By Burke & Crew Paintwrights
Serving Gloucester and the surrounding Cape Ann communities for over 10 years.
Wallpaper has made a strong comeback in recent years, but successful results still depend heavily on how it’s installed. Unlike paint, wallpaper leaves very little room for error, which is why many homeowners choose to work with a professional wallpaper installer rather than attempt the job themselves.
If you’re considering wallpaper installation services, this guide explains what matters most before hiring a professional—and what to expect throughout the process.
Why Wallpaper Installation Is Different from Painting
Painting is forgiving. Wallpaper is not.
Wallpaper installation requires:
- Precise surface preparation
- Accurate pattern alignment
- Proper adhesive selection
- Clean seams and consistent tension
Even high-quality materials can fail if installed incorrectly. Bubbling, visible seams, lifting edges, or premature peeling are almost always the result of installation issues rather than the wallpaper itself.
What a Professional Wallpaper Installer Brings to the Job
A professional wallpaper installer does more than hang material on a wall.
Professional wallpaper installation services typically involve:
- Evaluating wall condition before installation
- Addressing imperfections that could affect adhesion
- Ensuring patterns align correctly across walls and corners
- Working efficiently without damaging surrounding surfaces
These details are especially important in older homes, where walls may not be perfectly flat or may include plaster, previous repairs, or multiple layers of old finishes.
Local Experience Matters—Especially in Older Homes
As a residential painting company based in Gloucester, Burke & Crew Paintwrights has worked in hundreds of homes throughout Cape Ann. Many of these properties feature older construction, plaster walls, or surfaces that require additional preparation before wallpaper installation.
That local, hands-on experience helps determine:
- Whether wallpaper is appropriate for a given wall
- What preparation may be required
- How to achieve a clean, lasting finish
Understanding the condition of the wall is just as important as choosing the wallpaper itself.
Preparing Walls for Wallpaper Installation
Wall preparation is one of the most overlooked aspects of wallpaper installation.
Depending on the wall, preparation may include:
- Repairing cracks or imperfections
- Smoothing textured surfaces
- Removing old wallpaper
- Priming to support proper adhesion
Skipping or rushing this step often leads to visible problems later. Professional wallpaper services prioritize preparation because it directly affects the finished result.
How Long Does Wallpaper Installation Take?
Installation time varies depending on several factors, including:
- Room size
- Wall condition
- Type of wallpaper
- Pattern complexity
Smaller rooms or accent walls may be completed in a day, while larger spaces or detailed installations can take longer. A professional installer can provide realistic expectations based on the specific project.
Wallpaper Installation Cost: What Influences Pricing?
Wallpaper installation cost is influenced by more than just square footage.
Common factors include:
- Wall condition and preparation needs
- Pattern matching requirements
- Type of wallpaper material
- Accessibility of the space
While wallpaper installation may cost more upfront than painting, many homeowners find the long-term value worthwhile due to durability and visual impact.
Wallpaper Removal as Part of the Process
In many homes, wallpaper installation begins with wallpaper removal.
Old wallpaper that isn’t properly removed can interfere with new installation, leading to adhesion problems or uneven surfaces. Professional wallpaper services often include both Wallpaper Removal & Installation to ensure walls are properly prepared before new material is applied.
Frequently Asked Questions
In some cases, yes—but it depends on the level of texture and the type of wallpaper being used. Heavily textured walls often require smoothing or skim coating before wallpaper installation to ensure proper adhesion and a clean finished look.
Yes. Professional wallpaper removal helps protect the underlying wall surface and reduces the risk of damage, especially in older homes with plaster or previously repaired walls.
If you’re using a Lifetime plan, the charges will be taken only once, and you’ll be able to use the product from the subscription and receive all the updates without any additional payments or charges taken.
Note: *Prices exclude VAT/Taxes
Wallpaper quantities are typically determined by measuring the walls and accounting for pattern repeats and waste. Many homeowners choose to consult with a professional before purchasing to ensure accurate ordering.
Wallpaper quantities are typically determined by measuring the walls and accounting for pattern repeats and waste. Many homeowners choose to consult with a professional before purchasing to ensure accurate ordering.
Installation time varies based on room size, wall condition, and the complexity of the wallpaper. Smaller rooms may take a day, while larger or more detailed installations can take longer.
Burke & Crew Paintwrights serves Gloucester and the surrounding Cape Ann communities. Know More