What Should You Not Do When Choosing Wallpaper?

When choosing wallpaper, you’ll want to pick a design that will flow with your room’s decor and overall style. But it’s easy to get carried away and end up with wallpaper that isn’t right for your space. This can be costly, time-consuming, and frustrating to fix later on. That’s why we spoke to designers and wallpaper experts to find out what mistakes to avoid when selecting a new wallpaper.

1. Don’t Go Overboard

Choosing wallpaper is one of the most important things to consider when designing your space. Whether you’re using wallpaper to add color or texture, it can make or break the overall look of your room. It can also be a major investment, so it’s crucial to choose the right design.

Fortunately, there are some helpful tips to keep in mind when it comes to selecting wallpaper. In particular, it is important to avoid going overboard.

Choosing the right wallpaper can have as much of an impact on your room’s look and feel as selecting the right paint. If you’re torn between the two, consider reading our article on The Different Types of Interior Paint.

First, you should consider the size of the room and what type of wallpaper will work best. For example, a large and open living space can be adorned with bold wallpaper that will draw the eye upward and create a dramatic sense of scale. However, a small bedroom may need less complex patterns to create a more relaxing atmosphere.

Another important factor to consider when choosing wallpaper is the material it’s made from. Certain types of materials may be more abrasive and scratchy than others, so it’s important to understand your specific needs before purchasing any wallpaper.

You should also consider how bright your room is and if it is intended to be used as a bedroom or a dining area. Generally, bedrooms should have softer, serene patterns that will allow you to relax and unwind after a long day. On the other hand, if you’re decorating a kitchen or entertainment room, you can use bold patterns to create a more vibrant feel.

Lastly, it is important to make sure that the wallpaper you purchase complements your existing decor and doesn’t clash with it. This is especially true if you’re going to be pairing wallpaper with the artwork. It’s also a good idea to consider the distance between the art and the wallpaper as this will help create a more visually striking effect.

2. Don’t Go For The Cheapest Option

When it comes to wallpaper, price is usually a consideration, but the quality isn’t necessarily the only factor. Choosing the best material for your space will make for an enjoyable and functional room. While we’re discussing costs, if you’re considering other home improvements, you might be interested in understanding The True Cost to Paint the Interior of a House In The Greater Vancouver Area. However, it’s important to consider your budget and how you plan on using the space before you buy. This will prevent you from wasting your hard-earned cash on something that falls short of the mark. It’s also a good idea to get an experienced opinion from someone who has been there before. If you’re looking for help with wallpaper, All Painting is here to help.

3. Don’t Go For The Simple Patterns

When thinking about paint patterns and colors, it’s also a good idea to know How to Test Out Paint Colours Before Painting Your Home to ensure you’re happy with the final result. When choosing wallpaper, it is important to choose patterns that are not too simple. This will help to avoid a room from becoming overly busy and unbalanced. You should also consider the scale of the pattern to ensure that it works well in the space you’re decorating. 

For example, a large, bold floral can create a lively atmosphere in a living room or kitchen, but a small pattern might be more appropriate for a bedroom.

You should also think about how the wallpaper is going to look in natural and artificial light. This will allow you to make sure that it is the right choice for your decor style and your home’s architecture.

Lastly, it is a good idea to get a few samples before committing to the wallpaper. Many companies will provide big samples of their wallpaper so that you can see how it looks in the space you’re decorating. You should also ask for a few repetitions of the design so that you can see how it looks in different lighting.

4. Don’t Go For Textured in High Traffic Areas

For rooms that need a durable finish, like kitchens or bathrooms, you might also consider which Type of Paint Should You Use in a Bathroom. When choosing wallpaper, it is important to avoid textured wallpaper in high-traffic areas. For example, if you choose a textured wallpaper in a high traffic area, it won’t be able to stand up to the daily abuse and will likely become damaged and scratched over time. 

Instead, opt for a light vinyl wallpaper or a durable paper wallpaper that will be easy to replace and won’t damage easily. It is best to choose a wallpaper that is washable so that you can keep it clean without having to worry about the stains showing through. This is particularly true for rooms that will be occupied by kids or pets, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Fortunately, most wallpapers will come in wipeable varieties.

Conclusion

Wallpaper is one of the best wall coverings for home decoration as it can be made from a wide variety of materials and finishes. From pearlescent finishes to raised inks, glitter, suede, gels, beads, foils and metallics, embossed silk textures, and natural grasscloth, the options are endless. Just as there are many finishes for wallpaper, there’s a variety when it comes to paints too. Learn about The Difference Between Epoxy Coating and Epoxy Paint if you’re considering a glossy, durable finish for certain areas. Also, when making home improvements, it’s not just about aesthetic appeal. Some changes can influence property value. Discover Does Wallpaper Affect Home Value? to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re renovating in Richmond or freshening up in Fraser Valley, our expert team has you covered. Discover the unparalleled craftsmanship of our Maple Ridge painters, Langley painters, and Richmond painters. For those in New Westminster or the Vancouver coastal areas, our New Westminster painters, West Vancouver painters, and North Vancouver painters are eager to bring your vision to life. And let’s not forget the unparalleled expertise of our Port Coquitlam painters, Coquitlam painters, Port Moody painters, Surrey painters, Burnaby painters, and of course, our dedicated Vancouver painters. No matter where you are, exceptional quality and attention to detail are just a click away. Embark on your home transformation journey with us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common wallpaper mistakes Vancouver homeowners make?

The most common mistakes include choosing patterns that are too large for small Vancouver condos, not ordering enough material to account for pattern matching waste, selecting non-moisture-resistant wallpaper for bathrooms or kitchens, and picking trendy designs that quickly look dated. Always request samples and view them in your actual room lighting before committing.

Can I use any wallpaper in a Vancouver bathroom?

No. Vancouver’s humid climate means bathrooms need wallpaper specifically rated for moisture resistance, such as vinyl or vinyl-coated wallpaper. Standard paper-based wallpapers will peel, bubble, and develop mould in a bathroom environment. If you want a non-vinyl option, ensure the bathroom has excellent ventilation and consider a peel-and-stick product rated for humid spaces.

How many rolls of wallpaper do I need for a room in a typical Vancouver home?

A standard 10-by-12-foot room with 8-foot ceilings in a typical Vancouver home requires approximately 8 to 10 single rolls, but this varies significantly based on pattern repeat. Large pattern repeats can waste 20 to 30 percent more material. Always measure carefully and order at least one extra roll from the same dye lot to account for matching and future repairs.

Should I choose bold or neutral wallpaper for a Vancouver condo?

For most Vancouver condos, neutral or subtle patterns work best because they make smaller spaces feel larger and appeal to a wider range of tastes if you plan to sell. Bold wallpaper can work well on a single accent wall or in a powder room where it creates a statement without overwhelming the space. Consider the natural light in your unit, as many Vancouver condos have limited light exposure.

Is peel-and-stick wallpaper a good option for renters in Vancouver?

Peel-and-stick wallpaper can be a great option for Vancouver renters because it is removable and typically does not damage walls, helping you get your damage deposit back. However, quality varies widely. Invest in a reputable brand, ensure your walls are smooth and clean before application, and test a small section first, as some painted surfaces in older Vancouver rentals may not hold adhesive well.