Wallpaper Installation Guide

Installing wallpaper is one of the best ways to transform an interior, adding texture, depth, and character that paint simply cannot achieve. While modern wallpapers are easier to install than ever before, achieving a flawless finish requires proper preparation, the right materials, and careful attention to detail.

This guide walks you through the professional wallpaper installation process used by experienced installers.

Before You Begin

Successful wallpaper installation starts long before the first strip is hung.

Before installing wallpaper, make sure you have:

• Smooth, properly prepared walls
• Wallpaper primer, such as Roman RX-35
• The correct wallpaper adhesive
• Sharp utility knife
• Metal straight edge
• Wallpaper smoothing tool
• Seam roller, if recommended
• Measuring tape
• Level or laser level
• Clean microfiber cloths
• Sponge and clean water

A clean workspace and proper preparation are just as important as the wallpaper itself.

Should You Install Wallpaper Yourself?

Modern non-woven wallpapers are easier to install than older paper wallpapers, making them suitable for experienced DIY homeowners.

However, professional installation is highly recommended for:

• Large rooms
• High ceilings
• Luxury wallcoverings
• Natural materials
• Commercial projects
• Feature walls with expensive wallpaper

Experienced installers have the tools and expertise to achieve perfectly aligned seams, accurate pattern matching, and a flawless finish.

Common Installation Mistakes

Avoid these common problems:

• Installing over textured walls
• Skipping primer
• Using the wrong adhesive
• Not checking batch numbers
• Starting without a plumb line
• Stretching the wallpaper
• Cutting with dull blades
• Ignoring pattern repeat
• Allowing adhesive to dry on the surface

Most wallpaper installation issues can be avoided with proper preparation and careful planning.

Professional Recommendation

Wallpaper is a long-term investment in your home. Taking the time to prepare the walls properly, using high-quality primer and adhesive, and following professional installation techniques will ensure your wallpaper looks beautiful for many years.

Whether you're installing a subtle linen texture, a decorative plaster-inspired wallcovering, or a premium embossed vinyl wallpaper, proper installation is the key to achieving a luxurious, seamless result.

Step 1 – Prepare the Walls

The quality of the finished installation depends largely on the condition of the wall.

Professional installers always:

• Remove old wallpaper
• Repair cracks, dents, and nail holes
• Skim coat textured walls when necessary
• Sand the surface smooth
• Remove dust
• Apply a dedicated wallpaper primer

Never install wallpaper directly over damaged drywall, loose paint, or dirty surfaces.

Step 2 – Inspect Every Roll

Before opening multiple rolls, verify:

• Pattern number
• Color
• Batch/run number
• Roll dimensions
• Material condition

All wallpaper used on the same wall should come from the same production batch whenever possible to ensure consistent color and texture.

Inspect every roll for visible defects before cutting or applying adhesive.

Step 3 – Plan the Layout

Professional installers never begin in a random corner.

Before hanging wallpaper:

• Determine the starting point
• Plan seam locations
• Check pattern direction
• Avoid placing narrow strips in highly visible corners
• Balance the layout around focal points such as fireplaces, beds, or large windows

Taking a few extra minutes to plan the layout results in a much more symmetrical and professional appearance.

Step 4 – Cut the Wallpaper

Measure each wall height carefully.

Cut each strip slightly longer than required, leaving approximately 2–3 inches / 50–75 mm of extra material at both the top and bottom for trimming.

If the wallpaper has a pattern repeat, align the design before cutting each additional strip.

Step 5 – Apply Adhesive

Follow the wallpaper manufacturer's recommendations.

For most non-woven wallpaper with hot embossed vinyl, adhesive is applied directly to the wall rather than the back of the wallpaper.

Use a high-quality roller to apply an even coat of adhesive. Avoid excessive adhesive, especially near seams.

For our wallpaper collections, we recommend using:

• Roman PRO-838 Heavy Duty Clear
• Roman PRO-880 Ultra Clear Strippable

These professional-grade adhesives provide excellent slip, strong adhesion, and long-term durability.

Step 6 – Install the First Panel

The first strip determines the alignment of the entire installation.

Use a laser level or plumb line to ensure the first panel is perfectly vertical.

Even a slight deviation on the first strip can become noticeable across the entire wall.

Step 7 – Smooth the Wallpaper

Using a wallpaper smoothing tool, work from the center toward the edges.

This removes:

• Air bubbles
• Excess adhesive
• Wrinkles

Apply even pressure without overstretching the wallpaper.

Step 8 – Match the Pattern

For patterned wallpapers, carefully align each strip with the previous one.

Never force the material into alignment.

Proper pattern matching should occur naturally if the wallpaper has been measured and cut correctly.

Step 9 – Trim Excess Material

Using a sharp utility knife and a metal straight edge, trim the wallpaper at:

• Ceiling
• Baseboards
• Windows
• Doors
• Cabinets
• Built-ins

Replace blades frequently to ensure clean cuts and prevent tearing.

Step 10 – Clean the Surface

Immediately remove any adhesive residue using a clean sponge and fresh water.

Do not allow adhesive to dry on the wallpaper surface.

After installation, inspect every seam and wipe the wall one final time.

After Installation

Allow the wallpaper to dry naturally.

For the best results:

• Keep room temperature between 65–75°F / 18–24°C
• Avoid excessive airflow from fans or HVAC vents during the first 24–48 hours
• Maintain normal indoor humidity
• Do not wash the wallpaper until the adhesive has fully cured