DIY, which allows you to change wallpaper yourself without having to consult with your landlord, is popular among young people.
However, if done incorrectly, it can damage the surface of the wall or the wallpaper itself.
So, in this article, we will show you how to successfully replace wallpaper when doing it yourself in a rental property.
We also explain the different types of peel-and-stick wallpaper available.
One way to make your rental property comfortable is to try your hand at DIY.
5 things to know before installing DIY wallpaper in a rental property
Here are five things to keep in mind before installing DIY wallpaper in a rental property.
- Check the rental property contract
- Find out what types of wallpaper you can use and what adhesives you can use.
- Check the condition of the walls
- Consult with the owner to avoid risks
- Calculate the cost of replacing wallpaper
1. Check your rental property contract
Before installing DIY wallpaper in a rental property, be sure to check the contract carefully.
Your contract may state whether or not you are prohibited from applying DIY wallpaper.
If it is prohibited, you will not be able to apply DIY wallpaper, so be careful.
Also, even if you are able to apply DIY wallpaper, there may be certain regulations.
For example, there are cases where restoration to the original condition is required or there are restrictions on the materials that can be used.
The contract contains detailed information, so be sure to read it carefully and understand it.
2. Find out what types of wallpaper you can use and what adhesives you can use.
When applying DIY wallpaper, it's important to choose the right adhesive depending on the type of wallpaper you're using.
The adhesive may vary depending on the material, color, pattern, etc. of the wallpaper.
For example, for paper wallpaper, border adhesive is suitable as it makes the borders less noticeable.
On the other hand, for vinyl wallpaper, it is advisable to use a strong adhesive that is water-resistant.
By choosing the right adhesive for the wallpaper you are using, you can prevent the wallpaper from peeling or floating.
Also, before applying wallpaper, be sure to research the type of wallpaper and the adhesives that can be used, and choose the appropriate adhesive.
Please note that depending on the type of wallpaper, you may not be able to use adhesive.
3. Check the condition of your walls
Before applying wallpaper, check the condition of the wall.
The walls may have bumps, cracks, and scratches.
If the walls are dirty or damaged, they should be repaired in advance.
If you are renting a property, you will need to consult with the owner and ask for instructions on how to repair it.
If you want to repair it yourself, you will need to purchase a restoration agent and fill in the scratches or apply wallpaper.
Also, if the wall is dirty or wet, clean the surface thoroughly and dry it with a soft cloth before applying the wallpaper.
4. Talk to the owner to avoid risks
If you are doing DIY wallpaper replacement in a rental property, it is also important to consult with the owner or real estate company about the wallpaper replacement.
For example, by consulting with the owner before putting up wallpaper, you can get their permission.
Depending on the contract or rules, replacing wallpaper may be prohibited.
Even if permission is granted, you may still be required to cover some of the repair costs, so it's a good idea to check in advance.
Additionally, rental property contracts may require the property to be restored to its original condition.
When removing wallpaper, there is a chance that the wall may be damaged, so be sure to check with the owner to see what method of dealing with this is preferable.
5. Calculate the cost of wallpaper replacement
When doing DIY wallpapering in a rental property, you need to be mindful of the cost.
Costs vary depending on the type of wallpaper and adhesive used.
Purchasing the tools and materials needed for DIY also costs money, so it is important to calculate the costs in advance.
Also, in rental properties you are obligated to restore the property to its original condition , so before replacing the wallpaper, be sure to take photos of the property's original condition.
Since the carpet will need to be restored to its original condition after reupholstering, the cost of restoring it to its original condition must be included in the calculation in addition to the cost of reupholstering.
Depending on the rental property, the owner may be required to cover the cost of replacing the curtains, so checking in advance can help you avoid making mistakes.
3 ways to avoid mistakes when wallpapering your rental property
1. Choose the right wallpaper type for your rental property
When installing wallpaper in a rental property yourself, it is important to choose wallpaper based on the rules stipulated in the property contract.
The type of wallpaper that is suitable for rental properties is one with simple colors and patterns.
Additionally, wallpaper that is easy to clean and doesn't show dirt is preferred.
Additionally, it is important to check the regulations stated in your rental agreement before installing wallpaper.
For example, if the rental property contract states that primary color wallpaper is prohibited, you will need to choose wallpaper in calm colors such as white or beige.
Also, if the property allows pets, you may want to choose wallpaper that is resistant to cat scratches.
