Home / How to wallpaper walls that aren't GIB

Firstly - we get a lot of caravan renovations. These aren't Gib board - so yes technically it is possible.

BUT and there is a big but here. You are wallpapering a surface that isn't designed for wallpaper therefore all your warranties if it falls off the wall are void.

So how do we ensure it doesn't fall off? 

There are a few methods, research is one and the other is trial and error.

I myself did an old bathroom that had a Laminex/Seretone surface. They said it couldn't be done. But off I went to the DIY shop and after finding someone who really knew their stuff I got a primer that I painted over the Seretone and then wallpapered over. It was still up 7 years later when we moved out.

So yes it is possible, but I was willing to take the risk. It wasn't $500 a roll wallpaper. I don't know if I would have attempted it at that price.

We also did a bathroom shop that had ordered from a few different suppliers and it all feel off. Turns out they had run out of Gib (remember the Gib crisis) and used a cement board without sealing it. The cement board sucked up the paste and the wallpaper came off.

Preparation and research is the key.

My first advice is to get the specs of the substrate you are using and go to your local DIY shop and find out what they think. They have all the primers, products and knowledge.

If you're looking to wallpaper walls that aren't made of gib (also known as drywall or plasterboard), such as concrete, brick, or wood, the process will differ slightly. Here's a general guide on how to wallpaper these types of walls:

  1. Prepare the Surface: Ensure the wall surface is clean, smooth, and free of any dust, dirt, or debris. If the surface is uneven, you may need to use a filler or primer to smooth it out.

  2. Prime the Surface: Apply a primer suitable for the type of wall material you're working with. This helps the wallpaper adhere better and ensures a smoother finish. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times.

  3. Choose the Right Adhesive: Select an adhesive that is suitable for the type of wallpaper you're using and the wall material. For example, if you're wallpapering a concrete or brick wall, you'll need a strong adhesive designed for use on porous surfaces.

Below are some photos of walls we have done that aren't gib but have been successful.