On this page you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about the wallpaper sold on our website. We know hanging wallpaper can seem daunting, especially if you're new at it, but don't worry—we're here to help!
What do the wallpaper measurements tell me?
When you look at our wallpaper, you'll notice three separate measurements for each pattern:
- Width: This tells you how wide a roll of wallpaper is. We carry two different widths: 20.5” and 27”.
- Length: This tells you how long a roll is. We carry two lengths corresponding to the above widths: 33’ and 27’.
- Square footage: This is helpful for determining how many rolls you will need to order. If your wall is 10’ tall by 15’ wide, this is 150 square feet (height x width). If you know that a roll of your wallpaper of choice covers 56 square feet, you can calculate that three rolls will comfortably cover your space while allowing for waste (56 square feet x 3 rolls of wallpaper = 168 square feet of coverage).
In lieu of doing calculations like this in your head, it's much easier just to use our wallpaper calculator (which you can find on each product page) to determine how many rolls you will need. Just plug in your room size and some additional information, and we'll give you an idea of what you need to order to cover your space completely.
What is a wallpaper “repeat”? Will it change the way I hang my wallpaper?
A wallpaper's “repeat” determines both how often the pattern repeats itself horizontally, and how each panel of wallpaper will line up with each other. Here are the three repeat types you will see in the Disney collection:
- Drop Match: The most common type of repeat in our collection, a drop match repeats itself in every other panel. Every other strip of wallpaper installed will have the same design at the ceiling line. This forms a diagonal pattern sequence, rather than the horizontal pattern sequence created by a straight match. An example of this would be this paisley pattern, where the colored paisleys repeat at the point where your first two panels align.
- Straight Match: Every panel of wallpaper hung will look exactly the same. The wallpaper will match on adjoining strips, creating a horizontal pattern sequence. An example of this would be this harlequin pattern. As you can see, the diamond design is exactly the same the whole way across the paper.
- Random: Wallpaper with a random match has a pattern sequence that will match no matter how the adjoining strips are positioned on the wall. An example of this would be a striped wallpaper, like this one. By far the easiest repeat to deal with!
For all you visual learners out there, here's a quick diagram that you may find useful, using the same patterns referenced above:
Why do I need to “prime” my walls before hanging wallpaper?
Primer is a sealant for walls that prevents paste from being absorbed into the drywall or sheetrock. It also allows wallpaper paste to “grip” otherwise slick surfaces. Primer is important to use prior to application, as it makes removing wallpaper much easier, and also ensures that your paper will stick properly without curling or falling.
Can I hang wallpaper on textured walls, or on other surfaces (paneling, brick, stucco...)?
You can! But before applying wallpaper, you will need to apply a specialty pre-sized wallpaper liner, like Wonder Cover (available from York Wallcoverings), that is designed to bridge gaps in paneling or smooth out other textured surfaces. Once the liner is in place, you will have a more uniform base on which to hang your paper.
Where in my room should I start hanging the wallpaper?
Don't start right in the middle of the wall! The first panel you hang may not completely match other panels on the left and right side. So, the best place to start is in the least visible corner of your room. This would be by the entryway (if you are papering an entire room), or in the corner (if you are papering an accent wall).
Why is it important to allow for waste?
It's important to remember that, save “random” match patterns, your wallpaper will not perfectly repeat across each applied panel without you manually lining things up. Because you may need to trim several inches from the top of a roll to match panel one to panel two, you should have a comfortable amount of extra wallpaper in your order.
Generally, the larger the repeat, the more waste you should expect (because you will need to be more precise when you line up these patterns). You should never order only exactly as much as you need—always order extra. If you end up with an unused and unopened roll of wallpaper, you can always return it to us for a refund.
Why are run numbers important?
If you check your wallpaper packaging, you should see a small "R01," "R02," "R03," or something similar. The “R” stands for “run,” this tells you the batch of wallpaper your rolls came from. Although we rely on some of the best presses and color mixers in the United States, you may notice slight color differences between separately printed runs. If you find you need an extra roll to complete a pattern you have already started to apply, you should try to order from the same run as your existing paper, just to be sure everything looks even.
If you need to order from a specific run, please e-mail us before you place your order so we can be sure that we have your run in stock. As a word of caution, we will not always be able to fulfill special run requests, especially on older patterns and runs.
If you absolutely must apply paper from two different runs, we recommend matching the end of the first one and the beginning of the second in the corner of a room. That way, if there is any color difference, it will not be as obvious as it would be in the middle of the wall.
Can I apply RoomMates wall decals to my wallpaper?
Yes—but use caution! RoomMates does not recommend applying our wall decals or peel & stick borders to wallpaper until it has had time to “settle.” Much like applying decals to fresh paint, we suggest waiting approximately two weeks before sticking RoomMates to newly papered surfaces. Applying decals before the paper has settled could cause damage to the wallpaper, damage to your RoomMates, or both. For a detailed how-to guide on this subject, check out this page.
Can I return my wallpaper?
Absolutely. Please read our Return Policy for more information, as well as instructions on how to receive an RA number. Returns are accepted for unused and unopened rolls of wallpaper within 30 days of purchase. If you somehow find yourself with defective wallpaper, please call or e-mail us so we can replace what we've sent you with good stock.
Still scratching your head? Don't worry—we're listening! Send us an e-mail, and we'll do our best to answer your question as quickly as possible.