Wallpaper Materials

We print at 1200 DPI with UV-cured inks on vinyl wallpaper to deliver unmatched versatility in both design and maintenance - a standout choice for printable wallcoverings. These materials - renowned for their adaptability - transform spaces with a vast array of options while standing up to real-world demands. Whether it’s a chic home or a bustling commercial hub with high traffic areas - vinyl’s blend of style and durability make it a unique and commercially viable option for custom wall decor.

Design Without Boundaries

The creative potential of vinyl wallcoverings defies limitation. With our vast 20,000+ color library, every vision finds its perfect expression—whether it’s the subtle shimmer of metallic finishes or the timeless elegance of classic weaves.

What truly sets vinyl apart is its remarkable texture versatility. Feel the gentle touch of suede or the dimensional presence of stucco—all achievable without compromise. Our white ink technology combined with precision CMYK printing captures every nuance, from the boldest geometrics to the most delicate organics.

The lasting vibrancy of our UV-cured inks means your design investment remains brilliant for years, even in sun-drenched spaces. Colors don’t just survive—they continue to tell your story with the same impact as day one.

Effortless Durability

The 20oz Type II vinyl variants in our collection represent the gold standard in resilience. Scrubbable, tear-resistant, and engineered to withstand constant interaction, these wallcoverings shrug off the challenges of busy environments. A simple wipe with mild detergent erases daily wear without diminishing visual impact.

Moisture concerns become irrelevant with vinyl’s inherent resistance to mold and mildew. Areas once considered problematic—kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms—become new canvases for expression, performing brilliantly where traditional materials falter.

Health-conscious spaces benefit from our low VOC formulations and Class A fire ratings, creating environments that are as safe as they are beautiful—clean, practical, and worry-free.

Beyond the Plastic Perception

Forget outdated notions of shiny, artificial-looking vinyl. Today’s offerings deliver sophisticated textures that rival—and often surpass—natural materials. The rich depth of Cabretta leather, the subtle dimension of Plaster, the organic feel of Canvas—each finish tells a different tactile story while maintaining vinyl’s practical advantages.

The Investment That Endures

With a lifespan that often reaches 15-25 years (and potentially 40+ with proper care), vinyl wallcoverings represent exceptional long-term value. Whether recreating historic patterns or showcasing cutting-edge photography, these surfaces harmonize aesthetic ambition with functional reality—the rare design element that satisfies both artistic vision and practical demands.

In the realm of wall treatments, vinyl doesn’t just participate—it leads, offering a unique combination of creative freedom and real-world performance that transforms ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences.

Traditional/non-adhesive wallpapers (also known as Unpasted Wallcoverings) deliver enduring and consistent benefits that elevate your custom wallpaper experience. Unlike peel-and-stick options - which prioritize ease of installation and removal, traditional substrates blend durability, aesthetic richness, and professional finesse - ideal for spaces craving longevity and timeless charm that goes the distance

Built for Longevity

Superior Durability

Non-adhesive vinyl wallcoverings deliver exceptional longevity, with professional-grade materials offering scrubbability and tear resistance that meets rigorous industry testing standards. These premium options typically last 15-25 years—with proper care extending that timeline to 40+ years—significantly outperforming temporary alternatives. Extensive wear testing confirms their resilience in high-traffic environments, making them ideal for spaces that see constant use.

Wall Imperfection Shield

The substantial construction of traditional vinyl wallcoverings, combined with professional wet paste application, effectively conceals wall irregularities including cracks, dents, and uneven surfaces. This creates a flawless, seamless appearance that thinner alternatives simply cannot match. Proper wall preparation further enhances longevity and professional-grade results.

Timeless Investment

The exceptional durability of quality vinyl translates to superior long-term value, maintaining its appearance and integrity even in demanding residential and commercial settings. This makes it a lasting aesthetic asset rather than a temporary design solution.

Aesthetic Richness

Texture & Finish Diversity

Non-adhesive backings enable a remarkable range of textures and finishes beyond what self-adhesive options can provide. From woven fabric effects to dimensional stucco-like surfaces and luxurious leather-like textures, the variety is exceptional. Advanced printing technologies, including specialized inks and color systems, further enhance these distinctive finishes.

