Curling edges

It is important for the installer to book the strip (fold paste side to paste side) immediately following the pasting process. If the installer is slow in applying the paste, he/she/they should apply the paste to the centre of the strip before the edges. This technique will help prevent the edges from curling too fast before it can be booked (folded together).

Once the material has been booked, it should be rolled in a manner similar to a rolled newspaper, being careful to avoid creasing the folds. This technique will not only hold the edges together, but will also prevent the edges from drying out during the soaking or relaxing process.

Edge curl during installation is generally because of improper surface preparation and/or the wrong adhesive being used, or incorrect soaking time. Make sure the surface is properly sealed, sanded, dusted and sized and that the appropriate adhesive is being used.

Too much moisture may cause edges to curl, or allow the adhesive to penetrate the backing of vinyl coated wallcovering and stain the decorative surface. Too much moisture stops adhesion at the seams which may cause the installer to use a seam roller which will only compound the problem.

If a seam curls during installation some will apply more paste to the seam area. However, this will again compound the problem by adding more moisture, which in turn will delay the drying of the seam causing it to dry last. This can cause the seam to open during the drying process.

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Thank you to Aspiring Walls for providing the information for this quick reference guide.

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