Wallpaper professionals near you

Before hiring a wallpapering professional, be sure to ask these questions:

• Can I see a portfolio of your previous wallpapering work?

• What kind of wall preparation is included in your estimate, such as patching holes or removing old wallpaper?

• Do you supply the wallpaper and adhesive, or should I purchase them separately?

• How long do you estimate the project will take to complete?

• What does your quote include, and what is your payment schedule?

• Are you insured, and do you have any necessary licensing for this type of work?

• How do you handle cleanup, and do you offer a guarantee on your work?

Wallpapering can be challenging for beginners because it requires patience and precision, especially when matching patterns. Proper wall preparation is key to avoiding bubbles and achieving a smooth finish. If you’re new to it, consider starting with a small accent wall to build your confidence. Otherwise, you can consider hiring an experienced pro near you.

Skipping wall prep is the biggest mistake, leading to peeling and bubbling. Properly cleaning and priming your walls is essential for a smooth, long-lasting finish. Other common errors include misaligning patterns and using too much or too little amount of paste. Experienced pros will typically know how to avoid these mistakes and ensure a proper application.

The national wallpaper removal cost averages $360-$560, which will typically include multiple rooms. Pros often charge by the square foot to remove egregious wallpaper that is long past its prime. Wallpaper removal cost may range anywhere from 60 cents to $1.50 or more per square foot. A pro may estimate removal costs ranging between $160 and $300 for a medium-sized room. Costs can vary due to ceiling height, and some pros add a skim coat to make repainting or re-papering smoother. Here are some examples of average costs to remove wallpaper:

• Foyer: 36-120 square feet, $21.60-$180.

• Powder room: 16-36 square feet, $9.60-$54.

• Living or dining room: 120-252 square feet, $72-$378.

• Family room: 192-384 square feet, $115.20-$576.

• Bedroom: 100-224 square feet, $60-$336.

• Guest bath: 45-84 square feet, $27-$126.

• Master bedroom: 168-384 square feet, $100.80-$576.

• Master bath: 54-160 square feet, $32.40-$240.

Once the old wallpaper is gone, the average cost to install new wallpaper is $240-$350.

There are several proven methods for wallpaper removal; each has its pros and cons, but some are definitely easier. Peeling is usually the least painful, followed by soaking and stripping. Dry-stripping is the next most time-consuming, and steaming the most work. The average wallpaper removal job costs between $360 and $560. The method of removal can affect the cost, as steaming takes longer than peeling and will therefore typically cost more. Peeling wallpaper off is usually the quickest method. To see if your wallpaper can be peeled off, try gently edging up a corner and carefully peeling the paper off the wall in strips. If you can’t peel, then you’ll have to score and strip it, either by dry-stripping or by soaking and then stripping. Plaster walls can withstand moisture and can stand up to soaking and stripping, but drywall should not be soaked. For very stubborn wallpaper, steaming may be necessary, which is time-consuming but effective. If you prefer not to attempt these methods yourself, wallpaper removal pros have the proper tools and experience to quickly take down wallpaper and also repair any damage to your walls.

Your wallpaper typically needs very little maintenance to stay looking fresh. You can gently wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap, but avoid abrasive cleaners. Occasionally check for any peeling seams or corners, which can be re-adhered with a small amount of wallpaper paste. Your wallpapering pro should be able to offer guidance for cleaning and maintenance.

Wallpapering a single accent wall is a great way to create a focal point without committing to the cost of papering a full room. Covering all four walls can deliver a more immersive look if your budget allows. Ultimately, the choice depends on the style you want to achieve. An experienced pro can typically help you consider your options to find the best fit.

When wallpapering, pros typically take the following steps:

• Preparing the wall: The surface is cleaned, repaired if needed, and sometimes primed so the wallpaper adheres properly.

• Measuring and cutting: Wallpaper is measured and cut into strips, making sure patterns line up from one strip to the next.

• Applying adhesive: Depending on the wallpaper type, a pro will either apply adhesive to the wall or to the back of the wallpaper.

• Hanging the wallpaper: Each strip is carefully positioned on the wall and aligned with the previous strip to keep the pattern consistent.

• Smooth and trim: They'll smooth out any bubbles and wrinkles and trim excess wallpaper along the ceiling, baseboards, and corners.

There are several factors that might impact the cost of this project, including:

• Project size: Larger areas require more materials and time, which can increase the overall price.

• Wall condition: If your walls have old wallpaper that needs to be removed, or surfaces that require patching, sanding, and priming, this will add labor costs.

• Wallpaper type: Some wallpapers, like delicate grasscloth or intricate murals, are more expensive and may require more skill and time to hang correctly, which can impact the labor price.

• Room complexity: A room with high ceilings, stairwells, or lots of obstacles like windows and doors is more time-consuming to paper than a simple, rectangular room.

• Project details: Tasks like creating a single accent wall, papering a ceiling, or perfectly matching complex patterns can influence the final cost.