By choosing wallpaper that is suitable for your rental property, not only will you avoid repair costs when you move out, but it will also make the property more comfortable to live in.
2. Prepare the wall before applying wallpaper
It is very important to prepare the wall before applying wallpaper.
If the surface preparation is not done properly, the wallpaper may peel off or become wavy.
First, remove any dirt or dust from the wall and make the surface clean.
Then, if there are any holes or dents, fill them with putty .
Once the putty has completely dried, use sandpaper to smooth out the surface.
In addition, if there is peeling paint, mold, or water stains, we will take appropriate measures to address each issue.
If paint is peeling, a primer will be applied to prepare the surface, and any mold or water stains will be removed using a special detergent.
By doing these prep steps properly, your wallpaper will stick nicely and last longer.
By preparing the base properly before applying wallpaper, you can improve the durability and finish of the wallpaper.
3. Choose your adhesive carefully before applying wallpaper
Choosing the type of adhesive before applying wallpaper is an important process that directly affects the finish and strength of the wallpaper.
Generally, there are two types of adhesives: water-based and oil-based.
Water-based adhesives dry quickly and have little odor, while oil-based adhesives are strong and do not peel off easily even when wet.
However, if you are living temporarily in a rental property or other such place, the landlord may impose a penalty if any glue remains when you peel off the wallpaper.
Therefore, it is important to choose an adhesive that can be removed as easily as possible before applying the wallpaper.
Also, when applying the adhesive, apply it evenly to ensure the wallpaper will stick nicely.
Apply a small amount at a time, being careful not to apply it unevenly.
By choosing the right adhesive, you can reduce the risk of your wallpaper peeling off and maintain a beautiful finish for a long time.
3 recommended peel-and-stick wallpapers for DIY rentals
Below are three types of wallpaper that we recommend for DIY peel and stick applications in rental properties.
- Sheet-type peel-and-stick wallpaper
- Smart canvas type peel-and-stick wallpaper
- Peel and stick wallpaper for the office
1. Peel-off sheet wallpaper
Sheet-type peel-and-stick wallpaper is wallpaper in sheet form that has adhesive already applied to it in the form of a sticker.
You can cut it to the size you need and then paste it according to where you want to paste it.
Also, when applying the sheet, lightly press it down and then squeeze out the air to prevent wrinkles from forming.
When removing it, just pull it off slowly with your hands and it will come off easily without damaging the walls or floors.
However, if you do reuse it, be careful as the adhesive may weaken.
Sheet-type peel-and-stick wallpaper is recommended because it is easy to DIY even for those who are new to wallpaper.
2. Smart canvas type peel-and-stick wallpaper
Smart Canvas type peel-and-stick wallpaper is a high-quality wallpaper that precisely reproduces illustrations and photographs printed on paper.
The paper quality is the same as that of regular paper, but it is lightweight and thin, making it easy to handle.
It is also a peel-and-stick wallpaper, so it can be easily applied and removed.
This type of wallpaper is also popular when renovating a room because it can easily change the atmosphere of the room.
However, depending on the condition of the surface to which it is applied, Smart Canvas type wallpaper may damage the wall when removed.
Therefore, it is important to check the condition of the wall and handle it carefully before applying the sticker.
3. Peel-off wallpaper for the office
Peel and stick office wallpaper is different from ordinary residential wallpaper and is a special type of wallpaper designed for use in public places such as commercial facilities and offices.
Our peel and stick wallpaper for offices is made from durable materials that are stain and scratch resistant.
Some also have UV protection and flame retardant properties, which help prevent fires.
In addition, some peel-and-stick wallpapers for the office can be customized to match your company's CI colors and design.
This allows you to unify the image of your office's interior and walls, creating a more office-like atmosphere.
However, peel-and-stick wallpaper for offices tends to be more expensive than wallpaper for residential use.
You may also need to hire a professional installer, so you need to consider the cost.
3 ways to check walls to ensure they are restored to their original condition when wallpapering a rental property
There are three main ways to check walls for proper wallpaper restoration in a rental property without fail.
- Know the wall material
- Check the condition of the walls
- Imagine the finished product after wallpapering
1. Know the wall material
Before applying wallpaper, it is important to know the material of the wall.
The adhesive strength and resistance to peeling vary depending on the material the wallpaper is applied to, so it is important to choose wallpaper that is suitable for the material.
For example, in the case of wooden houses, it is important to glue them well, as many of the materials are highly absorbent.
