There are different types of wallpaper and a commonly asked question is “What glue should I use for this wallpaper?”
This is what this guide on wallpaper adhesives will help you with. We’ll discuss the various types available, share expert application tips, and even guide you through creating your own DIY paste.
Types of Wallpaper Adhesives
When you’re choosing a wallpaper adhesive, it’s important to consider the type of wallpaper you’re using.
Here, we’ll dig into some of the most common types of wallpaper adhesives to help you decide.
Remember to first check if the wallpaper manufacturer recommends a particular type of adhesive. Always follow the manufacturer’s adhesive recommendations when available.
Pre-mixed Wallpaper Adhesive: This is a convenient option, as it comes ready to use and eliminates the need for mixing. It’s suitable for most wallpapers, including vinyl and paper-backed types.
Powdered Wallpaper Adhesive: This option requires mixing with water before use, allowing you to control the consistency and strength. Opt for this paste if you’re experienced with wallpapering, as it can be trickier to prepare.
Heavy Duty Wallpaper Adhesive: If you’re hanging heavyweight wallpapers, this is the adhesive to choose. It can handle the weight of textured or embossed wallpapers and ensures they stay firmly in place.
All-purpose, universal Adhesive: Designed for versatility, suitable for various types of wallpapers to different wall surfaces.
These types of adhesives can be strippable or create a permanent bond depending on the product. They can be clear or clay formulated and they usually also contain biocides to prevent mold and mildew.
Some are also slightly tinted to show where you’ve applied paste and if you’ve missed a spot. It dries clear.
What to Think About When Choosing an Adhesive for Wallpaper
When choosing the adhesive for your wallpaper there are some things you need to have in mind.
First and foremost, assess the condition of the wall surface you intend to apply the wallpaper to.
Each surface may require a different adhesive, so always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for compatibility.
If the walls have been skim-coated or large areas have been spackled with joint compound you’ll usually need to size them, otherwise, the paste will be absorbed by the joint compound leading to peeling or loose wallpaper.
Sizing walls is simply applying a thin coat of wallpaper paste to the walls to saturate the joint compound, it also makes it easier to slide each strip of paper on the wall when you’re hanging wallpaper later on.
Another factor to take into account is the weight and material of the wallpaper. Heavier and textured materials will need a stronger adhesive to hold the paper securely.
Rooms where wallpaper may need frequent replacement, like children’s rooms, may benefit from using adhesives that are strippable and easy to remove.
Recommended Wallpaper Adhesives
Below are some known products that are recommended by both professionals and DIYers.
Roman PRO-880 Ultra Clear Adhesive
Roman PRO-880 is North America’s best-selling wallpaper adhesive. It’s an adhesive that is used for hanging most types of wallpaper such as vinyl, non-woven, grasscloth, and more.
It’s a clear, non-staining adhesive that is easily cleaned up with water.
Schöner Wohnen
High Strength wallpaper adhesive in powder form which you mix yourself. For Non-Woven Wallpaper.
Zinsser SureGrip Heavy Duty Wallcovering Adhesive
Zinsser SureGrip Wallcovering Adhesive is suitable for a range of wallpapers, from lightweight to heavyweight vinyl. Clear-drying and non-staining. This adhesive is ideal for both professional applications and rigorous DIY projects.
Remember to always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific wallpaper you are working with, as certain materials may require specialized adhesives.
How To Make Homemade Adhesive
Making wallpaper paste at home is a simple process that allows you to customize the adhesive to your needs. You’ll need some basic ingredients and follow a few easy steps.
A popular homemade wallpaper paste recipe consists of wheat flour, sugar, and water. To make this adhesive:
- Combine 1,5 cups of flour and 1 cup of sugar in a bowl.
- Add 1 cup of water and beat out any lumps.
- Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and add 2 cups of water.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a paste-like consistency.
- Let the mixture cool before using it on your wallpaper.
