How to install peel and stick wallpaper

Room temperature and adhesive effectiveness

After properly preparing the wall, you can begin the installation process. Keep in mind that it's generally not advisable to apply peel and stick wallpaper when the temperature in the room is below 50°F ( 10°C), as this can impact the adhesive's effectiveness.

Initial alignment and first application

Line up the wallpaper according to the guidelines. Peel about 12 inches of backing paper from the top of the peel and stick wallpaper. Apply it to the wall, starting at the ceiling. Leave a slight overhang at the ceiling to prevent gaps caused by an uneven ceiling. Trim the extra wallpaper later.

Step-by-Step application method

For a more straightforward application process, peel only a tiny portion of the backing paper, about a foot, then line it straight. As you work your way down, gradually peel off the remaining backing. To ensure proper adhesion, press the adhesive side onto the surface and smooth it out with a squeegee.

Smoothing and securing the wallpaper

Continue placing the strips around the room, aligning the seams without overlapping. When encountering obstacles, make relief cuts to alleviate pressure and tension on the wallpaper, enabling you to attach the wallpaper without tearing it. After smoothing the strip around the obstacle using relief cuts, trim any excess wallpaper as you would at the ceiling and baseboards.

Handling obstacles during installation

You'll need a putty knife or a sharp edge to pry a single corner loose to remove peel and stick wallpaper. Then, pull the panel off the surface like you would do with a sticker.