Also, when it comes to concrete and stone, the key is to use an appropriate amount of adhesive because the surfaces are hard and smooth.
Knowing the material of the wall will help you prepare the wallpaper smoothly and ensure a good-looking finish.
2. Check the condition of your walls
Before applying wallpaper, check the condition of the wall.
If your walls are damaged, cracked or have peeling paint, you will need to repair them before applying wallpaper.
If repairs are required, it is best to consult a building contractor.
Also, if the walls are damp, they will need to be dried.
If wallpaper is applied while the surface is still damp, it may peel off or become moldy.
Before applying wallpaper, be sure to check the condition of the wall carefully and repair or dry it out if necessary.
3. Visualize the finished look after wallpapering
Before you hang your wallpaper, visualize the final result you want.
For example, if you want to brighten up a room, choose wallpaper in light colors.
You can also change the atmosphere of your room by choosing your favorite patterns and designs.
Imagining the finished product after replacement can also be helpful when choosing wallpaper.
Wallpapers come in a variety of materials and patterns, so choose one that matches the look you want to create.
Once you have an image in mind, do the necessary preparations before applying the wallpaper.
It is important to check the condition of the wall, repair or clean it if necessary, and prepare the base properly before applying wallpaper.
3 DIY ways to restore wallpaper to its original condition for rental properties!
Below are three ways to apply wallpaper in a way that is restorable to its original condition and can be used by DIY renters.
- Be careful with how you apply the adhesive
- Prepare the surface before applying wallpaper
- Treat wallpaper edges and seams carefully
1. Be careful how you apply the adhesive
When applying wallpaper, adhesive is used.
Applying adhesive will help the wallpaper stick securely.
However, care must be taken when applying the adhesive.
If you apply too much adhesive, the wallpaper will shift or ripple.
Also, if you apply too little adhesive, the wallpaper may peel off, so it is important to use the right amount and apply it evenly.
For example, you can apply the adhesive little by little, spreading it evenly with a brush.
It is also important to use a moisture meter to check that the humidity is not too high before applying wallpaper.
High humidity can make it difficult for the adhesive to dry and can cause the wallpaper to peel off.
2. Prepare the surface before applying wallpaper
Before applying wallpaper, you need to prime the surface.
Priming is the process of cleaning the surface of the wall to make it easier to apply wallpaper.
If the surface preparation is not done properly, the wallpaper may peel off easily or become wavy.
Substrate preparation methods include cleaning the walls, repairing holes and dents in the walls, and smoothing the substrate.
When cleaning walls, it is important to thoroughly remove dust and dirt from the walls using a vacuum cleaner or similar tool.
To repair holes or dents in the wall, you will need to use a putty that is suitable for the wall and fill the hole or dent.
To smooth the base, it is important to use sandpaper to remove any joints or cracks and to make the wall surface even.
By properly preparing the surface and applying wallpaper to a neatly prepared wall, you will achieve a more beautiful finish.
3. Treat wallpaper edges and seams carefully
When applying wallpaper, it is very important to carefully handle the edges and seams of the wallpaper.
If edges or seams lift or peel, you won't be able to achieve a beautiful finish.
To finish edges and seams, first use a cutter or something similar to cut away the excess wallpaper.
Then, apply special adhesive to the edges and joints and press them firmly.
If any excess adhesive gets on the product, wipe it off immediately.
Also, if there are seams, paste the wallpaper so that the patterns match up.
If the patterns don't match, they will stand out, so be careful.
By carefully processing edges and seams, you can achieve a beautiful finish.
Take your time and process it properly.
[Finally] Even beginners can do DIY wallpapering in a rented property!
This time,
- DIY wallpaper replacement for rented properties
- Things to be careful about and how to avoid mistakes
- Recommended types of peel-and-stick wallpaper
- How to check and paste walls so that restoration to their original state does not fail
We have explained about this.
There are many things to be careful about when doing DIY wallpaper in the special environment of a rental property, so in order to avoid failure, it's important to prepare thoroughly in advance.
Plus, if you make a mistake the first time, you can easily remove it by choosing a peel-and-stick wallpaper.
In addition, using wallpaper that can be restored to its original state and following the correct application and removal methods can also lead to a smooth termination of the contract.
DIY wallpapering is a quick and stylish method, but be sure to keep in mind the precautions and methods to avoid mistakes to ensure a smooth DIY experience!