How To Measure For Peel And Stick Wallpaper

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Introduction

Peel and stick wallpaper has become a popular choice for homeowners and renters alike, thanks to its ease of installation and ability to transform the look of any room. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of color and pattern to a bland wall or completely revamp the entire space, measuring accurately for peel and stick wallpaper is crucial to ensure a seamless application.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of measuring for peel and stick wallpaper step by step. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to determine the exact amount of wallpaper needed, including accounting for pattern repeat and extra for cutting and mistakes. So grab your tools and let’s get started!

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before you begin measuring for peel and stick wallpaper, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools to ensure an accurate measurement. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Measuring tape or a laser measure: A measuring tape is a versatile tool that will come in handy for measuring the width and height of the wall. Alternatively, you can use a laser measure for quick and precise measurements.
• Pencil and paper: You’ll need a pencil and paper to jot down your measurements and calculations.
• Straight edge or level: A straight edge or level will help you draw straight lines when marking your measurements on the wall.
• Scissors or utility knife: You’ll need scissors or a utility knife to cut the peel and stick wallpaper to the desired size and shape.
• Squeegee or smoothing tool: A squeegee or smoothing tool is essential for removing air bubbles and ensuring a smooth application of the wallpaper.

Once you have all your tools ready, you’re ready to move on to the next step: measuring the width of the wall.

Step 2: Measure the Width of the Wall

Now that you have your tools ready, it’s time to measure the width of the wall. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start by locating the starting point for your measurement. This is usually the left corner of the wall or the edge where the wallpaper will begin.
2. Hold the measuring tape or laser measure horizontally against the wall at the starting point.
3. Extend the tape measure or aim the laser measure along the wall until you reach the opposite edge.
4. Read or record the measurement, ensuring it is accurate to the nearest inch or centimeter.

Repeat this process for any additional wall sections that you plan to cover with peel and stick wallpaper. If there are any obstacles on the wall, such as windows or doors, subtract their width from the total measurement to ensure accurate calculations.

Once you have measured the width of the wall(s), you can move on to the next step: measuring the height of the wall.

Step 3: Measure the Height of the Wall

After measuring the width of the wall, it’s time to measure the height. Follow these steps to get an accurate measurement:

1. Identify the starting point for your measurement. This is typically at the bottom of the wall, where the wallpaper will begin.
2. Hold the measuring tape or laser measure vertically against the wall at the starting point.
3. Extend the tape measure or aim the laser measure upwards until you reach the top edge of the wall.
4. Read or record the measurement, making sure it’s precise to the nearest inch or centimeter.

Repeat this process for any additional wall sections you plan to cover with peel and stick wallpaper. Take note of any obstacles on the wall, such as switches or outlets, that may require adjustments in height measurements.

Once you have measured the height of the wall(s), you can move on to the next step: calculating the wallpaper needed.

Step 4: Calculate the Wallpaper Needed

Now that you have measured the width and height of the walls, it’s time to calculate the amount of peel and stick wallpaper you’ll need. Here’s how to do it:

1. For each wall, multiply the width by the height to determine the square footage of that wall. For example, if the width of a wall is 10 feet and the height is 8 feet, the square footage would be 80 square feet (10 ft x 8 ft = 80 sq ft).
2. If you are covering multiple walls, repeat this calculation for each wall and add up the square footage to get the total square footage needed.
3. Take note of any areas that will not be covered by the wallpaper, such as windows or doors. Subtract the square footage of these areas from the total square footage to get the final measurement.

Keep in mind that some peel and stick wallpapers are sold in rolls with specific dimensions. In that case, divide the total square footage by the square footage of one roll to determine how many rolls you’ll need to purchase.

Now that you have calculated the wallpaper needed, the next step is to account for pattern repeat.

When measuring for peel and stick wallpaper, be sure to measure the height and width of the wall in multiple places to account for any unevenness. Add a few extra inches to ensure you have enough material for trimming and matching patterns.

