Wallpaper can transform the look and feel of any room, adding texture, pattern, and color to your interior design. Hanging wallpaper is an art form that requires skill and precision, and many homeowners wonder about the cost of professional wallpaper installation.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the factors that influence wallpaper installation costs, the pros and cons of DIY versus professional installation, and tips for finding the best wallpaper installers.
DIY Vs. Professional Wallpaper Installers: Pros and Cons
Installing your wallpaper might sound easy but there are many factors to consider and a lot could go wrong that could ruin your property. Here are the differences between DIY wallpaper installation and professional wallpaper installers:
DIY Wallpaper Installation
Installing wallpaper yourself can potentially save money on labor costs, but it’s a time-consuming and challenging task that requires patience, attention to detail, and some level of skill. Before starting a DIY project, it’s crucial to determine how much wallpaper is needed for your room. If you’re not experienced with wallpaper hanging or installing wallpaper, you risk ending up with bubbles, seams, or uneven patterns, which can ruin the overall look of your walls. Even if you manage to hang wallpaper correctly, the process can be physically demanding, requiring you to move furniture, prep walls, and work on ladders or in awkward positions.
Pros:
- Lower upfront cost (no labor fees)
- Flexibility to work at your own pace
- Sense of accomplishment from completing the project yourself
Cons:
- Risk of subpar results if you lack experience in wallpaper installation
- Potential for costly mistakes that require redoing the work or hiring a professional wallpaper installer
- The time-consuming and labor-intensive process
- Need to purchase or rent specialized tools and equipment like a sharp utility knife, smoothing tools, and a tape measure
- Difficulty matching patterns and achieving a seamless look, especially with patterned wallpaper or textured wallpaper
- Removing old wallpaper or existing wallpaper can be messy and arduous, requiring warm water and patience
- Limited access to specialty wallpapers like grasscloth wallpaper or mylar wallpaper
Professional Wallpaper Installation
Hiring professional wallpaper installers can be more expensive upfront, but it ensures a flawless and long-lasting result. The cost per square foot for professional wallpaper installation varies depending on the type of wallpaper and the complexity of the project. Top-rated wallpaper installers have the expertise and experience to handle any type of wallpaper, from traditional wallpaper to peel-and-stick wallpaper, vinyl-coated wallpaper, custom wallpaper, and even specialty wallpapers like grasscloth or mylar. They also have the necessary tools and equipment to properly prep walls, including repairing damaged walls, and installing the wallpaper with precision.
Pros:
- Guaranteed quality and professional results
- Experience in handling various wallpaper types and installation challenges
- Proper preparation of walls to ensure a smooth surface, including using lining paper if needed
- Efficient and timely installation process, even for entire walls or multiple rooms
- Specialized tools and equipment for a flawless finish, including smoothing brushes and cutting tools
- Potential to increase the value of your home with a high-quality wallpaper installation
- Access to a wide range of wallpaper options, including custom wallpaper and high-end natural materials
Cons:
- Higher upfront costs due to labor fees
- Scheduling and coordinating with the installer’s availability
- Potential for miscommunication or differing expectations on the final look
- Limited control over the installation process
When considering professional wallpaper installation costs, it’s essential to factor in both the material cost (wallpaper price per double roll or single roll, square footage required, and any additional materials like lining paper or extra wallpaper for pattern matching) and the labor costs (based on the installer’s hourly rate and the estimated time required). While the final price may be higher than a DIY approach, a professional installation can be a worthwhile investment, ensuring your chosen wallpaper is installed correctly and enhancing the overall interior design of your space.
Factors Affecting Wallpaper Installation Cost
Wallpaper installation can be a significant investment and it is essential to know what goes into the costs. Here are the factors to consider in the cost to install wallpaper.
Type of Wallpaper
The cost of wallpaper installation can vary depending on the type of wallpaper you choose. Vinyl wallpaper is a cost-effective option that offers numerous benefits, including low maintenance, a water-resistant finish suitable for high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens, and a variety of colors and textures. Traditional wallpaper, vinyl-coated wallpaper, and grasscloth wallpaper require more skill and time to install, which can increase the cost. Peel-and-stick or removable wallpaper, on the other hand, is generally easier and less expensive to install.
Wall Condition and Preparation
The condition of your walls plays a significant role in the overall cost of wallpaper installation. If your walls are damaged or have existing wallpaper that needs to be removed, the preparation work can add to the labor costs. Professional installers may need to repair, sand, or prime the walls before installing the new wallpaper, which can increase the overall cost.
Room Size and Wall Complexity
The size of the room and the complexity of the walls can also affect the cost of wallpaper installation. Wallpaper covers can be used to estimate the amount of wallpaper needed for a room, taking into account the square footage and any obstacles or pattern-matching requirements. Larger rooms or walls with intricate designs, corners, or trim will require more time and effort from the installer, leading to higher labor costs. Additionally, some rooms, like powder rooms or dining rooms, may require more precise pattern matching, which can increase the installation cost.
Accessibility and Location
The accessibility and location of the room or walls being wallpapered can also impact the cost. If the installer needs to navigate tight spaces, use ladders or scaffolding, or work in hard-to-reach areas, the installation cost may be higher due to the increased difficulty and time required.
So, How Much Do Wallpaper Installers Cost?
HomeAdvisor says the average cost of wallpaper installation ranges from $25 to $50 per hour, with most homeowners paying between $200 and $800 for a single room. However, the total cost can vary significantly based on the factors mentioned above, such as the type of wallpaper, wall condition, room size, and complexity of the installation.
For example, installing peel-and-stick wallpaper in a small powder room may cost around $200 to $400, while hiring a professional to install traditional wallpaper in a large living room with multiple walls could cost between $800 and $1,500 or more, depending on the specific requirements and the installer’s rates.
It’s important to note that these are average costs, and the actual cost may vary depending on your location, the wallpaper installer’s experience, and the specific project details.
H2: Finding the Best Wallpaper Installers
H3: Experience and Reputation
When it comes to finding the best wallpaper installers, experience and reputation are crucial. Look for installers who have been in the business for several years and have a portfolio of successful projects. Check online reviews, ask for references, and inquire about their experience with different types of wallpaper and installation challenges.
H3: Licensing and Insurance
Make sure the wallpaper installer you hire is properly licensed and insured. This protects you from potential liabilities and ensures that the work is performed according to industry standards and local regulations.
H3: Communication and Customer Service
Effective communication and excellent customer service are hallmarks of a top-notch wallpaper installer. Look for someone who is responsive, listens to your preferences and concerns, and provides clear explanations and estimates upfront.
H3: Quality of Work
Above all, the quality of work should be the primary consideration when choosing a wallpaper installer. Examine their portfolio, ask for references, and assess their attention to detail, pattern-matching skills, and overall craftsmanship.
In Summary
Wallpaper installation costs can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of wallpaper, wall condition, room size, and complexity of the installation. While DIY installation can save money, hiring a professional wallpaper installer can ensure a flawless result and save you time and frustration in the long run. When choosing an installer, consider their experience, reputation, licensing, communication skills, and the quality of their work. While the upfront cost may be higher, a professional wallpaper installation can be a worthwhile investment that enhances the beauty and value of your home.
By considering these factors and finding the right wallpaper installer for your project, you can achieve a stunning and long-lasting wallpaper installation that complements your interior design and adds character to your living spaces.