How Much Does it Cost to Install Wallpaper? The Expert’s Guide

So, you’re thinking about ditching the paint and embracing the patterned panache of wallpaper. Excellent choice! Wallpaper can transform a room from drab to dazzling, adding depth, texture, and personality that paint simply can’t match. But before you get lost in the endless swirls of design possibilities, let’s address the big question: How much does it actually cost to install wallpaper?

The short answer: Expect to pay anywhere from $3 to $12 per square foot for professionally installed wallpaper. This range encompasses both the cost of the wallpaper itself and the labor involved. For an average-sized room (say, 10×12 feet with 8-foot ceilings), you could be looking at a total project cost of $360 to $1440. However, like any home improvement project, the final price tag is influenced by a variety of factors, which we’ll delve into now.

Understanding the Cost Breakdown: What Affects the Price?

The price of wallpaper installation isn’t just plucked out of thin air. It’s a carefully calculated sum of several key elements. Understanding these components will empower you to make informed decisions and potentially shave some dollars off your budget.

1. The Wallpaper Itself: Material Matters

This is the most obvious cost factor. Wallpaper comes in a vast array of materials, each with its own price point:

• Vinyl Wallpaper: This is the most common and often the most affordable option, typically ranging from $1 to $5 per square foot. It’s durable, washable, and comes in a myriad of patterns.
• Non-Woven Wallpaper: More breathable than vinyl, non-woven wallpaper is also easier to install and remove. Expect to pay $2 to $7 per square foot.
• Grasscloth Wallpaper: Made from natural fibers, grasscloth adds texture and a touch of organic elegance. It’s pricier, usually costing $5 to $15 per square foot.
• Fabric Wallpaper: Think linen, silk, or velvet. Fabric wallpapers are the epitome of luxury but come with a hefty price tag, ranging from $10 to $30+ per square foot.
• Specialty Wallpapers: This category includes textured wallpapers, metallic wallpapers, and hand-painted murals. Prices can vary wildly, easily exceeding $20 per square foot.

The pattern complexity also impacts the price. Wallpapers with intricate, repeating patterns require more precision during installation, potentially increasing labor costs due to the extra time needed for matching seams.

2. Labor Costs: Skill and Experience Command a Premium

Labor costs typically account for 50% to 75% of the total wallpaper installation cost. Experienced wallpaper installers possess a specialized skillset that involves:

• Surface Preparation: This is crucial. The wall must be perfectly smooth, clean, and primed to ensure proper adhesion. This might involve patching holes, sanding uneven surfaces, and applying a wallpaper primer. The worse the condition of your walls, the more prep work is required, and the higher the labor costs.
• Precise Measurement and Cutting: Wallpaper needs to be meticulously measured and cut to fit the wall dimensions, accounting for pattern repeats and minimizing waste.
• Expert Application: Applying wallpaper smoothly and seamlessly requires a steady hand, knowledge of adhesive types, and the ability to handle challenging corners and angles.
• Seam Alignment: Invisible seams are the hallmark of a professional wallpaper installation. Achieving this requires patience, skill, and attention to detail.

The more complex the job – intricate patterns, difficult room layouts, or challenging surfaces – the higher the labor costs will be.

3. Room Size and Complexity: More Wall, More Money

Logically, larger rooms require more wallpaper and more labor, increasing the overall cost. Rooms with intricate layouts, such as those with many windows, doors, or alcoves, also demand more time and precision, translating to higher labor costs. High ceilings can also be a factor, as they require scaffolding or special equipment.

4. Removal of Existing Wallpaper: A Necessary Evil (Sometimes)

If you’re replacing existing wallpaper, its removal will add to the project cost. Removing wallpaper can be a time-consuming and messy process, especially if it’s been poorly applied or has multiple layers. Professional wallpaper removal typically costs $1 to $3 per square foot. DIY removal can save money, but be prepared for a potentially frustrating and time-consuming task.

5. Location, Location, Location: Regional Price Differences

Like most home improvement services, wallpaper installation costs can vary depending on your geographic location. Labor rates and material costs tend to be higher in major metropolitan areas compared to rural areas.

Saving Money on Wallpaper Installation: Smart Strategies

While wallpaper installation isn’t cheap, there are ways to potentially reduce the overall cost:

• DIY (With Caution): If you’re handy and have a good eye for detail, you can attempt wallpaper installation yourself. However, be realistic about your skill level and the complexity of the project. Practice on a small, inconspicuous area first.
• Choose Simpler Wallpaper: Opting for a less expensive material like vinyl or a simple, non-repeating pattern can significantly reduce material costs.
• Prepare the Walls Yourself: Thoroughly cleaning, patching, and priming the walls can save on labor costs.
• Get Multiple Quotes: Contact several wallpaper installers and compare their bids. Be sure to ask for a detailed breakdown of their costs.
• Time of Year: Consider scheduling your installation during the off-season (typically winter) when demand is lower and installers may offer discounts.

Wallpaper Installation: FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the world of wallpaper installation:

1. Can I install wallpaper myself?

Yes, you can, but should you? It depends on your skill level, patience, and the complexity of the project. Simple wallpaper patterns on smooth, straightforward walls are easier to DIY. Complex patterns, textured wallpapers, and rooms with intricate layouts are best left to the professionals.

2. How long does it take to install wallpaper?

The duration of the project depends on the size of the room, the complexity of the wallpaper, and the condition of the walls. A small room can typically be completed in a day or two. Larger rooms or more complex installations may take several days.

3. How do I choose the right wallpaper installer?

Look for an installer with experience, a good reputation, and positive reviews. Ask for references and check their portfolio. Make sure they are licensed and insured.

4. What is the best type of wallpaper?

The “best” type depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the room’s function. Vinyl is durable and washable, making it ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. Grasscloth adds texture and warmth to living rooms and bedrooms.

5. How do I measure for wallpaper?

Measure the height and width of each wall. Multiply the height by the width to get the square footage of each wall. Add up the square footage of all the walls to determine the total square footage. Add an extra 10-15% for waste and pattern matching.

6. Do I need to prime my walls before installing wallpaper?

Yes! Priming is essential for proper adhesion and prevents the wallpaper adhesive from soaking into the wall. Use a wallpaper primer specifically designed for this purpose.

7. How do I remove existing wallpaper?

There are several methods, including steaming, soaking with wallpaper remover, and scoring the wallpaper. The best method depends on the type of wallpaper and the condition of the walls.

8. Can wallpaper be installed in a bathroom?

Yes, but choose a moisture-resistant wallpaper like vinyl. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent mold and mildew growth.

9. How do I clean wallpaper?

The cleaning method depends on the type of wallpaper. Vinyl wallpaper can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Grasscloth and other delicate wallpapers should be professionally cleaned.

10. Can wallpaper be painted over?

Yes, but it’s generally not recommended. Painting over wallpaper can create a bumpy, uneven surface. It’s best to remove the wallpaper first.

11. What is pattern matching?

Pattern matching refers to aligning the wallpaper pattern at the seams so that it appears seamless. Different wallpaper patterns have different match types: straight match, drop match, and random match.

12. How much waste should I expect when installing wallpaper?

Expect to waste around 10-15% of the wallpaper due to pattern matching and cutting. Complex patterns may require even more waste.

Ultimately, the cost of installing wallpaper is an investment in the aesthetic appeal and value of your home. By understanding the factors that influence the price and making informed decisions, you can achieve the beautiful, personalized space you’ve always dreamed of without breaking the bank.