The importance of properly preparing walls before wallpaper installation

Wallpaper installation is a fantastic way to transform any space, adding warmth, style, and personality to your room. However, to ensure that your wallpaper lasts and looks flawless, proper wall preparation is crucial. In this article, titled β€œThe importance of properly preparing walls before wallpaper installation,” we’ll discuss why thorough preparation is essential and walk you through the necessary steps to achieve the best results.

Wallpaper: spoonflower

🧼 Step 1: Cleaning the surface

First and foremost, make sure your walls are clean. 🧽
🟒 Remove dust, dirt, grease, stains, and any leftover wallpaper.
These surface contaminants can prevent the adhesive from sticking properly.

βœ… Pro tip: Don’t forget corners and areas behind radiators β€” dirt loves to hide there!

πŸ› οΈ Step 2: Patching and spackling

Next, examine your walls for imperfections.
🟑 Fill in dents, chips, cracks, and small holes using filler or spackle.
This step helps create a smooth, even surface for flawless wallpaper adhesion.

🎯 Smooth surfaces = clean-looking wallpaper without bumps or air pockets.

πŸͺ΅ Step 3: Sanding the wall

After patching, it’s time to sand.
🟀 Lightly sand the entire surface to remove rough spots and excess filler.
This gives your wallpaper glue a better grip and ensures a seamless finish.

🧰 Important: Always wear a dust mask while sanding!

🎨 Step 4: Priming the surface

Now, let’s talk about priming β€” and no, you shouldn’t skip it.
βšͺ Primer seals the wall and prevents excessive glue absorption.
It also helps wallpaper slide into place during installation and reduces the risk of peeling.

πŸ§ͺ Especially crucial for porous walls like drywall or fresh plaster.

πŸ“ Step 5: Leveling and final inspection

Before you begin wallpapering, use a level and straight edge to check wall alignment.
πŸ”΅ Uneven walls can make patterns look crooked.
Fix irregularities or choose wallpapers that disguise small flaws if perfect alignment is impossible.

πŸ” Even a small slope can ruin the entire look!

🧩 Why proper prep makes all the difference

When you take time to prepare the wall, the difference is clear:

  • 🌟 Better adhesion = fewer air bubbles and no peeling.

  • 🧱 Smooth look = professional-quality finish.

  • πŸ•°οΈ Longer lifespan = wallpaper stays beautiful for years.

Skipping these steps often leads to early damage, poor aesthetics, and reinstallation headaches. πŸ™…β€β™‚οΈ

πŸ§‘β€πŸ”§ Should you DIY?

Even though some brands claim β€œanyone can install,” the reality is different.
πŸ“Œ Most wallpaper types β€” especially premium, thick, or patterned ones β€” require skill.
If you’re not confident or if walls need major prep, hiring a professional installer will save you time, stress, and potential waste.

Material and manufacturer

Our company works with various manufacturers and suppliers, among them Vasari, Firmolux, Stuccoitaliano, Biolime, Chalkdownlime, Masterofplaster, Texston. After many years of experience, we can confidently say: that materials and experience are the two main keys to high-quality workmanship!

Explore our four main services and make the right decision to start cooperating with us. Choose professionals and get high-quality services. We are proud of the trust of our clients and appreciate mutually beneficial cooperation! Contact us and get to know our approach to each client!

Conclusion

To sum up, wall preparation is the foundation of successful wallpaper installation.
Clean, repair, sand, prime, and inspect β€” follow these five key steps for a stunning result that lasts.

πŸ’¬ Still unsure about your wall condition or wallpaper type?
πŸ“ž Consult a professional installer before beginning.