Are you looking for a practical way to give your entire house (or even just a particular space) a brand-new look? A fresh coat of paint may be the obvious and popular choice for getting this done, but it may not always be the best one. In some situations, wallpaper can be the better option.
Using wallpaper is considered a more traditional treatment option for walls. However, with the help of designers, TV shows, and social media, the paper-based surface covering is making a glamorous comeback.
There are several advantages that come with using wallpaper to decorate the interiors of your home. Here, a respected wallpaper supplier in Dubai shares some of the pros, cons, and tips on best practices when it comes to using high-quality wallpaper to add life to a space.
Pro: Wallpaper is made of durable material.
You may be surprised to learn that wallpaper is a durable material. On average, wallpaper can last for at least 15 years. If well cared for, it can last even longer.
Paint, on the other hand, can peel or chip over time. It is easy to paint over the damage, but only if you have leftover paint or if you are not using an unusual shade that is difficult to match. Otherwise, you may need to repaint a more extensive section of the wall to completely conceal the damage.
Covering the wall in wallpaper is an excellent choice for homeowners who are looking for a surface treatment that does not require a lot of maintenance. Wallpaper is also recommended for individuals who have no intention of renovating or changing the look for at least a decade or more.
Con: There are limitations to the locations where it is suitable.
Although modern wallpaper is comparatively more durable than vintage rolls, they are not recommended for use in spaces where the humidity levels are high. Kitchens and bathrooms are a few such examples. When you use wallpaper in these types of areas, the adhesive will react to the humidity in the space.
Repairing the water-damaged sections is a lot more complicated as natural sunlight can also cause the paper to become faded in some areas. As a result, areas where the wallpaper has been replaced tend to be noticeable. To create a more flawless surface, you will need to replace the wallpaper in the entire wall, or even the whole room.
Tip: Choose to put wallpaper only on the most suitable areas.
If you really want wallpaper inside your bathroom or kitchen, you need to control the amount of water that touches the paper. For applications inside the bathroom or kitchen, install a splashback above the sink or tub to protect the paper from any droplets. You should also avoid applying wallpaper near the shower area for the same reason.
An alternative is to use tile for the lower half of the wall and install wallpaper on the upper half. Limiting the applied surface improves durability. You should also consider replacing the wallpaper every two years to maintain that smooth quality finish.
Pro: Wallpaper shows your personality.
They say that paint is for individuals who are indecisive while wallpaper is for the more creative.
Although paint does come in a wide selection of colors, homeowners tend to choose from a smaller range of neutral tones. As a result, there is a higher risk of coming across a space that is painted in the same shade as yours.
The same cannot be said with wallpaper. With the limitless variety of colors, patterns, textures, and shades, you can have a wallpaper that is unique to your home. Technological developments have also made it possible to create customized designs, providing designers and homeowners with even more choices.
Con: Choices can get overwhelming.
A single store can offer hundreds (if not thousands) of rolls of wallpaper with different prints, colors, shades, patterns, and textures. The size of the patterns and the repeat value can also vary immensely. You can even have personal photos turned into your own unique wallpaper.
In addition, what may look eye-catching inside the shop may not look as enticing when you apply inside the home. You can just as easily make the mistake of choosing the wrong type of wallpaper for a specific space.
Tip: Apply restraint.
Avoid the temptation of covering each wall in every room in your house with a different type of wallpaper. Doing so will leave you and your guests feeling overwhelmed. Instead, be purposeful in choosing where you want to apply the wallpaper so a cohesive look can be achieved.
Treat wallpaper as you would a painting or artwork. Use it sparingly to maximize its effect. As such, limit its application to a focus wall, or at most, two rooms in your entire home.
If in doubt, bring a level-headed relative, friend, or a designer with you when you visit the wallpaper store. By asking for a second opinion, you can feel more confident in choosing a design or print for your home.
Wallpaper has come a long way from the time of monarchs decorating their castles with patterned fabric. The combination of modern design and technology have made quality wallpaper more accessible to the public.
Now, there is an endless assortment of patterns, designs, and styles available in stores. Given the options, you are bound to find one or several that suit your discerning taste. So give wallpaper a try and see how these wall coverings can transform the look and feel of your home.
AUTHOR BIO
James Prathap is the General Manager at NGC Nafees, top importers and exporters of wallpapers, flooring and fabric in the Middle East. Formed three decades ago, the business also offers high-quality panoramics, coordinated fabrics, and creative stickers for residential and commercial projects.