On this page you’ll
find answers to frequently asked questions about the wallpaper sold on
our website. We know hanging wallpaper can seem daunting, especially if
you're new at it, but don't worry—we're here to help!
What do the wallpaper measurements tell me?
When you look at our wallpaper, you'll notice three separate measurements for each pattern:
- Width: This tells you how wide a roll of wallpaper is. We carry two different widths: 20.5” and 27”.
- Length: This tells you how long a roll is. We carry two lengths corresponding to the above widths: 33’ and 27’.
- Square footage: This is helpful for determining how
many rolls you will need to order. If your wall is 10’ tall by 15’
wide, this is 150 square feet (height x width). If you know that a roll
of your wallpaper of choice covers 56 square feet, you can calculate
that three rolls will comfortably cover your space while allowing for
waste (56 square feet x 3 rolls of wallpaper = 168 square feet of
coverage).
In lieu of doing calculations like this in your head, it's much
easier just to use our wallpaper calculator (which you can find on each
product page) to determine how many rolls you will need. Just plug in
your room size and some additional information, and we'll give you an
idea of what you need to order to cover your space completely.
What is a wallpaper “repeat”? Will it change the way I hang my wallpaper?
A wallpaper's “repeat” determines both how often the pattern repeats
itself horizontally, and how each panel of wallpaper will line up with
each other. Here are the three repeat types you will see in the Disney
collection:
- Drop Match: The most common type of repeat in our
collection, a drop match repeats itself in every other panel. Every
other strip of wallpaper installed will have the same design at the
ceiling line. This forms a diagonal pattern sequence, rather than the
horizontal pattern sequence created by a straight match. An example of
this would be this paisley pattern, where the colored paisleys repeat at the point where your first two panels align.
- Straight Match: Every panel of wallpaper hung will
look exactly the same. The wallpaper will match on adjoining strips,
creating a horizontal pattern sequence. An example of this would be this harlequin pattern. As you can see, the diamond design is exactly the same the whole way across the paper.
- Random: Wallpaper with a random match has a pattern
sequence that will match no matter how the adjoining strips are
positioned on the wall. An example of this would be a striped wallpaper. By far the easiest repeat to deal with!
For all you visual learners out there, here's a quick diagram that
you may find useful, using the same patterns referenced above:
Why do I need to “prime” my walls before hanging wallpaper?
Primer is a sealant for walls that prevents paste from being absorbed
into the drywall or sheetrock. It also allows wallpaper paste to “grip”
otherwise slick surfaces. Primer is important to use prior to
application, as it makes removing wallpaper much easier, and also
ensures that your paper will stick properly without curling or falling.
Can I hang wallpaper on textured walls, or on other surfaces (paneling, brick, stucco...)?
You can! But before applying wallpaper, you will need to apply a
specialty pre-sized wallpaper liner, like Wonder Cover,
that is designed to bridge gaps in paneling or smooth out other
textured surfaces. Once the liner is in place, you will have a more
uniform base on which to hang your paper.
Where in my room should I start hanging the wallpaper?
Don't start right in the middle of the wall! The first panel you hang
may not completely match other panels on the left and right side. So,
the best place to start is in the least visible corner of your room.
This would be by the entryway (if you are papering an entire room), or
in the corner (if you are papering an accent wall).
Why is it important to allow for waste?
It's important to remember that, save “random” match patterns, your
wallpaper will not perfectly repeat across each applied panel without
you manually lining things up. Because you may need to trim several
inches from the top of a roll to match panel one to panel two, you
should have a comfortable amount of extra wallpaper in your order.
Generally, the larger the repeat, the more waste you should expect
(because you will need to be more precise when you line up these
patterns). You should never order only exactly as much as you
need—always order extra. If you end up with an unused and unopened roll
of wallpaper, you can always return it to us for a refund.
Why are run numbers important?
If
you check your wallpaper packaging, you should see a small "R01,"
"R02," "R03," or something similar. The “R” stands for “run,” this tells
you the batch of wallpaper your rolls came from. Although we rely on
some of the best presses and color mixers in the United States, you may
notice slight color differences between separately printed runs. If you
find you need an extra roll to complete a pattern you have already
started to apply, you should try to order from the same run as your
existing paper, just to be sure everything looks even.
If you need to order from a specific run, please e-mail us before
you place your order so we can be sure that we have your run in stock.
As a word of caution, we will not always be able to fulfill special run
requests, especially on older patterns and runs.
If you absolutely must apply paper from two different runs, we
recommend matching the end of the first one and the beginning of the
second in the corner of a room. That way, if there is any color
difference, it will not be as obvious as it would be in the middle of
the wall.
Can I apply wall decals to my wallpaper?
Yes—but use caution! RoomMates does not recommend applying our wall
decals or peel & stick borders to wallpaper until it has had time to
“settle.” Much like applying decals to fresh paint, we suggest waiting
approximately two weeks before sticking RoomMates to newly papered
surfaces. Applying decals before the paper has settled could cause
damage to the wallpaper, damage to your RoomMates, or both.
Can I return my wallpaper?
Absolutely. Please read our Return Policy
for more information, as well as instructions on how to receive an RA
number. Returns are accepted for unused and unopened rolls of wallpaper
within 30 days of purchase. If you somehow find yourself with defective
wallpaper, please call or e-mail us so we can replace what we've sent you with good stock.