Professional Finish

Wet paste application, when executed with skill, creates a seamless integration between wallcovering and wall surface. This technique minimizes visible seams and eliminates bubbling concerns common with self-adhesive options. The ability to reposition during installation ensures perfect pattern alignment, resulting in a cohesive, professionally finished appearance.

Eco-Friendly Options

The market now offers environmentally conscious vinyl wallcovering options featuring natural fiber components and sustainable inks with low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. These products successfully balance environmental responsibility with aesthetic appeal and performance.

Why It Excels

Traditional vinyl wallcoverings consistently demonstrate superior performance in demanding environments where durability and aesthetic richness are priorities. Their exceptional texture range and professional-grade finish make them the preferred choice for discerning projects ranging from corporate environments to heritage restorations. The versatility of these materials allows them to adapt to virtually any design vision while maintaining their functional integrity.

Our peel-and-stick wallpaper stands as the superior choice for short-term installations, offering remarkable convenience and flexibility compared to traditional non-adhesive options. This solution excels in environments where change is anticipated—rental properties, event spaces, or seasonal decorating projects—delivering aesthetic impact without long-term commitment.

Effortless Setup & Removal

Simplified Installation

Peel-and-stick variants require minimal tools and expertise—simply peel off the backing, position correctly, and smooth onto the wall. This streamlined process significantly reduces installation time compared to the wet paste method required for traditional wallcoverings. Proper wall preparation further enhances the experience, making this an ideal option for DIY enthusiasts or projects with tight timelines.

Residue-Free Removal

One of the most compelling advantages is the clean removal process. Testing confirms peel-and-stick options can be easily repositioned within the first hour of application and later removed with minimal wall impact—a critical consideration for rental properties. This contrasts sharply with traditional wallcoverings, which require steam or solvents for removal and may cause surface damage.

Reusability

Select peel-and-stick products offer the additional benefit of reusability, allowing for removal and reapplication in new locations. This feature proves invaluable for temporary exhibits, pop-up retail displays, or rotating design elements—a level of flexibility traditional wallcoverings simply cannot provide.

Cost & Time Efficiency

Economic Advantages

The self-adhesive nature eliminates the need for professional installation services and supplementary materials, substantially reducing overall project costs. This economic efficiency particularly benefits those who refresh their spaces seasonally or require frequent aesthetic updates.

Multi-Surface Compatibility

Peel-and-stick wallpaper adheres effectively to various surfaces beyond standard drywall, including glass, metal, and furniture surfaces. This versatility expands design possibilities without extensive preparation requirements. Testing confirms reliable adhesion even on lightly textured walls with minimal effort.

Appropriate Durability

With a typical lifespan of 5-10 years and UV-cured inks ensuring color stability, peel-and-stick wallpaper provides sufficient durability for temporary applications. This timeframe aligns perfectly with short-term needs, unlike traditional wallcoverings’ 15-40+ year lifespan which exceeds requirements for temporary installations.

The Strategic Choice for Temporary Applications

Peel-and-stick wallpaper consistently demonstrates superior performance in scenarios requiring quick transformation and future flexibility. Its DIY-friendly application, clean removal process, and cost-effectiveness make it unmatched for temporary installations. The variety of textured options available delivers impressive visual impact while maintaining the freedom to change designs as needed. For temporary exhibits, photo backdrops, or seasonal refreshes, this solution delivers optimal balance between visual impact and practical flexibility.

Absolutely! Our wallcovering materials offer exceptional versatility that extends far beyond traditional wall applications. These adaptable products provide innovative solutions for both residential customization and professional design projects, offering opportunities to transform numerous surfaces throughout interior spaces.

Vertical Surface Applications

Ceiling Transformations

The often-overlooked “fifth wall” presents significant design potential. Applying wallcoverings to ceilings can introduce texture and visual interest, fundamentally altering room dynamics. Custom photographic printing enables the creation of distinctive overhead features such as sky scenes or geometric patterns that enhance spatial perception.

