Lapped seams

From the wallpaper problem solver - quick reference guide

Most overlapped seams fail to adhere properly because the decorative surface contains a vinyl layer.

Conventional wallcovering adhesives are not designed to bond vinyl to vinyl, so this can lead to a potential failure. Therefore, a specific vinyl to vinyl adhesive must be used in those situations. Shur-Stik© Stick Down and Shur-Stik© Border Adhesive Paste are specifically designed for use in this circumstance. They contain special resins which permit a strong bond between the layers.

How to ensure lapped wallpaper seams adhere properly

Since overlapped seams are generally not as aesthetically pleasing as a smooth butt seam, they should be avoided as much as possible. One technique used to eliminate such seams is double cutting a.k.a. splicing. This simply requires the installer to lay one surface over the other and with a very sharp disposable blade knife, cut with one movement through both layers of wallcoverings. Then, remove the excess and join the new edges together to form a new butt seam.

This technique can only be used with plain papers and designs that require no matching at all.

Caution: When using vinyl to vinyl adhesive, be sure to immediately wipe off adhesive on the decorative side of the wallcovering using a damp cloth. This is vital because once it dries it turns very shiny on the surface of the wallcovering and is almost impossible to remove.

Wallpaper problem solver

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

Wallpaper problem solver topics Ask an Expert How to wallpaper

Resene Paints Ltd – www.resene.com