Step 5: Account for Pattern Repeat

When measuring for peel and stick wallpaper, it’s important to consider the pattern repeat. The pattern repeat refers to how often the design repeats within a roll of wallpaper. This is crucial for ensuring that the pattern aligns correctly when the wallpaper is applied. Follow these steps to account for pattern repeat:

1. Refer to the product specifications or packaging to find the pattern repeat measurement. It is usually indicated in inches or centimeters.
2. Divide the pattern repeat measurement by the width of the wallpaper roll. This will give you the number of times the pattern repeats across the width of one roll.
3. Multiply this number by the number of rolls you calculated in Step 4. This will give you the total pattern repeats needed.

For example, if the pattern repeat is 12 inches and the width of the wallpaper roll is 20 inches, the pattern repeats 1.67 times (12 inches ÷ 20 inches = 0.6). If you calculated that you need 5 rolls of wallpaper, you would need a total of 8.35 pattern repeats (1.67 repeats × 5 rolls = 8.35).

Rounding up to the nearest whole number is recommended to ensure you have enough wallpaper to account for the pattern repeat.

Now that you have accounted for pattern repeat, it’s time to consider extra wallpaper for cutting and mistakes.

Step 6: Consider Extra for Cutting and Mistakes

When measuring for peel and stick wallpaper, it’s always a good idea to account for extra material to allow for cutting and potential mistakes. Here’s how to consider extra wallpaper:

1. Add 10% to the total square footage calculated in Step 4. This extra material will account for trimming and cutting during installation.
2. If your walls have any irregularities, such as bumps or uneven surfaces, consider adding an additional 5% to 10% to ensure you have enough material to compensate for these imperfections.
3. If you’re new to applying peel and stick wallpaper or are unsure about your measurements, it’s advisable to add a bit more extra material to allow for mistakes or alignment issues during installation.

By considering these factors and adding extra wallpaper, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you have enough material to complete the project.

Now that you have accounted for the extra material, it’s time to move on to the final step: purchasing the sufficient amount of peel and stick wallpaper.

Step 7: Purchase Sufficient Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Now that you have determined the exact amount of peel and stick wallpaper you need, it’s time to purchase the right quantity. Here are a few tips to ensure you buy a sufficient amount:

1. Check the packaging or product description of the wallpaper to determine the coverage area of each roll. Ensure that the coverage area matches or exceeds the total square footage you calculated in Step 4.
2. Round up to the nearest whole number when determining how many rolls to purchase. It’s better to have a little extra than to run out in the middle of the installation.
3. If possible, order an additional roll or two to have as a backup in case of any future repairs or changes you may want to make.
4. Consider purchasing a sample or swatch of the wallpaper before committing to a larger quantity. This will allow you to see the color, pattern, and texture in person and ensure that it matches your vision for the space.

When purchasing peel and stick wallpaper, it’s also a good idea to buy from a reputable retailer or manufacturer to ensure the highest quality and a wider selection of patterns and designs.

By following these tips and guidelines in Step 7, you can be confident that you have purchased a sufficient amount of peel and stick wallpaper to complete your project.

With the wallpaper in hand, you’re now ready to transform your space and enjoy the beauty and functionality that peel and stick wallpaper offers!

Conclusion

Measuring for peel and stick wallpaper is a crucial step in ensuring a successful and seamless installation. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can accurately determine the amount of wallpaper needed and avoid any unnecessary wastage or shortage.

Remember to gather all the necessary tools before measuring, including a measuring tape or laser measure, pencil and paper, straight edge or level, scissors or utility knife, and a squeegee or smoothing tool. These tools will help you measure the width and height of the walls with precision.

Calculating the wallpaper needed involves multiplying the width and height of each wall section, considering any pattern repeat, and accounting for extra material for cutting and mistakes. Taking the time to accurately calculate these measurements will ensure a seamless and visually pleasing result.

When purchasing the peel and stick wallpaper, be sure to check the coverage area of each roll and round up to the nearest whole number to ensure you have enough material. Consider buying an extra roll or two for future repairs or changes.

With the right measurements and sufficient peel and stick wallpaper, you can transform any room in your home with ease. Say goodbye to boring walls and hello to a fresh, stylish look!

So, gather your tools, measure accurately, calculate wisely, and enjoy the process of applying peel and stick wallpaper to enhance the beauty of your living spaces.