Do wall have to be perfectly smooth for wallpaper?

At Wall Mastery in sunny Florida, we know that putting up wallpaper can totally change a room and add a lot of personality to your home. One question people often ask us is, “Do walls have to be perfectly smooth for wallpaper?” The short answer is no, but there’s a bit more to it if you want the best results.

Getting Walls Ready
Preparing your walls is super important for wallpapering. Even though your walls don’t need to be perfectly smooth, they should be in good shape. Bumps, cracks, and holes can mess up the wallpaper, causing bubbles and making it look uneven.

Checking Your Walls
Before you start your wallpaper project, check your walls carefully. Look for cracks, holes, or rough spots. Small imperfections are usually okay, but bigger issues might need fixing first.

Making Walls Smooth
If your walls have noticeable bumps or holes, you can use a few tricks to make them smoother:

Spackling and Sanding: Fill small holes and cracks with spackle, then sand the area smooth once it’s dry. This helps create an even surface.
Applying a Skim Coat: For bigger imperfections, a skim coat of joint compound can be applied to the whole wall. This makes the wall smooth and perfect for wallpaper.
Using Lining Paper: You can also use lining paper, which covers minor imperfections and provides a smooth surface for the wallpaper. This is great for older walls with lots of wear and tear.
Wall Texture and Wallpaper
The texture of your walls affects how well the wallpaper sticks. Here’s how different textures impact wallpapering:

Smooth Walls: These are the best for wallpapering. They let the wallpaper lie flat without bubbles or wrinkles.
Lightly Textured Walls: These can usually be wallpapered without much trouble, especially if you use thick, high-quality wallpaper.
Heavily Textured Walls: These are harder to wallpaper. You might need to apply a skim coat or use lining paper first. Otherwise, the texture will show through the wallpaper.
DIY Wallpapering Tips
If you want to wallpaper your room yourself, here are some tips:

Choose the Right Wallpaper: Pick thicker, textured wallpaper if your walls aren’t perfectly smooth. Vinyl wallpaper is a good choice because it’s durable and easier to handle.
Use Quality Adhesive: Good adhesive is key to making sure your wallpaper sticks properly and doesn’t peel away. Follow the instructions on the adhesive for the best results.
Work Carefully: Start from the top and smooth out the wallpaper as you go. Use a wallpaper brush or smoothing tool to remove air bubbles. Make sure to align patterns and seams correctly.
Pay Attention to Seams: Align and seal seams properly. Use a seam roller to press down the edges and ensure they stick well.
Professional Wallpaper Installation
Sometimes, it’s best to hire professionals for wallpapering, especially for tricky surfaces or large areas. Wall Mastery offers expert installation services across Florida, ensuring your walls look perfect no matter their condition.

Benefits of Professional Installation
Expertise: Experienced installers know how to handle different wall conditions and can use techniques to make the wallpaper look flawless.
Quality Results: Professionals have the tools and knowledge to achieve a smooth, even finish without bubbles or wrinkles.
Time-Saving: Hiring professionals saves you time and effort, letting you enjoy your beautifully wallpapered room sooner.
Guaranteed Workmanship: Wall Mastery stands by their work, offering guarantees on their installations for peace of mind.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while your walls don’t have to be perfectly smooth for wallpaper, preparing them properly is key to getting great results. By checking and fixing imperfections, using the right materials, and working carefully, you can enjoy beautiful wallpaper in your home.

For those in Florida who need professional help, Wall Mastery is here to assist. Our skilled installers ensure your wallpaper projects are done to the highest standards, transforming your walls and enhancing your living spaces. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer professional installation, Wall Mastery has the expertise and services to meet your needs.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit our website or contact us today. Let’s make your walls a masterpiece with Wall Mastery!