Flooring and Wallpaper Installation Order Guide
If you're moving or tackling a remodel, you often need to replace both your flooring and wallpaper. It can feel overwhelming figuring out which one to do first, especially if you still have stuff in the house. In this post, we're breaking down the proper order for flooring and wallpaper installation, how the timeline changes, and what to look for when hiring a contractor.
Once you know the sequence, you'll have clearer questions for your contractor and can easily check if any steps are missing from the quote. DoBaejeongseok is an info blog designed to help people preparing for moves and renovations make these decisions with confidence.
Why Does the Order of Flooring and Wallpaper Matter?
Flooring and wallpaper are different materials, so the order of work definitely impacts the final result. If you finish the floor first, dust or adhesive from the wallpaper process could end up on your new flooring. Conversely, if you put up the wallpaper first, the lower parts of the wall might get scratched or stained during the floor installation.
Because of this, most jobs follow a pattern: tear out the old materials, prep the floor, finish the wallpaper first, and then install the flooring as the final step. However, the exact order might shift depending on the condition of your home and the materials you choose, so always double-check with your contractor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Flooring and Wallpaper Installation Order
Here is the typical workflow:
- Remove existing flooring and wallpaper, and take off baseboards.
- Prepare the floor and repair any loose spots, then inspect the walls.
- Install the wallpaper (including applying paste) and prepare for installing molding and baseboards.
- Allow adequate drying time for the wallpaper.
- Install the flooring and finish the edges.
- Install baseboards, clean up, and perform a final inspection.
There needs to be time built in between each step for drying and cleanup. If you rush these waiting periods, the finish can look sloppy, so it's safest to build in some buffer time when creating your schedule.
What Affect the Time Needed for Wallpaper and Flooring Installation?
The time it takes to install new flooring and wallpaper isn't just based on the size of your home. Factors like how much old material needs to be removed, whether the floor needs repairs, and what kind of wallpaper you choose all play a role.
If you're doing the work while your belongings are still in the house, the extra time spent moving things around and protecting surfaces will add up. When scheduling, it’s smart to also plan how you’ll manage your daily traffic flow during the construction period.
- Scope of Removal: Are you just replacing the flooring, or are you also changing the wallpaper and baseboards?
- Floor Condition: Check for any lifting, cracking, or signs of moisture.
- Wallpaper Type: Is it coated paper (bonded paper) or vinyl (silk)? Are you adding any accent walls?
- Occupancy: Are you working on an occupied home or an empty one?
How is Apartment Wallpapering Cost Calculated?
The cost for wallpapering an apartment isn't determined by the square footage alone. It depends on the type of wallpaper, the thickness and material of the flooring, the scope of removal, whether you're doing the ceiling, and if it's a partial or full room job. When you receive a quote, look closely at how the costs are broken down rather than just the final number.
| Check Item | What to Look For in the Quote |
|---|---|
| Materials | Details on the type, thickness, and brand of wallpaper and flooring. |
| Removal | Whether the quote includes the removal of existing materials. |
| Scope of Work | If the quote covers the ceiling, baseboards, and molding. |
| Extra Costs | Conditions for additional charges if floor repairs or material changes are needed. |
How to Choose the Right Wallpapering Contractor
It’s easy to make a mistake if you only compare prices when hiring a wallpaper contractor. You should get quotes from two or three different companies under the exact same conditions and make sure their proposed scope of work and materials are comparable.
- Do they provide an estimate after visiting the site, or are they giving you a price over the phone?
- Do they explain the materials they plan to use and the order of installation?
- Do they clearly state how they will protect your belongings, clean up, and handle any potential defects?
- Do they give you a specific timeline and detailed work schedule?
Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring and Wallpapering
How long does flooring and wallpaper installation usually take?
It really depends on the size of your home, how much demolition is needed, and the type of wallpaper you choose. The most reliable way to know the exact timeline is to have a professional visit your site. Also, make sure to factor in the time required for the wallpaper to dry into your schedule.
Do I have to follow a strict order when doing flooring and wallpaper?
Generally, the safest sequence is demolition, floor preparation, wallpaper, and finally the flooring. However, depending on the condition of your home or the materials you select, this order might be adjusted. It's best to agree on the process with your contractor beforehand.
Are there ways to lower the cost of apartment wallpapering?
You can try partial wallpapering instead of doing the whole place, or you can choose materials that are appropriate for the specific use of the area. Just remember, if you go only for the cheapest option and sacrifice material quality, you could run into issues later, so find a good balance.
Wrap Up: What Should I Do Next?
Take a moment to jot down the current state of your home. If you list details like the square footage, what materials need to be removed, the type of wallpaper, and when you can have the work done, you can request quotes from contractors with the exact same conditions. Organizing this information into a comparison chart will make it much clearer which contractor is the right fit for you.