Putting wallpaper on textured walls can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and techniques, it is very doable. The key considerations are properly preparing the textured wall surface, using appropriate adhesives, and selecting the right wallpaper materials. With some effort and care, you can successfully apply wallpaper to textured walls for a stylish, customized look.
Assessing the Wall Texture
The first step is to closely examine the existing wall texture. There are several main types of textured wall finishes:
Knockdown Texture
This is a very common texture created by knocking down the wet plaster after application. It has a rounded, rolling texture profile. Knockdown textures can range from light orange-peel to very heavy pronounced textures.
Skip Trowel Texture
Skip trowel textures have the appearance of being applied by coarse bristled brush in sweeping motions. This leaves behind a very irregular texture with peaks and valleys.
Stomp Texture
Stomp or sponge textures are applied by pressing a wet sponge or brush against the wall surface. This creates a pitted, irregular crater-like texture.
Popcorn Ceiling Texture
Popcorn texture is applied to ceilings with a special spray gun that creates small clumps of material. It has a bumpy cottage cheese appearance.
The depth, irregularity, and porosity of the texture will determine what needs to be done to prepare it for wallpaper. The rougher and more irregular the texture, the more prep will be required.
Sanding Down High Points
For heavier knockdown, skip trowel, and stomp textures, the highest points and ridges will need to be sanded down. This ensures the wallpaper can lie flat against the surface.
Use a sanding sponge or electric drywall sander with 80-100 grit sandpaper. Sand just enough to smooth down the peaks without removing the entire texture. Work in small sections and be sure to clean up dust before priming.
Filling Low Areas
Low spots in rough textures also need to be filled so they don’t show through the wallpaper. Use a vinyl spackling compound and a wide drywall knife to fill any holes, gaps, or depressions in the texture.
Allow the patching compound to dry fully and sand smooth before priming. The wall should be as smooth and flat as possible without eliminating the overall texture.
Priming Over Texture
Priming is a crucial step before wallpapering over texture. A quality high-bond primer designed for wallpaper will seal the surface and create a uniform foundation. Priming also allows you to see if any imperfections need further patching.
Apply a full coat of primer over the entire surface, allowing it to dry completely before wallpapering. Tinted primer in a color similar to the wallpaper background will provide added coverage.
Using Adhesive Made for Texture
Choosing the right adhesive is key for getting wallpaper to adhere properly on texture. Heavy duty clear wallpaper adhesives formulated especially for textured surfaces provide superior adhesion.
These adhesives contain additives to increase tackiness and cling. They are designed to penetrate into the texture for grip while remaining somewhat flexible to move with the wall surface. Apply an even coat according to manufacturer directions.
Choosing Durable Wallpaper Materials
The wallpaper itself should be durable and flexible to handle the texture without damage. Vinyl-coated papers provide both strength and flexibility. Avoid weaker papers like grasscloth that could tear over an uneven surface.
Vinyl wallpapers are also scrubbable and peelable, making future removal easier. Foil and flocked papers should also adhere well provided the proper adhesives are used. Avoid delicate antique papers and delicate prints.
Working Methodically and Carefully
Meticulous, careful application technique is vital when wallpapering over texture. Work slowly in manageable sections. Use a plastic smoother to adhere the paper but take care not to press too hard over bumps in the texture.
Overlap seams slightly and double cut with a sharp razor for tight seals. Use vinyl trims at edges and corners for increased durability. Remove air bubbles immediately but avoid aggressive scraping that could damage the paper.
Results Worth the Effort
With concerted effort and preparation, you can achieve successful wallpaper application on textured walls. The finished look provides added visual interest and makes the texture an accent rather than a deterrent. Wallpaper allows you to customize the room with color, pattern and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wallpapering Textured Walls
Can you wallpaper over sand texture?
Yes, sand textures like light skip trowel can be wallpapered over if properly primed first. The grittiness helps the adhesive grip. Heavily trowelled peaks may need sanding.
What adhesive is best for wallpaper on texture?
Heavy duty clear adhesives designed specifically for textured walls provide the best adhesion. They penetrate into the texture and flex with the surface.
Can wallpaper be applied to popcorn ceilings?
While challenging, it is possible to wallpaper popcorn ceilings with a rigid vinyl laminate wallpaper and heavy duty adhesive. The surface must be sealed and high points may need sanding down.
Should wallpaper seams be overlapped on texture?
Overlapping seams slightly helps prevent lifted edges on textured surfaces. Use double razor cutting for the best seam adherence. Avoid butting edges.
Can you wallpaper over Venetian plaster texture?
Yes, Venetian plaster finishes can be wallpapered but any glossy areas need to be dulled first for proper adhesion. A pigmented wallpaper primer also provides a uniform base.
What wallpapers work best on textured walls?
Vinyl, foil, or laminate wallpapers provide the best adherence on heavily textured surfaces. Avoid delicate papers than could tear. Durable washable papers are best for high-wear areas.
Should textured walls be skim coated before wallpapering?
Skim coating is an option for smoothing heavily textured walls, but it requires specialty skills. Often sanding high points and priming is sufficient before wallpapering.
How do you prepare stucco walls for wallpaper?
Stucco surfaces need to be sealed with masonry primer first. Apply a skim coat if needed to level the surface. Then prime again before applying wallpaper.
Can wallpaper stick to concrete?
Wallpaper can be applied directly to clean, primed concrete provided an adhesive designed for high-bondage to difficult surfaces is used. The concrete must be free of loose material and efflorescence.
Should wallpaper seams be matched up on textures?
There is no need to intricately match up wallpaper seams on heavy textures. In fact, slightly overlapping and double cutting seams is better to prevent lifted edges.
Achieving a Stylish Finish
Wallpapering over textured walls allows you to integrate beautiful colors, patterns, and prints into rooms with difficult wall surfaces. With proper preparation and application, you can attain a designer-quality finish. Wallpaper also provides an alternative to simply painting over unattractive textures.
The key is taking the time to ready the textured surface prior to wallpapering. Be sure to fill any voids, sand down high points, apply suitable primer, and use heavy duty adhesives made for texture. Then carefully apply the wallpaper itself, working slowly and methodically. With concerted effort, you can achieve stunning results.
Wallpaper provides limitless options for customizing a space. Transform plain white stucco walls with vivid damask prints or tropical scenery. Turn rough skip trowel walls into the backdrop for elegant flocked papers with metallic accents. The effect of wallpaper on textured walls is uniquely beautiful and interesting to the eye.
If you have the patience and dedication, you can have wallpaper on your textured surfaces that enhances rather than detracts from the décor. With some perseverance and the right techniques, you can attain the textured wallpaper look you desire. Do not be deterred by difficult wall surfaces. Instead, see them as an opportunity to create stylish, one-of-a-kind spaces.
Conclusion
In summary, wallpaper can be applied successfully to textured wall surfaces with careful preparation and installation. While it presents challenges, textured walls can be made smooth, uniform, and ready for wallpaper with proper filling, sanding, and priming. Using heavy-duty adhesives designed specifically for textures along with durable wallpaper materials allows the wallpaper to adhere properly. With concerted effort and meticulous technique, you can achieve a designer-quality wallpaper installation over textured walls that enhances your unique home decor. Do not shy away from the challenge – embrace the chance to customize difficult wall surfaces for showstopping style.