Learning how to fix wallpaper seams is an essential part of maintaining the elegance and personality that wallpaper adds to any room. This article will guide you through the process of dealing with common issues like bubbling, peeling, foreign objects beneath wallpaper, and, of course, troublesome seams, making the wallpaper task less intimidating and more manageable.
Understanding wallpaper types
The process for repairing common wallpaper issues, such as seams, peeling, air bubbles, and foreign objects— is the same across different types of wallpaper. Each of these issues involves a disruption of the wallpaper's adherence to the wall, and the basic steps for repairing these issues are applicable regardless of the wallpaper type. The variations lie in the type or amount of adhesive used in the repair process and the level of care required. Let's delve deeper into these slight variations:
● Non-Woven Wallpaper: These wallpapers are typically more forgiving and durable. A standard wallpaper adhesive can be used in all the repair processes discussed in this article, and the wallpaper can be manipulated with relative ease.
● Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper: These are generally easy to fix, with standard repair processes applicable. Fixing seams, peeling, air bubbles, or removing foreign objects might be as simple as re-sticking the wallpaper. However, if the adhesive has lost its stickiness, a small amount of wallpaper seam adhesive may be necessary.
● Vinyl and Fiberglass Wallpaper: These wallpapers can withstand standard repair processes. For vinyl wallpapers, ensure to use an adhesive compatible with their composition, such as a vinyl-over-vinyl (VOV) adhesive or a heavy-duty clear adhesive. For fiberglass wallpapers, a heavy-duty clear adhesive is typically suitable.
● Traditional Wallpapers (Silk, Burlap, Grasscloth, Flock Wallpapers): While the standard repair process can also be applied to these wallpapers, extra care is required due to their delicate nature. Avoid using excessive moisture and apply gentle pressure to prevent damaging the wallpaper.
Preparation before any wallpaper repairs
Whether you’re planning to repair wallpaper seams, peeling wallpaper, and air bubbles, or remove foreign objects— it's essential to take a few moments for preparation to guarantee the best possible outcome for your repair work. Here are a few preparation steps you should follow:
● Clear the area: Depending on the size and location of the repair, it might be helpful to clear the work area. This includes moving furniture to prevent accidental damage from adhesive drips or other materials. For smaller repairs, this may not be necessary, but an unobstructed workspace generally makes the task easier.
● Prep the wall: Regardless of the specific issue, whether an air bubble or a foreign object, a clean wallpaper surface ensures the proper adhesion of repair materials. Any dust or dirt can complicate the repair process, so using a damp cloth is essential to wipe the area where the repair will occur. The most complete information on cleaning wallpaper is here: How to clean wallpaper
● Safety precautions: When working with strong adhesives or solvents during wallpaper repairs, consider wearing gloves to avoid direct skin contact and ensure proper ventilation in confined spaces. These steps may contribute to a safer and more comfortable repair experience.
Now that you know the slight variations that you have to remember in all the repair processes and the preparatory steps, you’re ready to follow the simple steps on how to fix wallpaper seams, peeling wallpaper, air bubbles, and remove foreign objects. Let’s start with fixing wallpaper seams.
How to repair wallpaper seams
Wallpaper seams can start to lift for various reasons, such as improper installation, fluctuating room temperature, or aging of the wallpaper adhesive. This issue can disrupt your wall's aesthetic. However, fixing wallpaper seams can be a straightforward task with the right tools and guidance. So, here they are:
Necessary tools
● Wallpaper seam roller
● Wallpaper adhesive or glue (Standard for most wallpapers; vinyl-specific or heavy-duty clear for Vinyl and Fiberglass types)
● Small brush or putty knife
● Clean damp cloth
Step-by-step guide
1. Start by applying a thin layer of wallpaper adhesive beneath the lifted seam. Use a small brush or putty knife for precise application.
2. Next, gently press the seam back down. Be careful to align it correctly with the surrounding wallpaper and avoid causing further damage.
3. Once it is in place, use a wallpaper seam roller to secure it. Roll over the area to bond the adhesive and ensure a secure attachment.
4. There may be some excess adhesive that seeped out during the repair process. Wipe this away using a clean, damp cloth for a neat finish.
How to fix peeling wallpaper
Peeling wallpaper can occur due to changes in temperature, humidity, or simply over time as the adhesive wears out. With the right approach and a bit of patience, you can have your walls looking as good as new. Below, we guide you through this process.
Necessary tools
● Wallpaper adhesive or glue (Standard for most wallpapers; vinyl-specific or heavy-duty clear for Vinyl and Fiberglass types)
● Small brush or putty knife
● Smoothing tool or wallpaper smoother
● Clean damp cloth
Step-by-step guide
1. Start by carefully lifting the peeling section of the wallpaper. Be gentle to avoid causing any tears.
2. Apply the wallpaper adhesive underneath the lifted portion using a small brush or putty knife. Ensure you spread the adhesive evenly for optimal adherence.
3. Next, gently press the wallpaper back onto the wall. It is crucial to do this gently to avoid damage.
4. Use a smoothing tool or wallpaper smoother to press down on the wallpaper. This helps to remove any air bubbles and ensures an even application.
