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Preparing the surface for wallpaper

  • Ceiling/walls should be in good condition and clean.
  • If you have stripped off old wallpaper ensure the walls are sanded down carefully as any little bit on the surface will show through the new paper.
  • It is a good idea to size(diluted paper adhesive will do) surfaces, especially new plaster, and allow to dry before you begin. This will allow you a bit of flexiblity to reposition your paper as you put it on the wall.
  • New plasterboard walls and dry-lined walls should be sealed with a primer-sealer(like very diluted Unibond®) before wallpapering otherwise when you come to strip off the paper again the surface of the plasterboard will come off too.
  • If you can do without the power then remove sockets and swithches to make your job a lot easier. Be sure you know how to refit them correctly.
  • Even if you can't turn off the electric, loosen each switch and socket in turn and carefully blow out any dust and bits behind them otherwise when you come to tuck your wallpaper in behind sockets and switches particles will fall down and show up on your newly papered surface.
  • Dust all surfaces that the wallpaper is likely to come in contact with.


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