Wallpaper removal and installation may seem like an easy task, but in reality, it can take a lot of expertise to get the job done right. Along with that comes a whole selection of different tools and equipment that make the job possible—no, just having wallpaper isn't enough. With the right tools, a skilled wallpaper installer can make easy work of any wallpaper job.
If you're thinking about wallpapering part of your home or are wondering why it may be worth it to hire an expert, it can help to know a bit about these tools and what they do. You might just be surprised at the many different tools needed for a quality wallpaper installation!
If you aren't using pre-pasted wallpaper, you are going to need some way to apply the paste before hanging wallpaper. While any brush you have lying around may do the trick, it is best to use a brush specifically designed for the task at hand. The reason is that the construction of a paste brush makes them ideal for getting the job done efficiently, and without damaging your wallpaper.
A seam roller is used to apply pressure along the seams of your wallpaper after you install it. Seams are an area that can easily stand out after you hang wallpaper, and if you don't flatten them properly they may start to peel. Using a seam roller can make these seams invisible, and help to make your wallpaper last for many more years.
There's nothing worse than hanging a sheet of wallpaper only to find unsightly ripples and air bubbles. Luckily, a lot of these issues can be fixed with a smoothing tool or smoothing brush. These tools allow you to efficiently smooth wallpaper, reach those tough corners and edges, and avoid damage.
A level may be a simple tool yet it is infinitely useful. Hanging your wallpaper straight is one of the most important parts of the job, and most of the time your eyes simply can't do the trick, no matter how accurate you think they may be.
Another useful tool is a plumb line, which is essentially a string with a weight on one end. When hung from the ceiling, gravity pulls the line straight downwards, allowing for perfect vertical alignment.
A chalk line works a bit like a plumb line but can be used in multiple directions and leaves behind a visible mark on the wall. Essentially, a chalk line uses a string coated in chalk dust to draw a line on the wall between any two points.
A tape measure will come in handy for multiple different tasks when wallpapering. Most importantly it helps you to measure your room so you know how much wallpaper you need, and it will also help you to measure the length of wallpaper when installing.
Rarely will your wallpaper sheets be the perfect size for your wall, and you will usually need to trim them down, especially on the floor and ceiling. One of the best tools for this job is a utility knife. These knives can make quick work of cutting and, unlike scissors, they provide a lot more flexibility for those hard-to-reach angles.
Consider a knife with a snap-off blade. These allow you to always make sure your knife is as sharp as possible, so you won't do any unnecessary damage to your wallpaper as a result of dull tools. Along with your utility knife, a straight edge may be useful to ensure your cuts are under control. Remember - you can't undo a cut once it has been made.
A putty knife is one of the most versatile wallpaper tools. One primary use is as a wallpaper remover, for scraping and removing wallpaper. It may also be used in a pinch as a smoother or straight edge. Finally, it can be used as intended, to fill holes or dents in the drywall before you install your new wallpaper.
The walls in a home are on average around nine feet, and often higher. Even for the taller among us, it can be hard to reach those high ceilings to properly install wallpaper. A ladder will be an essential tool to make sure your wallpaper is installed correctly from floor to ceiling. It's important as well that you have a proper ladder, and not try to use other things like furniture to boost your height, as this can pose a major safety risk.
You may need to strip old wallpaper before you install a new layer. This can be a tough process if you just start ripping and tearing, but with the right tools, it can be made easy. One of the most common ways is to wet the old wallpaper with warm water from a spray bottle or sponge to loosen the adhesive. A wallpaper scorer can help water soak in by making small holes in the paper, and a steamer may help to loosen adhesive as well. Finally, a scraper tool can be used for those spots that don't peel easily.
Overall, installing wallpaper can take a lot more tools than you may expect. Though the right tools can make the job easier, many homeowners prefer to work with a professional wallpapering service to make sure the job is done right.
If you need wallpaper installation in Toronto, look no further than Apex Inc. Since 1998, Apex has provided customers with high-quality wallpapering services that transform your home one wall at a time.