patterns and specialty wallcoverings.
6. Inspect the Finished Installation
After installation, the walls are reviewed for alignment, seams, edges, and the overall appearance of the wallpaper.
The result should feel like a cohesive part of the room rather than a series of individual wallpaper panels.
How Long Does Wallpaper Installation Take?
Wallpaper installation time depends on the size and complexity of the project.
A single accent wall may require considerably less time than an entire room. Wall preparation, existing wallpaper removal, room layout, wallpaper material, and pattern complexity can all affect the timeline.
I can give you a better idea of what to expect after reviewing your particular project.
Do I Need to Prepare the Room Before My Installer Arrives?
It can be helpful to remove small decorative items, artwork, and other belongings from the immediate work area.
If furniture needs to be moved or there are other preparations required for your particular project, we can discuss those details before installation day.
Should I Buy Wallpaper Before Contacting an Installer?
You can, but contacting your installer before ordering can be helpful, particularly if you’re unsure how much wallpaper you’ll need.
Roll dimensions and pattern repeats vary considerably between manufacturers. Reviewing those details before purchasing can help reduce the risk of ordering too little material.
Can Wallpaper Be Installed Over Painted Walls?
In many cases, yes—but the painted wall still needs to be evaluated and properly prepared.
The condition and finish of the existing paint can affect the preparation required. Damaged areas, holes, uneven surfaces, or other imperfections may need attention before wallpaper is installed.
Can You Install New Wallpaper Over Existing Wallpaper?
Removing existing wallpaper and evaluating the wall underneath is generally the better approach.
Old wallpaper can conceal wall damage or adhesion problems, and adding another layer can affect the quality of the new installation. Once the existing material is removed, the underlying surface can be properly prepared for the new wallcovering.
Professional Wallpaper Installation in Columbus, Ohio
Wallpaper can add color, pattern, texture, and personality in ways few other finishes can. Professional installation helps ensure the preparation, pattern placement, seams, and finishing details receive the attention they deserve.
Namaste Design & Painting provides professional wallpaper installation in Columbus, New Albany, Westerville, Gahanna, Upper Arlington, Bexley, and surrounding Central Ohio communities.
From powder rooms and bedrooms to dining rooms, nurseries, offices, and statement walls, I can help bring your wallpaper vision to life.
Ready to transform your walls? Contact Namaste Design & Painting for a complimentary wallpaper installation estimate in Columbus, Ohio.