The right glue for photo wallpaper depends on the wallpaper material and the wall surface. Choose wrong and you get open seams or visible stains. Below you will read exactly which wallpaper glue to use for each type of photo wallpaper, how to prepare the wall surface properly and how to hang it neatly without hassle. Also take a look at the range of wallpaper glue for photo wallpaper.
Choosing the best glue for each type of photo wallpaper
Photo wallpaper: which glue do you choose? The answer differs per backing. Always follow the instructions of your wallpaper supplier, but use these guidelines as a reference. Want to know the basics? Read What is photo wallpaper?.
- Non-woven photo wallpaper: use non-woven wallpaper glue. Apply the glue to the wall. The advantage is that you can still correct strips briefly and that no soaking time is needed (see also what is non-woven wallpaper).
- Paper photo wallpaper: choose wallpaper paste for paper. Apply the glue to the wallpaper and let it soak in for 3-5 minutes. Work evenly to prevent bumps.
- Vinyl on paper or textile backing: go for extra strong vinyl wallpaper glue. It gives more initial grab and prevents seam shrinkage.
- Textile or other heavy wall coverings: use a powerful dispersion glue with high tack, suitable for heavy materials.
- Self-adhesive photo wallpaper or peel-and-stick: no separate glue is needed here, but a perfect, grease-free wall surface is crucial.
Wondering which glue to use for Airtex wallpaper? Choose a high-quality dispersion glue with high initial grab that is suitable for seamless textile or polyester wall material. Apply the glue evenly with a pile roller and work one strip width at a time to prevent it from drying out.
Preparing the wall surface for photo wallpaper
With good preparation you hang it neatly faster and avoid show-through or loose edges. The wall must be dry, smooth, clean, load-bearing and evenly absorbent. Do a wall surface check in Wallpaper materials and wall surfaces. Here is what to do in each situation:
- Absorbent or powdery wall surfaces: prime with a suitable primer so the glue does not get pulled away too fast. Test with your hand after drying: no dust should come off.
- New plaster and plasterboard: let dry completely. Fill seams and screw holes, sand flat and apply a primer. With light non-woven prints, use a light or white wall surface to prevent show-through.
- Painted walls: degrease and sand to a matte finish. Dull glossy latex first. Remove poorly adhering paint completely. Repair cracks with filler and sand smooth.
- Color- and stain-sensitive wall surfaces: even out the color with an opaque wall paint or pigment primer, especially with thin paper or light non-woven wallpaper.
- Climate: work at 18-22 degrees, without drafts or direct sun. Close windows during hanging and drying to prevent drying too fast.
- Guide lines: set a vertical guide line with a spirit level or laser for the first strip. Draw thin and subtle to avoid show-through.
On wood, MDF and plywood
Which wallpaper glue for wood? Wood is very absorbent and sensitive to movement. Degrease, sand and remove dust. Seal with a suitable primer until the surface absorbs evenly. For non-woven photo wallpaper you use non-woven wallpaper glue on the wall. For heavy or seamless materials such as Airtex, a powerful dispersion glue is recommended. Work in thin, even layers and give the edges a little extra glue.
How to hang photo wallpaper without hassle
Want to see it step by step? Take a look at the wallpaper hanging instruction videos.
- Check and plan: check the strip order and the image. If needed, trim off the matching edges according to the instructions.
- Apply the glue: with non-woven you paste the wall, with paper you paste the wallpaper and respect the soaking time. Apply the glue evenly: not too thick, extra at edges and corners.
- Align and place: start on your guide line. Place the first strip calmly, press lightly and correct right away if needed.
- Smooth: work the air out with a smoothing tool from the middle to the edges. Roll the seams with a seam roller, without pressing the glue out.
- Close the seams: with non-woven you butt the strips together, no overlapping. With some paper or textile types a slight overlap may be allowed: follow the packaging.
- Clean and finish: remove glue residue right away with a clean, slightly damp sponge. Trim excess material along the ceiling and baseboard with a sharp knife. Let dry at room temperature, avoid drafts.
Frequently asked questions
How do you hang photo wallpaper?
Prepare the wall, set a level guide line and apply the right glue. Non-woven: glue on the wall. Paper: glue on the wallpaper and let it soak in. Place strip by strip, rub the air out, butt the seams together and remove glue residue right away.
Which glue works best for photos?
If you mean loose photo prints, use photo tape or spray glue for paper on suitable surfaces. For photo wallpaper on the wall, always choose wallpaper glue that suits the material: non-woven glue for non-woven, vinyl glue for vinyl and dispersion glue for heavier or seamless materials.
What do you need for photo wallpaper?
- Suitable wallpaper glue for your type of photo wallpaper
- Pile roller and brush, smoothing tool and seam roller (see wallpapering tools and accessories)
- Spirit level or laser, sharp knife and ruler
- Clean sponge and bucket, filler and sandpaper
- Primer for absorbent wall surfaces
Not sure which wallpaper glue for photo wallpaper is best in your situation, or want to be certain which glue for Airtex wallpaper suits your wall? Contact the customer service of behang.nl for personal advice.
