FAQ
Have questions about wallpaper installation? We have answers.
Where can I buy wallpaper in Greenville, S. C. ?
There is not a retail store in upstate SC that sells in-stock wallpaper. Sherwinn Williams has the most accessible selection of resources. SW will normally have a specialist in store. It is best to check the location as some do not have wallpaper books. We work with several designers that carry some great quality resource books which you can order from. There are plenty of papers available on the internet but it is best to order a sample first to ensure you are getting the paper you want. Often it is difficult to judge things like texture and quality by seeing the wallpaper on an electronic screen.
What is the best method for hanging wallpaper?
I prefer 'paste the paper' method. It gives the most pliable options of all methods and allows moving the paper without stretching it. 'Paste the wall' is another good method but makes positioning the wallpaper more restricted. However, both of these methods work well enough to get superior jobs. 'Prepasted dipping' is much less desirable because it is messier and requires more cleaning once installed. 'Peel and stick' is great for apartments or other areas that may require the wall covering to be removed. Many murals are peel and stick and the drawback to me is the overlapped seams that are suggested by the manufacturer. It is always best to follow the manufacturer’s directions to assure proper adhesion and to not void the wall covering's guarantee.
Is wallpaper removal necessary before painting or installing new wallpaper?
Yes, it is important to remove old wallpaper from the wall before painting or applying new wallpaper. Old wallpaper can prevent the new wallpaper from adhering properly and may cause damage if not removed . Here are some steps to consider when removing wallpaper:
1) Use water and a removal solution to minimize damage to the wall.
2) repair all damage to the wall and prime the wall before installing new paper or painting.
It is possible to hang over old wallpaper if removal is going to damage the drywall but it is important to prime the old and use joint compound to sand and smooth out old overlaps and places where paper may be coming loose.
Should walls be primed before installing wallpaper?
Absolutely! It is very important to prime walls before installing paper that will be glued to the wall. It is a minimal fee to do this process and it assurees easy removal. Also, it assures good adhesion and ability to repair the wallpaper if it is damaged.
What do I need to know before ordering wallpaper?
Be sure you are ordering traditional wallpaper and not ordering a mural. Sometimes murals are pictures that do not repeat and multiple murals cannot be added together. It is also important to note repeat, the type of repeat including straight across or (½, ⅓, ¼) drop matches, and also the length and width of the rolls. You should also decide if you would like to have additional paper in the event some may need to be repaired.
How do I measure for wallpaper?
You can Google a wallpaper calculator and the supplier of your wallpaper will have one on site. The best and most accurate way to know how much wallpaper to order is to call Rodger. He can assess exactly how much you need by using the dimensions and counting the cuts that will need to be made. We will be happy to do a free consultation that will provide you with how much wallpaper to order.
Is peel and stick wallpaper quality as good as other wallcoverings?
Peel and stick wallpaper has become increasingly popular due to its ease of use and flexibility, but its quality can vary. Advantages of peel and stick include: Ease of application and removability. No priming is necessary before installation. The variety, the quality, and durability can vary greatly. The are some heavy duty peel and stick of good quality, but I suggest you check the reviews on the specific paper you choose.
Do wallpaper mural installations differ from regular wallpaper installs?
Murals come in strips that are hung in sequence, (strip 1, then 2, then 3, and so on). I typically start in the middle so you can assure the focal point is in the middle and have to make less adjustments if the ceiling or base isn't level. Peel and stick murals do not require adhesive and sometimes ask that seams are overlapped.
Does wallpaper hide damaged sheetrock?
Most wallpaper does not hide sheetrock damage very well. All walls should be as smooth as most painted walls before hanging your wallpaper or the defects will probably be noticable. There are textured and liner papers that are designed to soften the effects of defective drywall. It helps greatly to sand and patch rough walls so that more traditional types of wallpaper can be installed.
Does Wallpaper by Rodger do sheetrock repair?
Yes, we are very skilled at repairing drywall damage, especially damage related to removal of old wallpaper. In some instances where there is a need to install new drywall we are proficient at handling these projects as well.
Do you charge for wallpaper consultations?
No, we do not charge for consultations. We will be happy to come out and measure for the projects you are considering. We can go over your options as well as explain the pros and cons of the wallcoverings you are considering.
Do you provide painting?
Yes, we have a sister company, Painting by Rodger, that has a wide range of services. We are proficient at all elements of painting ceilings, wall, trim, and cabinets. If you would like to learn more about our painting services, please visit PaintingbyRodger.com.