Most non-experts who are about to redecorate their homes are often surprised to learn that the different types of wallpaper are not distinguished by patterns and colors alone. In fact, wallpaper is often made from a number of different materials and is installed using different methods. Choosing the most appropriate wallpaper for your home is probably the most difficult part of the entire process. Not only do you have to choose the ideal design, color or style; but you should also take some time to choose what type of wallpaper works best for you.
Common wallpaper has a somewhat misleading name, because it’s actually not very common anymore. This was the original wallpaper used in homes before the advent of vinyl wallpaper. You may still find common wallpaper that elegantly enhances the look of older homes, but this variety of wallpaper has fallen out of favor because it tends to be more difficult to install. As such, vinyl wallpaper has become an all-purpose alternative regularly found in paint and home improvement shops.
Vinyl wallpaper typically features a patterned or colored side with a self-adhesive backing. This type of wallpaper is relatively durable and is ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and children’s bedrooms. Depending on where you want to use vinyl wallpaper, look for varieties that are resistant to mildew. Vinyl wallpaper is usually quite easy to work with, as it doesn’t stick to itself and holds up well to cleaning and exposure to moisture. As well as being versatile, vinyl wallpaper is also available in a wide range of styles and colors.
Foil wallpaper is becoming more popular among designers today. Especially when used in small spaces, foil wallpaper can add an interesting design element. While not as durable as vinyl wallpaper, foil wallpaper is available in various patterns. Unfortunately, this type of wallpaper is also a bit more difficult to work with as wrinkles or folds become visible on the wall; and foil wallpaper does not hide wall flaws well.
Flocking wallpaper is the preferred choice for accenting décor and formal rooms like the dining room. You can recognize flocked wallpaper by its embossed velvety patterns. The textural aspect of flocked wallpaper provides another design element, but it is also less durable than vinyl. Despite being washable, rubbing this wallpaper can remove or damage surface grain.
Next, we can talk about grass cloth which is actually made from woven grass. Unfortunately, grass cloth can be the least durable of all wallpapers and is therefore not recommended for rooms with children. In addition, moisture can damage this type of wallpaper, so cleaning it can also be a bit more complicated. However, grasscloth wallpaper has an interesting texture and gives a more natural, earthy feel to a room.
Finally, fabric wallpaper is another popular choice for designers. Made from textiles, fabric wallpaper may or may not be laminated to regular wallpaper. Stains can be a problem, as cleaning methods for fabric wallpaper will vary depending on the type of fabric used. Additionally, fabric wallpaper can be difficult to work with due to the natural stretching that occurs in many fabrics. Still, fabric wallpaper works well with contemporary designs and can bring warmth to a large room.
Now that you have a basic idea of the different types of wallpaper, you should be ready to narrow your search based on where you plan to install the wallpaper. While vinyl wallpaper is easily the most common type of wallpaper today, let your imagination take over your choice as well.
