Vinyl wallpaper is popular because it is strong, washable and stylish, but it also has points to consider such as ease of hanging, price and breathability. In this article you can clearly read the pros and cons of vinyl wallpaper, plus practical tips to decide whether it is the best choice for your space.
What is vinyl wallpaper?
Vinyl wallpaper consists of a plastic top layer (PVC) on a paper or non-woven backing. That top layer makes the wallpaper very hard-wearing, splash-resistant and easy to clean. You roughly come across two variants: flat vinyl (compact, dense top layer, ideal for kitchens and powder rooms) and foam vinyl or expanded vinyl (slightly thicker and leveling, nice for camouflaging small imperfections). Many premium collections, such as those from Hooked on Walls and Arte Contract, combine rich textures with contract-grade specifications for intensive use. Want more background? Take a look at the different wallpaper materials.
Advantages of vinyl wallpaper
- Water-resistant and washable: The dense PVC top layer can handle splashing water and can easily be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth. Flat vinyl performs best in damp rooms such as the kitchen or powder room. Also see washable kitchen wallpaper and moisture-resistant bathroom wallpaper.
- Extra strong and hard-wearing: Vinyl is scratch- and impact-resistant, which makes it ideal for busy rooms such as the hallway and living room, but also for the contract market where durability counts.
- Leveling ability: Foam vinyl helps visually hide small imperfections and gives nice, full coverage on the wall.
- Luxurious look and lots of choice: From linen textures and tadelakt looks to subtle reliefs and plain designs: you will always find a style that suits your interior.
- Slight sound dampening: Because of its thickness and texture, vinyl absorbs part of the sound, which can slightly improve the acoustics in sleeker, echoey rooms.
Disadvantages of vinyl wallpaper
- Harder to hang: The strips are thicker and heavier, so cutting tight and closing seams need more attention. The right glue and method are important for a perfect result.
- Harder to remove: The top layer often comes off first and the backing can stay behind. Allow extra time to soak or scrape old layers. Practical tips and tools for removing wallpaper will help you get started.
- Higher price level: Vinyl is generally more expensive than paper or basic non-woven wallpaper, although it pays for itself through its long life and ease of care.
- Less breathable and less eco-friendly: The PVC top layer restricts vapor and is hard to recycle. Ventilation is important, especially on moisture-sensitive walls.
Hanging, care and smart tips
Choose a suitable glue for vinyl or heavy types of wallpaper, for example wallpaper glue for (heavy) vinyl wallpaper, and follow the brand's instructions. Check whether your wallpaper has a non-woven backing (often glue on the wall) or whether you need to paste the strips. Work with two people, let the rolls acclimatize, and number the strips with patterned wallpaper. For care, a soft cloth with a mild cleaner is usually enough. In wet zones such as showers, direct contact with water on seams is not advisable; always make sure there is good ventilation and a suitable primer.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, vinyl wallpaper or non-woven wallpaper?
That depends on your situation. You choose vinyl wallpaper for durability, washability and splash resistance, ideal in intensively used or damp rooms. Non-woven wallpaper excels in ease of hanging, breathability and often a lower price. Decide which matters more to you.
Is vinyl wallpaper sound-absorbing?
Vinyl offers slight sound absorption thanks to the thicker, sometimes relief-rich top layer. You notice the gain mainly in rooms with hard materials. Don't expect a big acoustic leap: for serious dampening, special acoustic materials are needed.
Can you paint over vinyl wallpaper?
Yes, a lot of vinyl wallpaper is paintable, especially variants with a sturdy texture. Use a suitable primer and test on a small piece first. Note that plasticizers can affect the end result: always check the paint specifications.
Ready to choose? Discover the extensive collection of vinyl wallpaper at behang.nl, including premium brands such as Hooked on Walls and Arte Contract. We also deliver wallpaper glue and tools, and deliver free from €99. Need personal advice? Our customer service is happy to help.