The benefits of homemade paste include cost-effectiveness, eco-friendliness, and ease of use. It’s a cheaper alternative to commercial wallpaper adhesives, and it doesn’t contain harmful chemicals.
Also, making the paste yourself allows you to control the consistency and make adjustments as needed for your specific wallpaper.
There are some limitations to homemade adhesives though, such as a shorter shelf life and it may not have the same strength and durability as commercial products.
To store your homemade wallpaper paste, place it in an airtight container in a cool place.
It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you notice a foul smell or see mold growing, discard the paste and create a new batch.
You can add 1 tablespoon of alum to the mix to increase the shelf life. Alum also acts as a preservative and can help to prevent mold growth.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
As a professional painter, there are some common mistakes I see people do when hanging wallpaper themselves.
Improper Adhesive Selection: Choosing the wrong adhesive can cause issues such as peeling and curling.
Make sure you select an adhesive specifically designed for your type of wallpaper material. For instance, if you are using vinyl wallpaper, choose a vinyl-specific adhesive.
Insufficient Adhesive Application: Applying too little adhesive won’t provide a strong enough bond, which leads to loose or bubbling wallpaper.
To avoid this, remember to apply an even and adequate layer of adhesive onto the wallpaper.
Spread it evenly using a brush or a roller, ensuring proper coverage, especially around the edges.
Not Letting Adhesive Soak: Some wallpapers require the adhesive to soak in for a specific amount of time before installation.
Ignoring this step might cause the bonding process to be less effective. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended soak time.
Non-woven wallpaper is designed so it won’t shrink or expand, so no booking is needed for this type.
Overlapping Seams: Overlapping seams can cause ugly bulges and create a shoddy finish. Use a wallpaper smoother or a damp sponge to help press the seams together if the wallpaper you’re hanging needs to be overlapped.
Ignoring Wall Preparation: Proper surface preparation is important to ensure a smooth and professional-looking finish.
When you’ve finished hanging a wall then look for paste on the wallpaper and wipe it off with a damp sponge. Set a light source at the end of the wall so it’ll be easier to spot.
FAQs About Wallpaper Adhesives
Do you need special adhesive for paste-the-wall wallpaper?
Regular or homemade wallpaper adhesive shouldn’t be used for this type of wallpaper. Check the wallpaper adhesive’s label if it supports paste-the-wall wallpaper.
How long does it take for wallpaper adhesive to dry?
The drying time can vary based on the type of adhesive, the wallpaper material, and environmental conditions like humidity and temperature.
However, most adhesives set within a few hours, but it’s recommended to wait 24 hours for complete drying.
How do I choose the right adhesive for my wallpaper type?
Check the manufacturer’s recommendations on the wallpaper packaging. Consider factors like the weight of the wallpaper (heavy vs. light), its material (vinyl, paper, fabric), and the room’s conditions (humidity, temperature).
Some specialty wallpapers might require specific adhesives for optimal bonding.
Can I use the same adhesive for both wallpaper and borders?
While many general-purpose wallpaper adhesives can be used for both wallpapers and borders, there are specific border adhesives designed to provide a stronger bond at edges and corners.
If you’re hanging a decorative border it might be beneficial to use a border-specific adhesive to ensure it remains firmly in place.
How much adhesive do I need for my wallpapering project?
The amount of adhesive required depends on the size of the area you’re covering, the type of wallpaper, and the adhesive’s spread rate (usually indicated on its packaging).
As a general rule, a gallon of adhesive typically covers approximately 300 to 400 square feet.
However, it’s always a good idea to buy a little extra to account for any mistakes or touch-ups.
Conclusion
Alright, so we’ve just taken a deep dive into the world of wallpaper adhesives. From the nitty-gritty of different types to some cool DIY paste recipes and I hope you now know how to choose the right wallpaper adhesive for your project.
Just check the wallpaper rolls instructions for what paste you need and you’re good to go.