Wall graphics, like wallpapers, can change the appearance of any space. The two main types of wallpaper are removable wallpaper and standard wallpaper. Here is how to choose the right type of wallpaper for your space:
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Removable Wallpaper
Removable wallpaper sticks to the wall and resembles a large, durable sticker. While many materials can form removable wallpaper, vinyl paper is common. The paper comes in the form of a roll from which you peel off the wallpaper. You attach the wallpaper to your wall without using water, paste, or adhesives.
Removable wallpaper is available in various textures, patterns, and colors. The wallpapers are ideal when you:
- Rent a home and need a temporary fix for the walls.
- Want to cover a small wall section, like the back of a bookcase.
- Want to try out a new trend but don’t want to commit to a long-term change.
- Want to decorate an evolving space, like the kids’ room.
Removable wallpaper has a few disadvantages. You can remove the wallpaper and stick it to another part of the wall, but it will lose some of its glue whenever you peel it off. In the end, the paper might become loose.
Another disadvantage is that the wallpaper usually comes in standard sizes. The paper might not fit a tall wall.
Many homeowners are moving to removable wallpaper because of the following reasons:
Easy To Install
Anybody can install removable wallpaper regardless of their experience. This makes removable wallpaper an easier option than painting your walls. And once you get tired of the look, you can peel off the wallpaper with ease and without tools. No residue will remain on the wall after removal, making it easier to paint the walls or apply a new removable wallpaper.
Affordable
Home renovation projects can be costly, especially when you want to replace existing fixtures. The cost can be high for standard wallpaper, with some rolls going for hundreds of dollars. But a peel-and-stick wallpaper will cost a few dollars per square foot.
Standard Wallpaper
The distinguishing feature of standard wallpapers is the use of an adhesive substance to stick the paper to a wall. The first versions of standard wallpapers used vinyl materials. But cleaning or peeling off vinyl materials was complex. This prompted interior designers to promote non-woven materials for standard wallpapers.
Non-woven materials usually are synthetic and natural fibers that combine to create breathable wall graphics. The fibers also prevent mold from growing on your walls. But some people still use vinyl wallpaper, especially on walls that need protection from moisture and oils.
Applying a standard wallpaper starts with pasting the adhesive to the wall to create a strong bond. The installer will then place the wallpaper on the wall and use a flat squeegee to smooth the surface. Since the adhesive takes longer to dry, you can manipulate and move the paper even after placing it on the wall.
Traditional wallpaper may be perfect in the following situations:
- When decorating a large space like an entire house.
- If your home is old and doesn’t have straight walls.
- If you have the budget to pay a professional wallpaper installer.
- If you plan to use the wallpaper for many years.
- If you own the home.
The main benefit of standard wallpaper is that it is durable. Some standard wallpaper designs can remain on your walls for over a decade without extra maintenance. This is even better than paint which requires retouching every few years.
Standard wallpaper is also versatile and comes in many patterns, colors, and textures. If you have a specific design pattern or color in mind, you will likely get a standard wallpaper with that design.
After installation, removing standard wallpaper can be hard. You might need special tools and a lot of time to remove the paper.
Removable Vs. Standard Wall Graphics
Both have easy customization and options. Standard wallpaper will remain on your walls longer than removable. The increased lifespan comes at a cost, as standard wallpapers are more expensive than removable wallpapers. The cost of traditional wallpapers also increases when you hire a professional to install the wallpaper.
Some types of wallpapers can increase the resale value of your home. Whichever type of wall graphics you choose, maintain it well to reap the benefits. Keep moisture away from the wallpaper and keep your room well ventilated.