Finishing attics and lofts: part 4 – do I need to prime the walls before gluing wallpaper

Every little detail counts when finishing attics and lofts, particularly when getting the walls ready for wallpaper. A frequently asked question is if priming the walls prior to wallpaper application is actually necessary. Although this step may seem like an extra task, it can really make a big difference in the outcome.

In order to provide a level, smooth surface that enhances wallpaper adhesion and extends its lifespan, priming is frequently advised. Without it, you may experience problems with peeling or uneven texture, which can completely destroy the look of your freshly decorated area.

In this installment of our attic and loft finishing series, we’ll look at the potential benefits of priming before wallpapering as well as the potential consequences of skipping it. Gaining an elegant, business-like appearance in your attic or loft can be accomplished by being aware of these factors.

Primer, and again primer

Therefore, is priming the wall necessary before applying wallpaper?

The condition of the base and the material from which it is made determine whether or not this procedure is necessary, which may shock a lot of readers at this point. Whatever the case, wallpapering a primed wall will be far faster and more comfortable than doing so on an untreated base. But let’s approach things sequentially.

Inspection of the surface to be wallpapered

Which surfaces need to be primed? Primers are required for all bases made of highly absorbent, porous materials like gypsum or concrete. Such treatment is not necessary for materials that do not absorb water, such as oil-painted walls.

If you read the previous article, you are likely aware that after the sanding stage, we were left with the walls and ceiling. Following this process, the putty plasterboard is entirely covered in dust. If wallpaper is applied to an unprepared surface, some areas will not adhere well to the wallpaper, necessitating additional lubrication.

In other words, wallpaper can be glued without primer and still hold firmly, but it will take a lot longer than gluing primed walls, as you already know.

What additional annoyances will the absence of primer cause?

• When applying glue to the wall surface, moisture from it will be transferred to the base too quickly. As a result, the glue layer quickly becomes thinner and loses its properties.
• When applying wallpaper to such a layer, you are unlikely to have time to accurately install and smooth it out. This problem especially concerns gluing non-woven wallpaper, the base of which is not pre-coated.
• Consequently, you will have to peel off part of the canvas to coat the dried wall again, which can cause the wallpaper to deform.
• Such wallpaper has a harder time bringing the seams together, and cheaper options can even tear.

Counseling! Act rationally and make the task at hand simpler. Refuse to use a primer only when it won’t impede the work’s advancement.

Priming process

Apply two or three coats of primer to the putty walls. Deep penetration primers are applied to the first layers, and wallpaper glue liquid solutions are made for the final layer.

Reducing the amount of moisture that the wall absorbs is the primer’s primary goal. Following this, the coating’s adhesion greatly increases and its subsequent processing becomes much simpler.

• Use a roller to apply the primer.
• There should be enough of the composition so that it literally flows down.
• Do not skimp on the material, and do not roll out a once-wet roller for too long.
• Go through the entire room and return to the beginning. Evaluate the degree of absorption of the surface by eye.
• If it has already completely absorbed the primer by this time (5 – 10 minutes, from the moment of application), then start going over the entire area again.
• If the walls retain traces of moisture, then you can finish applying the starting layers.

As each composition is unique and has its own characteristics, you don’t need to know exactly how long the primer dries before gluing the wallpaper. There are just no clear values. After a few hours, remove the surface and assess the drying visually. The walls ought to be completely dry and not at all damp.

You can now begin applying the final primer layer. For these uses, you can either buy a specific mixture that works well with any kind of wallpaper separately or create your own by diluting wallpaper glue according to the package’s instructions (usually doubling the amount of water).

Adhesion to the surface will also be enhanced by priming the walls before applying glue to the wallpaper. Instead of penetrating the wall deeply like the preceding layers did, this one leaves a thin layer that, when it comes into contact with fresh moisture, regains its adhesive qualities.

The glue is rolled onto the walls, much like deep penetration primer. This application technique, in contrast to a brush, will produce a layer that is thinner and more even. After processing, give the walls a few hours or, for best results, overnight to dry.

Counseling! For processing the inner corners of the room and for applying the wallpaper to the seams and end edges, a brush works best.

For a smooth and long-lasting finish, priming walls in attics and lofts is essential before applying wallpaper. It smooths the surface, improves wallpaper adhesion, and guards against future problems like peeling or bubbling. Ignoring this step can cause issues, particularly in areas with frequent temperature and humidity fluctuations like attics. Your wallpapering endeavors will look more polished and last longer if you prime.

In attics and lofts, priming the walls prior to wallpaper application is an important step that shouldn’t be skipped. The smoother surface produced by this process aids in the wallpaper’s improved adhesion and longer lifespan. Primers also lessen the possibility of moisture damage by sealing the wall, which is crucial in spaces like attics that may be more prone to moisture.

Although skipping primer might seem like a time-saving option, it can cause issues later on. Direct wallpaper application on unprimed walls can cause peeling or bubbling, particularly in areas with high humidity. Primers also aid in hiding stains and discolorations, giving your wallpaper a clean canvas and guaranteeing a polished and expert appearance in the end.

In conclusion, even though it could be tempting to skip this step, priming the walls before applying wallpaper is a quick and easy way to make a big difference in the final product’s durability and appearance. It’s an easy step that can prevent future problems and guarantee that your loft or attic will continue to look great for many years to come.

Video on the topic

PRIMER! WHEN TO PRIMER WALLS? Preparation for pasting fiberglass / glass wallpaper

How to prime walls before pasting wallpaper

Attic design

2/Myself. Painted the slopes. Priming the walls before wallpapering. DIY repair.

Preparing walls for wallpaper. Putty, plaster, sanding, priming.