There are a few different types of wallpapers that require wallpaper paste or glue.
The Wallpapers that can require a wallpaper glue can be either: unpasted, non woven or prepasted.
Unpasted wallpapers are usually made with a paper base meaning that the wallpaper glue is applied to the back of the wallpaper.
Non Woven wallpapers are usually made with a non woven and non shrinkable material that has the paste applied to the wall surface rather than the back of the wallpaper.
Prepasted wallpapers usually have their own glue embedded in the paper and rely on water to activate the glue. Water can be applied by spraying or in some traditional wallpapers, running through a water in a wallpaper trough.
Wallpaper glues come ready mixed and in powder form. Some of the heavier duty commercial type wallpapers will require a ready mixed glue and other lighter weight wallpapers will successfully be installed using one of the powder glues.
We always suggest that you refer to the manufacturers recommendations when applying the wallpaper.
You can read more here about how to hang wallpaper
Can I Paint Over Wallpaper?
Some wallpapers are made for painting over and others should be removed prior to painting. If wallpaper will not come off the wall and is not lifting at the seams, and in good condition, we would suggest sanding the wall first and applying an undercoat to assist adhesion. Using an undercoat first will also cover the colour. You can then apply your chosen wall paint. If in doubt, ask us.
Can I Paint Over Tiles?
Yes you can but with the correct products and with proper preparation. We would suggest speaking with our team about the steps to take and the products to use. Adhesion of the undercoats are imperative for a succesful result. Ask us!
How Do I Check If I Have Water Based or Oil Based Paint On My Surfaces?
Grab some Methylated Spirits (Metho) and using a clean cloth, wet the cloth with metho and rub the surface. If you can rub some of the paint off that means it's water based. If you can't then it means it is oil based. If you can't get a result, then as our Crocker's saying goes: "When in doubt, undercoat it!"
Do I Need To Clean Mould Off Before I paint?
Yes you do. Mould is unhealthy for the paint and for us humans as well so it must go! Bleach can whiten the surface but it doesn't kill mould spores. We will recommend a mould killer that will kill the mould overnight. The mould can then be removed by rinsing. If mould stains are still present we might suggest you undercoat with an oil based undercoat before applying your top coat. Bring in some photos and ask us!
