What to Do Before Installing Wallpaper? - A Complete Guide by Walloro

Installing wallpaper is one of the most transformative things you can do to a room. Whether you're using embossed wallpaper, peel and stick wallpaper, or traditional wall coverings, how well the wallpaper looks — and lasts — depends heavily on how well you prepare your walls beforehand.

So, what do you need to do before installing wallpaper?

This comprehensive guide from Walloro, your trusted source for premium wallpaper in the U.S., covers everything from wall cleaning and priming to repairs and moisture control. We’ll also highlight common mistakes to avoid and how Walloro wallpapers are designed for easier, longer-lasting applications.

Why Wall Preparation Matters

Before you even unroll your first wallpaper panel, your wall needs to be ready to hold onto it. Poor preparation can lead to:

• Air bubbles under the wallpaper

• Peeling or lifting at the seams

• Uneven finishes

• Reduced wallpaper lifespan

As top interior design blogs like Graham & Brown and Wallpaper Direct suggest, prepping your surface is one of the most important steps in the installation process.

At Walloro, we take it a step further by offering wallpapers specifically designed to adhere smoothly to prepped surfaces, making the process easier for professionals and DIYers alike.

Step 1: Clean the Wall Surface

Keyword: clean wall before wallpaper

Even if your walls “look” clean, they’re probably covered in dust, grease, or residue that can interfere with adhesion.

How to do it:

• Mix a mild detergent with warm water

• Use a sponge to wipe down the entire surface

• Rinse with clean water and allow to dry thoroughly

Avoid heavy chemicals or oil-based cleaners — these can leave a film that weakens adhesive.

Step 2: Repair Any Imperfections

Keyword: wall repair before wallpaper

Wallpaper will cling to everything — including flaws. So fill nail holes, cracks, and dents before hanging wallpaper.

How to do it:

• Use spackling paste or wall filler to smooth out holes or gaps

• Let it dry completely

• Sand it flat with fine-grit sandpaper

This ensures your wallpaper sits smoothly and looks professionally installed.

Step 3: Remove Old Wallpaper

If you have old wallpaper on the wall, don’t wallpaper over it. It can lead to a lumpy finish or cause your new wallpaper to peel prematurely.

Best practices:

• Use a wallpaper steamer or a stripping solution

• Scrape gently with a wallpaper scraper

• Clean the wall of any remaining adhesive residue

Tip from Wallpaper Direct: Always remove old wallpaper fully to ensure optimal adhesion.

Step 4: Sand Glossy Walls

Keyword: can wallpaper stick to glossy paint

Glossy paint finishes can cause wallpaper adhesive to slide or fail.

To fix this:

• Use a sanding sponge to gently dull the surface

• Wipe with a dry cloth to remove sanding dust

• You’ll notice your wall has a matte feel — that’s ideal

If sanding isn’t possible, a high-grip wallpaper primer can help.

Step 5: Prime the Wall

Keyword: wallpaper primer, wallpaper base

Primer helps wallpaper adhesive bond better, especially on porous or dark-colored walls. It also allows easier removal in the future.

Use a wallpaper-specific primer or acrylic-based primer like:

• Roman PRO-977 Ultra Prime

• Zinsser Shieldz

At Walloro, our wallpapers are compatible with most primers and adhesives, especially when prepping for embossed wallpaper or vinyl wallpaper.

Step 6: Check for Moisture or Mold

Keyword: can wallpaper go on damp walls

Moisture is the enemy of wallpaper. It can cause mold growth behind the wallpaper or weaken adhesive.

Check your wall:

• Use a moisture meter, or

• Tape a small plastic sheet to the wall for 24 hours. If condensation forms underneath, your wall has too much moisture.

Fix leaks or humidity problems before installing any wallpaper.

Step 7: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before you begin hanging wallpaper, make sure you have:

• Wallpaper adhesive (if not peel-and-stick)

• Smoothing brush or plastic smoother

• Utility knife or sharp scissors

• Measuring tape and spirit level

• Wallpaper seam roller

Walloro wallpapers are designed for user-friendly application, whether you’re using a peel and stick wallpaper or our non-woven wallpaper range.

Best Wallpaper Types for Smooth Application

Embossed Wallpaper

Great for covering small imperfections and adding texture. Walloro’s embossed wallpapers are designed to be both stylish and forgiving.

Vinyl Wallpaper

Perfect for high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Easy to clean and extra durable.

Non-Woven Wallpaper

Breathable, easy to apply, and simple to remove without damaging the wall underneath.

Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Ideal for renters or short-term projects. No mess, no fuss. Walloro offers exclusive peel-and-stick collections in designer finishes.

Why Choose Walloro?

When it comes to high-quality wallpaper, Walloro stands out for more than just great designs.

✔️ Premium Materials: Our wallpapers are crafted from durable vinyl and non-woven fabrics, ideal for long-term use.
✔️ Easy Application: Designed with user-friendly installation in mind, including better grip on primed and cleaned walls.
✔️ Wide Selection: From modern minimalist styles to classic damasks and geometric prints.
✔️ U.S.-Based Service: Shop online or visit our Texas showroom for personalized assistance.

📍 Visit us: 9722 Hwy 90 Alt, Suite 103, Sugar Land, TX 77478
📞 Call: (832) 944-7878
🛒 Browse: www.walloro.com