5. If there is any excess glue seeping out, use a clean damp cloth to wipe it off, leaving a neat finish gently.
How to repair air bubbles in wallpaper
Air bubbles in your wallpaper can be caused by trapped air during installation or from wallpaper adhesive failing over time. They can create noticeable blemishes, but the good news is that they're typically easy to fix. Here are the tools you need and steps to follow to banish those bothersome bubbles:
Necessary tools
● Pin or small needle
● Wallpaper adhesive or glue (Standard for most wallpapers; vinyl-specific or heavy-duty clear for Vinyl and Fiberglass types)
● Small brush or putty knife
● Wallpaper seam roller
● Clean damp cloth
Step-by-step guide
1. Start by puncturing the air bubble using a pin or small needle. The goal is to create a small vent that allows the trapped air to escape without damaging the wallpaper excessively.
2. Once the bubble is deflated, apply a small amount of wallpaper adhesive under the affected area. Use a small brush or putty knife for this task.
3. After applying the adhesive, carefully smooth out the wallpaper, working outwards from the center of the deflated bubble. This step ensures that no air is trapped again.
4. Use a wallpaper seam roller to bond the wallpaper to the wall securely. The roller helps ensure an even and secure attachment of the wallpaper to the wall.
5. Lastly, if there's any excess adhesive that seeped out during the repair process, wipe it off using a clean damp cloth. This leaves your wallpaper with a neat finish.
How to remove foreign objects from wallpaper
Foreign objects can get stuck on your wallpaper during installation or can be accidentally pressed into the surface over time. With care and the right approach, this issue can be resolved. Let's go through the necessary tools and steps:
Necessary tools
● Tweezers
● Soft brush or cloth
● Wallpaper adhesive or glue (Standard for most wallpapers; vinyl-specific or heavy-duty clear for Vinyl and Fiberglass types)
● Small brush or putty knife (if necessary)
● Clean damp cloth
Step-by-step guide
1. First, try to remove the foreign object using tweezers gently. Take care to avoid damaging the wallpaper's surface if the object is adhered to it.
2. After the object has been removed, use a soft brush or cloth to clean the affected area. This helps to remove any residual debris.
3. If the wallpaper has been lifted or damaged during the process, apply a small amount of wallpaper adhesive under the lifted area. You can use a small brush or putty knife for precise application.
4. Smooth the wallpaper back into place carefully, ensuring it aligns correctly with the surrounding area.
5. Finally, if there's any excess adhesive that seeped out during the repair process, wipe it off using a clean damp cloth. This ensures a neat finish.
Post-repair care for wallpaper repairs
After repairing the wallpaper seams, peeling parts, air bubbles, or removing foreign objects— make sure to observe post-repair care tips to ensure your fixes last long and your wallpaper continues to look its best. Here are some simple but effective things you can do:
● Allow repaired wallpaper to dry thoroughly: Give the adhesive ample time to dry completely before touching or adjusting the wallpaper.
● Avoid immediate cleaning: Resist the urge to clean the newly repaired wallpaper for at least a week to ensure the adhesive has fully set.
● Dust regularly: Regular light dusting prevents dirt build-up, which could lead to adhesive issues and reduce the likelihood of other wallpaper problems.
● Regularly inspect your wallpaper: Regular checks can help catch potential problems early before they become bigger issues, allowing for minor repairs and adjustments as necessary.
● Attend to any damage promptly: If you notice any new issues, such as peeling or bubbles, address them as soon as possible to prevent further damage and preserve the longevity of your wallpaper.
Common mistakes to avoid when fixing wallpaper problems
In the course of repairing your wallpaper, certain missteps could make the problem worse or even cause new ones. Here are some common errors to avoid:
● Overusing adhesive: One of the most frequent mistakes in wallpaper repair is the overuse of adhesive when fixing seams. It might be tempting to think that more glue would create a stronger bond, but this is often counterproductive. Excessive adhesive can create a mess and could even result in further damage to the wallpaper. Use adhesive sparingly and judiciously.
● Tugging on peeling wallpaper: When you see wallpaper peeling, your instinct might be to pull on the loose part. However, this can lead to tearing or extending the peeling area. It's better to gently lift the peeling section and apply the appropriate adhesive.
● Ignoring room conditions: The environment is crucial in wallpaper adhesion. Trying to fix wallpaper in a room with high humidity levels or temperature extremes can affect the effectiveness of the adhesive, causing it to either not stick properly or dry too quickly.
● Rushing the process: Patience is key when repairing wallpaper. People often rush through the process, not giving enough time for the adhesive to set properly before smoothing out the wallpaper or reapplying paint. This can lead to subpar repairs that may peel or bubble up over time.
If you're dealing with more significant damage or issues that are beyond repair, you might need to consider removing the wallpaper entirely. For guidance on this, check out our complete guide on how to remove wallpaper: How to remove wallpaper
Final insights on wallpaper types
Generally, non-woven wallpapers are easy to handle, making them excellent for repairs, while self-adhesive wallpapers make adjustments much simpler. Their ease of application reduces the potential for issues like air bubbles or misaligned seams, and if issues do arise, the wallpaper can easily be repositioned or replaced entirely more than other wallpaper types.
Photowall offers a range of high-quality non-woven and peel-and-stick wallpapers, providing optimal ease of handling during repair work. The durability of their non-woven standard and premium wallpapers, coupled with the paste-the-wall technique, simplifies the repair process. Moreover, the scrape-resistant attribute of their premium wallpaper further minimizes potential repair-induced damage.
As we conclude this comprehensive guide, remember that with the right knowledge, tools, and attention to detail, you can tackle wallpaper issues effectively and keep your walls looking great for years to come.