Frequently Asked Questions

What tools will I need to complete the job?
Plumb bob, snap slade knife with new blade, straight edge, smoother, size, sponge, water bath for pre-pasted papers, "Pink Paste" for paste the wall papers, plus a long haired roller sleeve and roller for applying size and paste to the walls.

What do I need to do to prepare bare Gib Board for wallpapering?
Apply one coat of Designa Pigmented Sealer. Once dry, give the wall a light sand, dust off and then apply one coat of size.

Do I need to apply a size?
Yes. This helps to move the pasted paper over the surface of the wall, preventing stretching and tearing of the paper. It also makes removal of the wallpaper easier. Note that size is only active for 3 - 5 days after application, so only size the walls as you intend to paper them, and ensure the size is completely dry before starting to hang paper.

How do I know how much paper to order?
This depends on the height of your room and the pattern repeat on the paper. Please see the "Guide to Wallpapering" section for an approximate idea.

How long does pre-pasted wallpaper need to rest before hanging?
This is dependant on the weight of the paper - any where from 2 minutes, to 20 minutes for very heavy papers. Read the instructions on the wallpaper roll - this will guide you in the right direction. If you are unsure, contact your local Colourplus specialist.

What does "booking" mean?
This is the resting process for pasted papers prior to hanging. It involves folding the ends of the length of paper into the middle, paste sides together. This allows the paper to rest until the vinyl and backing have both expanded fully.

What is a non-woven backing?
This is the new generation of wallpaper, the special non-woven backing does not expand at all, so paste can be applied directly to the wall, allowing you to hang your paper dry. It is quicker with less mess, and does not create problems with "opening" joins.

I get mildew in my home. How can I treat this in order to prevent it spoiling my new wallpaper?
Use a moss and mould kill product like Colourplus Green Clean to wash the walls, effectively killing and treating any moss or mould present. Apply one coat of Designa Pigmented Sealer to the wall. When dry, sand lightly and dust off. Use an anti-mould paste (most pastes now contain mould inhibitors). Ensure the room can dry naturally (not too wet, cold or humid) within a couple of days of hanging. DO NOT ARTIFICIALLY DRY THE WALLS. As an extra measure a cost of Colourplus Diamondshield will act as a barrier over the paper to prevent mould spores settling on the surface in wet or damp areas.

What do the symbols on the wallpaper rolls mean?
Below is a description of each of the symbols found on wallpaper rolls.