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Question:  I am considering using wall paper - can you advise?

Ans:

Wall-covering optionWALL PAPER  

There are many types of wallpaper and the criteria for choice should include the function of the room and its aesthetics.  Of-course budget too.  Wallpaper could be cheaper than paint and then again could be very expensive, depending on the quality.  I would suggest going for manufacturers of repute and following manufacturer’s instructions for hanging and maintaining the wallpaper.  It is also important, especially here in Doha, to consider the extreme temperatures.  If you go on summer holidays and close up you AC and home for months – the heat and humidity may do some damage.  So make sure to ask your supplier about this and maintenance techniques.

Wallpaper types include – paper, paper/plastic combination, vinyl and then the more expensive fragile hand-made, hand-painted types, exotic fabrics, flocks and textured grass cloths.

For hanging wallpaper you need to consider the surface you are going to cover and then you may need to use;

• Sizing paste – necessary to prepare the surface and seal it and provide a bonding underlay for the wallpaper.
• The appropriate adhesive.
• Lining/backing – if needed.

The number of rolls depends on the size of the room – length, width and height;  and the dimensions of the rolls.  The number of rolls is also affected by the size of the print and the pattern because joining the seams needs to be precise.  It is always a good idea to buy more because wastage will occur as the paper is cut and seams joined.

Using the services of a professional is advisable as they can help you in the choice of wallpaper as well as the number of rolls you would need of the particular type you choose.

 TIP:  please go the extra mile and choose eco-friendly wallpaper and accessories.  Keep in mind that indoor pollution that results from interior finishings affects your health and is one of the main causes of allergies.  Also know that some synthetic materials continue to produce toxic gases into your interior spaces.  You could choose to use wall-paper made from natural materials (eco-friendly raw materials and manufacturing processes), natural dyes and colours and opt for lignin as the adhesive.