Wallpaper
If you’re like me, the memories of laboring over taking down bad wallpaper from the 70’s and 80’s still haunt you. I think most of us have stories of taking it down and that may even limit you from being open to the idea of putting it up in your home! I completely understand! The first home I purchased had seven layers of wall paper in the kitchen…SEVEN! That was zero fun and maybe I should have just put up one more layer!?! Of course, in the early 2000’s, wall paper wasn’t a thing so I didn’t even consider it. There has been a major shift over the last several years and I’m here to help ease the decision with a few pointers.
Budget
First of all, to wallpaper, even a small room can be very costly. When you google, “an average cost of a roll of wallpaper” you get $25-$50 per roll. However, I haven’t found a roll I like at that price and typically I have spent around $100 a roll. The most expensive was $316 a roll and the least expensive was $60 a roll. That’s a big difference on price! I would budget on the high end and you also need to budget for the following:
Wall Paper
Wall Prep
Installer
Selection
A couple of points to consider here. What to pick out and where to pick out? The possibilities for wallpaper are endless. So be prepared to be overwhelmed! This is a selection that I believe should be made without reservation or hesitation. Meaning, if you’re going to do it then GO FOR IT! Have fun, be creative and pick the one that makes you happy inside. You know the one that excites you, maybe even makes you laugh and certainly the one that just feels right. When I select wallpaper, I personally like to select in-person. I like to touch it, see the colors in person and feel the quality. I have used the local shops, Kasa Wallpaper and Munger Paint and Wallcovering locally. Both have excellent customer experiences and I have always found what I want. If you’re an online shopper, I would recommend to read reviews or buy from an inspiration photo as not all wall paper is created equal. Also, get a sample if possible to really make sure it’s what you want.
Wall Prep
When you’re building a new home, make sure and tell your builder BEFORE drywall goes up as they will prepare the walls for wallpaper and that will save you time, money and a mess. If you are wanting to install on your current home, you need to make sure your walls are ready. Wallpaper installs better on smooth, clean surfaces. Don’t miss this step! You can google for more specific details on wall preparation. I just want you to make sure before you get too excited about wallpapering some part in your house, you know what you’re getting in to!! So, look at the walls in advance to determine if any or what preparation needs to be done before it’s installed.
Installer
Every installer I have worked with has been fantastic! They often will come out and quote you a price, help tell you how many rolls you need and also if your walls are ready. I think they are worth every penny and the price varies on the size of the room and the count of cuts into the paper. Some rooms are more complicated or take more time so be prepared for it to cost several hundred dollars for install.
Alternative
There is an alternative to wallpaper… paint! There are some amazing examples of painting a wall that looks like wallpaper. So if you dare, go for that. It could save you a lot of money!
I would love to hear of your wallpaper removal horror stories or even see some of your recent wallpaper choices! So please leave a comment or message me a picture as I love seeing what you’re up to! Happy wall paper hunting and remember, be you and be meaningful with design!
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Designer with a purpose,
Micah Abbananto
