Let”s consider how vinyl wallpaper differs from paper

There are vinyl and paper options to consider when selecting wallpaper for your home. Both are well-liked, but they have different uses and special advantages. Making an informed decision can be aided by your understanding of these distinctions.

Vinyl wallpaper is a fantastic option for spaces like kitchens and bathrooms because of its reputation for strength and resistance to moisture. Conversely, paper wallpaper comes in a variety of designs and is frequently less expensive; however, it might not endure as well in humid settings.

We’ll go over the main distinctions between vinyl and paper wallpaper in this post so you can choose the one that best fits your requirements and aesthetic tastes.

What types of wallpaper are there

It is simple to become perplexed by the wide range of wallpaper options available on the contemporary building and finishing materials market, particularly when friends and acquaintances have drastically different viewpoints on the matter.

First, let’s discuss the various types of modern wallpaper available:

  • Vinyl.
  • Vinyl on a non-woven base.
  • Non-woven.
  • Paper.
  • Paper on a non-woven base.

More uncommon varieties exist as well:

As you can see, the primary distinction is the wallpaper’s top layer, which also determines how long-lasting and high-quality the apartment’s remodeling will be. While selecting, it is important to keep in mind the room’s intended use, as paper and non-woven fabrics are known to absorb all types of smells perfectly, but they also do not handle moisture well. In contrast, polyvinyl chloride cannot "breathe" because it is totally neutral toward water.

There is also a widespread belief regarding vinyl’s detrimental effects on human health. Let’s state up front that this is untrue and that active chemicals are not present in contemporary vinyl. Naturally, there are a lot of limitations on using this material, particularly in children’s rooms or bedrooms, so in this case, you really need to pay close attention to the material’s quality and the manufacturer’s name.

Crucial! Vinyl wallpapers are a common target for counterfeiting because of their popularity, so you should always ask the seller to provide quality certificates and proof of compliance with standards. You should consider shopping at another store if the seller is unable to provide all required documentation.

When it comes to the techniques of adhering, the technology is the same whether the wallpaper is made of vinyl or paper. They are glued to the wall after the glue is put straight to the wallpaper. The sole distinction is that paper can be glued right away, but vinyl wallpaper needs to soak in glue for three to five minutes.

Should you choose to apply the wallpaper yourself, you can view a video that provides detailed instructions for clarity.

Vinyl wallpaper

Vinyl wallpaper, in contrast to most other types, can be glued even in humid, constantly-changing environments like kitchens and bathrooms because it is completely resistant to moisture.

However, since neutrality to moisture can also operate in the opposite way—that is, vinyl wallpaper not only prevents moisture from penetrating beneath its surface but also from releasing accumulated condensate to the exterior—this characteristic frequently ends up being the most significant drawback.

Though they are not ideal because they cannot be glued in bathrooms, some manufacturers have partially solved this issue today and started producing so-called perforated vinyl wallpaper, which has a porous structure, or tiny holes through which moisture can penetrate to the outside.

Advantages

  • Do not fade in the sun.
  • Do not have shrinkage deformation.
  • Poorly susceptible to mechanical damage.
  • Resistant to moisture.
  • Not afraid of even the strongest detergents.
  • Do not absorb odors.
  • A very large selection of patterns, including volumetric ones.
  • The dense structure of the wallpaper can hide the unevenness and flaws of the base to which they are glued.

Disadvantages

  • When burning, they emit toxic fumes that are harmful to health.
  • Poor quality vinyl wallpaper can emit an unpleasant plastic smell that is almost impossible to remove.
  • Relatively difficult gluing process.

As you can see, the good aspects outweigh the bad, and most customers base their decision between vinyl and paper wallpaper on these factors.

Paper wallpaper offers a more conventional, breathable option that’s frequently easier to apply and remove, making it ideal for those who prefer simplicity and change. Vinyl wallpaper, on the other hand, differs from paper in durability, moisture resistance, and ease of cleaning, making it a more practical choice for areas prone to wear and tear.

Paper wallpaper

This kind of wall décor is something that many of us have grown up with. The only option available to paint walls a few decades ago was paper wallpaper, and many people will undoubtedly recall the faded or partially torn pieces of wallpaper, like those in the picture.

Although contemporary paper wallpaper is much more durable and less prone to tearing or scratching, paper is still paper, with all the benefits and drawbacks that go along with it.

Advantages

  • Paper is an environmentally friendly and harmless material.
  • The wallpaper is easy and quick to stick, and its light weight allows it to be used on the ceiling.
  • Relatively low price.

Sadly, this is where the advantages of paper wallpaper stop, though frequently they are sufficient to convince people not to choose a vinyl substitute. However, there are a lot more drawbacks, and a lot of them place limitations on using paper wallpaper when remodeling a home or apartment.

Disadvantages

  • They can fade in the sun.
  • The paper cannot be washed, but only wiped and then only with a slightly damp cloth.
  • Very low resistance to mechanical impacts.
  • Quickly gets dirty.
  • Paper wallpaper quickly absorbs all foreign odors, and it is impossible to remove them.

Counseling! Since the main threats to a new renovation are children and pets, it is best to choose vinyl wallpaper over paper when making this decision because it is more resilient to wear and tear.

Vinyl Wallpaper Paper Wallpaper
More durable and resistant to moisture Less durable and can tear easily
Easier to clean, often washable Cleaning is more difficult, not washable
Heavier and requires strong adhesive Lighter and easier to apply
More expensive due to higher quality Generally cheaper
Available in a wide variety of textures Limited to smoother finishes

Vinyl wallpaper is a good option for high-traffic areas and humid rooms because it is more resilient to moisture and offers greater durability. Compared to paper wallpaper, it is more resilient to stains and more easily cleaned.

Paper wallpaper, on the other hand, is more environmentally friendly and breathable. Although it is typically less expensive, it might not last as long, particularly in moist areas.

Your needs, the state of the room, and your financial situation will all influence your decision between vinyl and paper wallpaper. Each option has advantages, so before choosing, think about what’s most important to you.

Video on the topic

Poisonous wallpaper. We burn non-woven, paper, vinyl wallpaper with fire

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Dmitry Stepanov

Professional decorator with 10 years of experience. I know everything about renovating apartments, houses and offices. I will be happy to share my knowledge and experience with you.

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