How to Hire a Wallpaper Contractor
Welcome to Your Guide to Finding the Best Wallpaper Installer! Finding wallpaper is hard enough without trying to figure out who to hire. We have some of the top questions we are asked by homeowners regarding hiring a wallpaper installer. We will get into what qualities to look for, pitfalls to avoid, and what makes a wallpaper installer exceptional to help you decide
Why Hire a Professional Wallpaper Installer?
Wallpaper installation can be deceptively tricky, even for DIY-enthusiasts. Here is a link to FAQ article on wallpaper
Unlike paint, wallpaper can show bubbles, misalignments, and imperfections if not installed with care and expertise. A skilled installer will know how to prep surfaces, align patterns, and cut wallpaper for an even, seamless look—especially if the room has nooks, windows, or tricky corners.
Benefits of Hiring a Wallpaper Installer:
- Quality Results: A professional will ensure the wallpaper is smooth and bubble-free.
- Time-Efficient: They handle everything from wall prep to clean-up, saving you time and hassle.
- Expert Knowledge: A good installer understands wallpaper types and which adhesives work best with each, which can prevent peeling and curling.
What Should a Wallpaper Installer Know?
Wallpaper installation is part skill, part art. A qualified wallpaper contractor should have a solid understanding of the types of wallpaper, adhesives, and preparation methods needed to achieve a long-lasting finish.
Key Knowledge for a Wallpaper Installer:
- Surface Preparation: They should know how to clean and prep walls to ensure adhesion. This might involve sanding, patching holes, or priming for certain wallpaper types.
- Material Expertise: Not all wallpaper is the same. Vinyl, fabric, grasscloth, and peel-and-stick wallpapers each require unique handling.
- Pattern Matching: For wallpaper with intricate designs, the installer must align patterns seamlessly, especially in highly visible areas.
- Adhesives and Techniques: Some wallpapers need specific adhesives, and a professional should know how to apply each type without overusing glue, which can cause bubbling.
When vetting an installer, it’s worth asking about their experience with different wallpaper materials and adhesives, as well as their approach to preparation.
What to Avoid When Hiring a Wallpaper Installer
While many contractors offer wallpapering services, not all of them have the experience or skill needed to deliver high-quality results. Here’s what to look out for:
- Lack of Experience: A painting contractor might say they also do wallpaper, but experience is crucial. Hiring someone without a history of wallpaper projects can lead to misaligned seams, poorly adhered wallpaper, and bubbling.
- No Portfolio or References: Professionals usually showcase their work with a portfolio and should be able to offer references. If an installer lacks both, it’s a red flag.
- Rushed Estimates: An installer should take the time to assess your walls, discuss your options, and provide a clear estimate. Beware of installers who give a quick quote over the phone without seeing the room or asking detailed questions.
- Cheap Rates: While everyone loves a deal, extremely low bids often signal cost-cutting on materials, adhesives, or preparation, which could lead to issues down the road. As with most home improvements, you get what you pay for.
What Makes a Good Wallpaper Installer?
The right wallpaper installer will be both technically skilled and customer-focused. Here’s what to look for:
Qualities of a Great Wallpaper Installer:
- Detailed, Transparent Estimates: A quality installer should provide a written estimate that outlines labor, materials, and any additional costs.
- Professionalism and Punctuality: Timeliness and courteous communication matter. The installer should keep you updated, arrive on time, and answer any questions you have about the project.
- Respect for Your Home: A good contractor protects floors, trims, and surrounding areas, cleaning up thoroughly afterward. They treat your home with respect, minimizing mess and disruption.
- Positive Reviews and Testimonials: Look for reviews that mention things like quality, professionalism, and reliability. Sites like Google, Angie’s List, and Houzz can provide insight into their reputation.
- A Focus on Safety: Installing wallpaper involves ladders, adhesive chemicals, and cutting tools, so an installer should prioritize safety, including appropriate ventilation and use of eco-friendly or low-VOC adhesives if desired.
Questions to Ask a Potential Wallpaper Installer
When interviewing potential installers, ask them about their process and experience. Here are some questions that can help you decide:
- What types of wallpaper do you specialize in?
- How do you prepare walls for wallpaper?
- Can you provide references or a portfolio of past work?
- What brands of wallpaper and adhesive do you recommend?
- Do you offer a warranty on your work?
These questions can reveal how knowledgeable and detail-oriented the contractor is and help ensure that you’ll be satisfied with the results.
Final Thoughts on Finding a Wallpaper Installer
Choosing a wallpaper installer may take a bit of research, but it’s worth the effort to ensure your wallpaper looks flawless and lasts. By knowing what to ask, what to avoid, and the qualities of a professional wallpaper installer, you can make an informed choice that transforms your space beautifully.
This is another article that is from D’Franco Painting and Wallpaper’s dedication to providing homeowners with reliable and knowledgeable contractors for their wallpaper and paint needs. Let me know if you’d like more details, have questions or a want a estiamte!
