Wallpaper Installation Costs & Tips You Need to Know
Paper wallpaper, which is installed by layering natural pulp paper, is the go-to choice when you want to tidy up a space without breaking the bank. In this post, we're diving into the actual installation process, the cost breakdown, and all the conditions you absolutely need to check before starting the job.
What You Need to Know About Paper Wallpaper Before Installing It
This material, sometimes called 'ji-sa wallpaper,' is eco-friendly because it doesn't have a PVC coating like silk wallpaper. However, since it's installed by overlapping strips, you might notice slight seams or uneven edges. Because the paper is narrow (53cm wide) and thin, any bumps or imperfections on your wall will show through. So, if your walls aren't in great shape, you'll need to do some extra prep work for a smooth finish.
The final look of a room heavily depends on the foundational work, especially if your walls aren't perfectly flat. The extra time and cost can change based on how well the old wallpaper is removed and how level the cement plaster is. A thorough site inspection is a must. This is especially true for older apartments or villas, where you can expect a lot of uneven surfaces that will need pre-repair.
| Category | Silk Wallpaper | Paper Wallpaper | Paint Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material Cost (per Pyeong) | 8,000 KRW | 3,000 KRW | 15,000 KRW |
| Labor Cost (Per Person/Day) | 250,000 KRW | 230,000 KRW | 300,000 KRW |
| Installation Method | Butt Joint Installation | Overlapping Installation | Roller and Spray Application |
| Lifespan | 5+ Years | Around 3 Years | Around 2 Years |
Pre-Painting Prep: How to Handle Wall Imperfections and Basic Work
If your walls have dips, cracks, or uneven spots, you absolutely need to use plaster or joint compound to smooth everything out. Skipping this putty step means any flaws will show right through the thin wallpaper, seriously dropping the quality of your finished look. Since this needs time to dry, the rule of thumb is to get it done the day before.
If you're dealing with mold, just slapping new material over it won't fix the problem. For mold-ridden walls, you have to completely scrape away the existing contamination, apply a waterproof sealant, and then install a specialized blocking underlay to prevent it from coming back. If you don't address the source of leaks or condensation, your wallpaper will be stained again within months.
Standard Installation Steps for Moisture and Insulation
To keep defect rates low, on-site workers need to follow a consistent standard manual for the entire process. Even with skilled professionals, the job from initial prep to final finish often takes at least two days.
- Remove old wallpaper and properly bag all debris.
- Fill cracks in the walls with putty and sand the surfaces smooth.
- Prepare the base layer by applying the initial underlay.
- Apply adhesive and hang the wallpaper, ensuring it's straight and secure.
- Wipe away excess paste and confirm it has dried naturally.
Smart Wallpaper Strategies Based on Your Space
To make the best use of your budget, you need to tailor the installation method to the room's purpose and how long you plan to live there. For example, if you're renting the space, you might opt for a budget-friendly wallpaper method to keep costs down. For your primary living area, you might choose different materials for the living room versus the bedrooms. Keep in mind that ceiling work is tough because you have to work upside down, which tires your neck and arms quickly, making it slower and usually more expensive than wall work.
There are three main factors that determine a fair wallpaper price: whether you need to tear down the old wallpaper, the total square footage, and the height of the room. If you have an open-concept living room or a loft, you'll need extra equipment like scaffolding or ladders compared to a standard apartment layout, which will change the estimate.
What to Do When Repairing Flooring and Finishing Touches
When you're working on the walls, you need to tackle the seams with your flooring or any areas where the old floor covering is ripped. Taking care of these spots alongside the wall work really boosts the overall look. Flooring repairs are usually done during the final finishing stage of the wallpaper installation, often using silicone or welding techniques. You have to carefully plan the order of operations to make sure the floor doesn't get dirtied or scratched while you're hanging the paper.
If you decide to try DIY wallpaper, you can save on material costs, but be prepared: it can take three times longer than a pro, and you're much more likely to get seams that pop. For beginners, a realistic starting point is either choosing pre-pasted, ready-to-use paper or just tackling one small room.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wallpapering
Why are there bumpy spots after installation? When will they smooth out?
When the paste dries, the paper absorbs moisture, which can cause it to look wavy. However, it usually smooth out naturally after about three to seven days at room temperature. Don't rush things by opening windows wide to force it dry, as that could cause the paper to tear; letting it dry naturally is key.
What if the seams come apart or the paste fails later?
If seams start separating within a year of installation, it's usually covered under the warranty, so you can contact the installation team to request a partial repair. Trying to fix it yourself might end up damaging the surrounding wallpaper, so it's safer to call a professional and just use a small amount of specialized paste.
Can I just put new wallpaper over the old one without removing it?
If your current wallpaper isn't peeling or is firmly stuck to the wall, you can layer it over the existing surface. However, if you build up too much thickness, the trim around outlets and light switches can look messy. If the area is heavily stained or has multiple layers, you absolutely must strip it all down and start fresh.
When comparing quotes, don't just look at the total cost. Make sure they clearly include demolition fees and trash removal costs so you don't get hit with surprise charges later.