Even with the best preparation, a little imperfection can pop up when you're hanging wallpaper. But don't panic! A perfect finish is often just a few simple fixes away. As your trusted wallpaper partner, we want to empower you with the knowledge and tools to handle any hiccup.
This guide will walk you through the most common wallpaper problems and provide simple, expert solutions to get your walls looking flawless.
Problem 1: The Annoying Air Bubble or Wrinkle
An air bubble can appear for a few reasons—it might be trapped air from the installation process, or a wrinkle that wasn’t smoothed out properly. While frustrating, they’re surprisingly easy to fix.
The Fix: You’ll need a syringe (a small plastic one from a craft store or pharmacy works perfectly) and a small amount of wallpaper adhesive.
Fill the syringe with a small amount of adhesive.
Carefully insert the syringe into the center of the bubble.
Inject a small amount of adhesive into the bubble.
Using a clean, dry wallpaper smoother or cloth, gently press the bubble from the outside toward the entry point of the syringe, pushing out any excess air and adhesive.
Wipe off any extra adhesive with a damp sponge.
For larger bubbles, a razor blade or craft knife can be used to make a small, discreet slit. Inject the adhesive, smooth it down, and press the seam of the cut back together. The goal is to make the slit as invisible as possible!
Problem 2: The Peeling Seam
A peeling seam can make your otherwise perfect wall look sloppy. This usually happens when not enough adhesive was applied to the very edge of the paper, or the wall wasn't properly prepped.
The Fix: You’ll need a small art brush and a seam roller (a handy tool that looks like a miniature paint roller).
Use the small brush to apply a thin, even line of wallpaper seam adhesive directly under the peeling edge.
Gently press the seam back down against the wall.
Take your seam roller and apply firm, even pressure along the length of the seam. This will ensure full contact and press out any excess adhesive.
Immediately wipe away any squeezed-out adhesive with a clean, damp cloth.
Problem 3: The Unfortunate Tear or Rip
Accidents happen. Whether it’s from moving furniture or a little one getting too curious, a small tear doesn't have to ruin your day.
The Fix: You'll need a leftover piece of the original wallpaper, a ruler, and a sharp craft knife.
Take a piece of your leftover wallpaper that is slightly larger than the tear.
Carefully match the pattern on the leftover piece with the pattern on the wall, making sure it aligns perfectly.
Place a ruler over the new piece and, using a sharp craft knife, cut out a patch that fits the torn area. We recommend cutting a slightly irregular shape, as it can make the patch less noticeable than a perfect square.
Apply a thin layer of adhesive to the back of your new patch.
Carefully place the patch over the torn area, aligning the pattern precisely.
Smooth the patch down with a dry cloth, pressing firmly to ensure good contact.
Once dry, the patch should blend almost seamlessly into the rest of the wall.
Problem 4: Corners That Just Won't Stick
A corner is a tricky spot for wallpaper, as the edge wants to pull away from the wall. This can be caused by a few factors, including uneven walls or a lack of adhesive on the very edge.
The Fix: This is a perfect job for a specialized seam adhesive or a high-tack adhesive.
Gently pull the edge away from the wall.
Using a small brush, apply a generous amount of adhesive to the back of the wallpaper and to the wall itself.
Press the paper back into the corner, using your fingers or a smoother to press it firmly into the crease.
Hold the paper in place for a few moments to allow the adhesive to set slightly. A seam roller can be very helpful here.
Wipe away any extra adhesive with a damp sponge.
Recommended Products for an Easy Install
For a seamless installation from start to finish, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. We recommend a few products to make the process as easy as possible:
For Traditional Wallpaper: We recommend using a high-quality roller for even application and a professional-grade adhesive like Roman 880 for a strong, long-lasting bond.
For Peel & Stick Wallpaper: While our peel and stick is self-adhesive, a few spritzes of EZ Hang Spray can help you reposition panels perfectly for a flawless, bubble-free install.
For All Wallpaper Types: A smoother is essential for working out bubbles and wrinkles, and a utility knife ensures clean, precise cuts around outlets and edges.
Final Thoughts: You've Got This!
Wallpaper is a transformative design element, and these minor issues are just a normal part of the process. With a few simple tools and a little patience, you can tackle any problem and achieve a beautiful, professional-looking result. Remember, our customer service team is always here to help if you run into any other questions. Happy decorating!
