All Your Questions About Removable Wallpaper, Answered
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Sick of painting? Craving a design change without the permanent commitment? Then you should consider removable wallpaper, an always-trending design choice that can completely transform the look of a room in just a few short hours. There are so many removable self-adhesive wallpaper options available today in a variety of shades, colors, and patterns, but before you shop for your favorite look, it’s also important to know the facts about removable wallpaper so you can make the best choice. Drew and Jonathan know a thing or two when it comes to wallpaper—after all, they have their very own wallpaper collections, so they take this very seriously! That’s why we’re here to answer all your questions, from how long removable wallpaper lasts to how to apply it correctly (hint: no contractor needed!), how you can make sure it won’t damage your drywall, and what makes removable wallpaper stand up in the first place.
Drew and Jonathan love the beauty and convenience of peel-and-stick wallpaper. Their self-adhesive Scott Living wallpaper collection features a wide variety of styles, like florals, geometric shapes, textured solids, woods, and more. Removable wallpaper isn’t just a pretty way to personalize a space—it’s also a functional choice. Self-adhesive wallpaper is perfect for renters who don’t want to cause permanent change to their apartment, adds a layer of protection to the walls, and some options can even improve the acoustics of a room. Need more convincing? Let’s dive into your most pressing peel-and-stick wallpaper questions. (Oh, and we also have a tutorial on how to hang removable wallpaper when you’re ready.)
How long does removable wallpaper last?
This depends on several factors, including the brand of self-adhesive wallpaper, how it’s applied, and how it’s maintained. If applied correctly, high-quality removable wallpaper can last for a few years before it starts to peel at the edges. For the best results, consult the manufacturer’s instructions and read about the backing materials. Materials used can vary by brand, and may impact what room and wall type certain removable wallpaper can be applied to. It’s also always a good idea to read customer reviews before buying.
Does removable wallpaper damage drywall?
If applied and removed correctly, no, removable wallpaper will not damage drywall. The adhesive used with today’s peel-and-stick wallpaper has evolved, and in most cases, will not damage your walls as long as it’s removed correctly and gently. No stress!
Does removable wallpaper really stay up?
Yes, removable wallpaper can absolutely stay up for several years, as long as it is installed properly and maintained correctly. However, it’s important to make sure the surface of a wall is clean and flat before applying. This prep work impacts how long peel-and-stick wallpaper will stay up, in addition to the brand of removable wallpaper and its adhesive type.
How do I apply removable wallpaper?
Start with a felt-edge squeegee, a straight pin, and a close friend or family member who can help you get the job done. From there, follow Drew and Jonathan’s stress-free wallpaper installation tutorial to buy, prep, install, and eventually remove the wallpaper, when the time comes. For example, when installing, you’ll want to be careful and take time trimming the areas around light-switch covers for a clean application. Also, when buying, it’s important to buy extra wallpaper for pattern matching and trimming the first time around. Digital printing varies, so a second order of the same pattern might look different than the first.
Before purchasing, also consider the existing aesthetic of your space. Assess the walls surrounding the space, and how they pull other elements and decor together. You want to make sure your room is telling a cohesive design story before committing to a wallpaper design. Look at the furniture and floors, and use all this information to shop for complementary patterns and colors. If your goal is to make a bold statement, consider that as well, and instead lean into contrast.
Where should I use removable wallpaper?
One perk about removable wallpaper is its versatility. From rental apartments to spaces like a children’s room, home office, or other shared space that might undergo frequent design changes, peel-and-stick wallpaper is a fabulous way to make a personal style statement without the permanency of a paint brush. When applied correctly and with a specific style in mind, self-adhesive wallpaper is one of the easiest ways to make a big impact in any space.
Ready to shop? (Peel and) stick to the following ideas!