Why Does Wallpaper Stay Up? A Comprehensive Guide to Adhesives and Removal
Have you ever wondered how wallpaper manages to cling to a wall after being applied? The answer lies in the type of adhesive used in the process. Wallpapers can stay up for years with the help of various adhesives, and each type of adhesive has its own characteristics and applications.
The Basics of Wallpaper Adhesives
Wallpaper adhesives are primarily water-soluble, which means they can be easily dissolved by water. When applying wallpaper, the adhesive on the back of the paper is activated by water, allowing it to stick to the wall. Once the wallpaper is in place, the excess moisture evaporates, leaving a strong but flexible bond between the paper and the wall.
These adhesives are effective because they create a strong yet temporary bond that can be easily reversed if needed. This is why wallpaper can be removed by simply steaming or using wallpaper strippers, which effectively dissolve the adhesive and release the paper from the wall.
Historical Adhesives: Wheat Paste
Interestingly, some historic wallpapers were secured with wheat paste, a natural adhesive made from ground wheat kernels. Wheat paste was used in homes built in the 19th and early 20th centuries. This type of adhesive was less durable than modern alternatives but was still effective in holding wallpaper to plaster walls.
Historic wheat paste wallpaper is often found in homes dating back to the 1800s and early 1900s. These wallpapers can still be in excellent condition if the underlying plaster walls are structurally sound. In such cases, you can apply skim coats or spray texture over the wallpaper without causing damage. However, it is strongly advised not to attempt this with modern wallpaper, as moisture from mud or other adhesives can cause the wallpaper to bubble and detach from the wall.
Removing Wallpaper: The Proper Techniques
When it comes to removing wallpaper, you have a few options. The most effective methods include using a steamer or wallpaper stripper. Steamers can help to break down the adhesive, making the wallpaper easier to remove. Wallpaper strippers, on the other hand, are solutions specifically designed to dissolve wallpaper adhesives.
For older homes built around the 1900s, the chances are high that the wallpaper was secured with wheat paste. While this type of paste is not toxic, it can be challenging to remove without damaging the wallpaper or the underlying wall. In such cases, it is best to consult a professional for the safest and most effective removal methods.
Wallpaper Paste: The Essentials
For those who prefer to hang their own wallpaper, purchasing a dedicated wallpaper paste from your local home improvement store is highly recommended. These specialized pastes are designed to work with different types of wallpaper and provide a strong, yet easily removable, bond.
Wallpaper paste is typically applied to the back of the wallpaper before pressing it to the wall. This paste forms a tough yet flexible bond that ensures the wallpaper stays up and resists peeling or wrinkling. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to achieve the best results.
Conclusion
The key to understanding how wallpaper stays up lies in the type of adhesive used. Wallpaper adhesives are designed to create a strong, yet temporary bond that can be easily reversed when needed. Whether you are hanging or removing wallpaper, knowing the proper techniques and using the right adhesives can make the process smoother and more effective. If you find yourself in need of wallpaper removal, don't hesitate to consult a professional to ensure a successful and damage-free outcome.