Do we love Peel and Stick Wallpaper?

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, peel and stick wallpaper has emerged as a 'game-changer'. With the promise of simplicity and flexibility, this innovative product is making waves among homeowners and renters alike. However, like any design solution, it comes with its own set of advantages and challenges. Let’s dive into the pluses and minuses of peel and stick wallpaper to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your space.

The Pluses

1. Ease of Application One of the most significant benefits of peel and stick wallpaper is its supposed ease of application. Unlike traditional wallpaper, which requires paste, peel and stick varieties simply adhere to the wall with a backing that peels off. This user-friendly feature promises even DIY novices to achieve a professional-looking result with minimal effort. However is that actually true? We have had cases where frustrated customers rip it from the wall - send it back to us in a screwed up ball. We have straightened it out and successfully stuck it on our demo wall. What went wrong? Was the initial wall dusty? Clean? Had it been primed? What was the initial surface?

2. No Mess, No Fuss The installation process for peel and stick wallpaper is notably mess-free. There’s no need for paste or brushes, which means fewer clean-up hassles. Additionally, this type of wallpaper supposedly doesn’t damage your walls, making it an excellent option for renters who need to adhere to lease agreements. HOWVER not all peel and stick wallpapers are equal and some are dubious quality. Also a lot depends on the state of the original wall. If it was not painted well or had flaky parts in the first instance even peel and stick can remove paint.

3. Repositionable and Removable The ability to reposition and remove peel and stick wallpaper without leaving residue or damaging the wall can be a significant advantage. This flexibility allows for easy adjustments during installation and the option to change up your décor whenever you please. This is however what I feel marginal as even peel and stick has it limits.

The Minuses

1. Durability Concerns While peel and stick wallpaper can look fantastic when first applied, it may not be as durable as traditional wallpaper. It can be prone to peeling at the edges, especially in high-traffic areas, steamy areas (bathrooms or kitchens) or on walls with imperfections. Additionally, some lower-quality options may not hold up as well over time.

2. Surface Limitations Peel and stick wallpaper adheres best to smooth, clean surfaces. Textured walls, freshly painted walls with high gloss, or walls with imperfections can affect the adhesion and overall appearance. Proper surface preparation is crucial for achieving the best results.

3. Limited Longevity Depending on the quality and the environment, peel and stick wallpaper may have a shorter lifespan compared to traditional wallpaper. Factors like humidity, temperature fluctuations, and general wear and tear can impact how long it stays looking fresh and intact.

4. Potential for Air Bubbles Achieving a perfectly smooth finish can sometimes be challenging, with the potential for air bubbles or creases during installation. While these issues can often be remedied with careful application, they may require extra time and patience to address.

5. Not Always Eco-Friendly Many peel and stick wallpapers are made from plastic, which is not the most environmentally friendly material. For those prioritizing sustainability, it’s essential to look for options made from more eco-conscious materials or consider the environmental impact of the product’s lifecycle.

Conclusion

Peel and stick wallpaper offers a host of benefits that make it an appealing choice for many. Its ease of use, variety of designs, and cost-effectiveness provide significant advantages, particularly for those who enjoy frequently changing their décor or live in rental properties. However, potential drawbacks such as durability concerns and surface limitations should be carefully considered before making a decision.

Ultimately, the choice to use peel and stick wallpaper will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and the characteristics of your space. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision and transform your walls with confidence.

Below is our favourite Paris Map that we used to print in peel and stick variety. Nowadays we just do it in Non Woven paper. It has been up 3 - 4 years before the stickiness started coming undone.