Fixing wallpaper on a wall often involves repairing areas that have lifted, peeled, or developed open seams.
When wallpaper starts to lift, peel, or bubble, it's usually due to insufficient adhesive or changes in humidity and temperature. "Fixing" the wallpaper typically means re-adhering these loose sections to the wall.
How to Fix Lifting or Peeling Wallpaper
Repairing lifting wallpaper involves carefully reapplying adhesive to the affected area and pressing the wallpaper back into place.
Tools and Materials
- Wallpaper seam adhesive (specifically designed for repairs)
- Small brush or syringe for applying adhesive
- Clean, damp sponge or cloth
- Wallpaper roller or clean, dry cloth
- Optional: Craft knife or razor for trimming loose edges
Step-by-Step Repair Process
- Prepare the Area: Gently lift the loose section of wallpaper further if needed, but avoid tearing it. Clean the wall area underneath and the back of the wallpaper with a slightly damp sponge if there's any old adhesive residue or debris. Let it dry slightly.
- Apply Adhesive: Apply a small amount of wallpaper seam adhesive to the wall area behind the loose wallpaper and/or to the back of the wallpaper itself.
- Important Note: As highlighted in the provided reference clip, you don't want to go and stick the adhesive tube right in it because it could rip the wallpaper. The nozzle is quite thick. Instead, use a small brush, syringe, or carefully apply a bead near the edge and spread it. This prevents damage, especially to delicate or older wallpaper.
- Press Wallpaper Back: Carefully press the loose wallpaper section back against the wall.
- Smooth Out Bubbles: Use a clean wallpaper roller or a clean, dry cloth to smooth out any air bubbles, working from the center of the repaired area towards the edges. This also helps press the adhesive firmly against the wall.
- Clean Excess Adhesive: Immediately wipe away any excess adhesive that squeezes out from the seams or edges with a clean, damp sponge or cloth.
- Allow to Dry: Let the repaired area dry completely according to the adhesive manufacturer's instructions. Avoid touching or disturbing the area while it dries.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Small Bubbles: Sometimes small bubbles remain. These may shrink as the adhesive dries. If not, you can carefully slice the bubble with a craft knife and inject a small amount of adhesive before smoothing.
- Torn Edges: If the edge is slightly torn, you can try to align it as best as possible. For larger tears or missing pieces, patching might be necessary, which is a more advanced repair.
- Stubborn Peeling: If a large area is peeling, you may need to use more adhesive and work in smaller sections.
Summary Table: Quick Fix Steps
| Step | Action | Key Point |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Preparation | Gently lift loose paper, clean wall/paper back. | Avoid tearing; ensure surfaces are clean. |
| 2. Apply Adhesive | Apply adhesive to wall/paper back. | Do not stick thick tube nozzle directly into seam (risk of tearing). |
| 3. Press Back | Carefully press the loose section onto the wall. | Align edges accurately. |
| 4. Smooth | Use roller or cloth to remove bubbles and ensure contact. | Work from center outwards. |
| 5. Clean Up | Immediately wipe away excess adhesive. | Prevents staining or sticky residue. |
| 6. Dry | Allow area to dry completely. | Follow adhesive instructions. |
By following these steps and being careful with adhesive application, you can effectively fix many common wallpaper issues and restore the look of your wall covering.