Door and Room Divider Enhancements

Standard doors become architectural features when covered with textured wallcoverings, adding warmth and character to transitional areas. In open-concept environments, wallcovering materials applied to room dividers establish visual boundaries while maintaining design continuity. Self-adhesive options prove particularly effective for these non-traditional applications.

Furniture and Fixture Integration

Furniture Rejuvenation

Wallcovering materials offer an efficient alternative to paint for furniture restoration. Dressers, bookshelves, and cabinetry can be revitalized with durable wallcovering materials, providing both protective and decorative benefits. Self-adhesive options facilitate straightforward weekend renovation projects with professional results.

Appliance Customization

Standard appliances can be personalized with appropriate wallcovering materials, enabling seamless integration with kitchen or laundry room design schemes. Advanced printing technologies with UV-cured inks ensure color stability and durability for surfaces that require frequent cleaning.

Functional Decorative Elements

Custom Large-Format Artwork

Wallcovering materials present a cost-effective solution for creating substantial wall art. Framed sections of textured wallcoverings function as standalone artistic elements, offering complete customization of dimensions, colorways, and patterns at significantly lower cost than comparable gallery pieces.

Kitchen and Bath Backsplashes

Select wallcovering materials, when properly sealed, provide economical alternatives to traditional tile installations. These surfaces offer water resistance and cleanability while allowing for more frequent design updates than permanent tile installations—particularly advantageous for rental properties.

Staircase Accents

Stair risers offer ideal opportunities for design enhancement with minimal material requirements. Durable wallcovering materials transform functional staircases into distinctive focal points, with advanced printing technologies ensuring longevity in these high-traffic applications.

Innovative Applications

Movable Design Elements

Lightweight panels covered with wallcovering materials create flexible design components for space division, seasonal decoration, or portable display backdrops. This approach provides particular value in multifunctional spaces requiring adaptable design elements.

Discrete Design Details

Some of the most effective applications involve unexpected placement—drawer linings, recessed shelf backing, or alcove highlighting. These subtle implementations add sophistication and cohesion throughout interior spaces.

Material Versatility Advantages

The conformability of contemporary wallcovering materials represents a significant advancement in interior design flexibility. Unlike more rigid finishing options, quality wallcoverings adapt to various surface contours while delivering exceptional durability and visual impact. This versatility enables virtually limitless creative applications across residential and commercial environments.

Short Answer

Texture itself doesn’t typically increase the cost. The pricing structure for our wallcoverings is based primarily on the weight of the material and specialty finishes (like metallics), not the texture.

What Actually Drives Wallpaper Pricing

At Fine Print NYC, we’ve designed our pricing to be straightforward and logical. Many clients assume textured options like Beads Texture would cost more than smooth options like Matte Finish, but that’s not how our pricing works. Instead, we focus on substantive factors that affect material performance and longevity.

The Weight Factor

The most significant pricing factor is the weight of the substrate:

• Lighter 13oz materials like Classic are more economical, making them excellent choices for residential projects or shorter-term installations.

• Heavier 20oz substrates like Grasscloth or Suede command higher prices because they offer commercial-grade Type II durability with superior scrubbability and longevity - perfect when you need Large Run Wallpaper for high-traffic areas.

Within each weight category, texture variation has virtually no impact on price. A textured 13oz material costs the same as a smooth 13oz material, giving you creative freedom without financial penalty.

Texture Neutral Pricing Examples

When comparing wallcoverings of the same weight class:

• Textured Canvas (13oz) costs the same as smooth Matte Finish (13oz)
• Heavily textured Plaster (20oz) is priced identically to less textured Pique (20oz) of the same weight

This approach allows you to select materials based on aesthetic and functional needs rather than trying to balance texture against budget constraints.

The Metallic Exception

The one notable exception to our weight-based pricing comes with metallic finishes. Materials like Silver Flash and Gold Flash do carry a premium regardless of their weight class. This reflects:

• The specialized manufacturing process required for reflective surfaces
• The complexity of printing with white ink on metallic backgrounds
• The dramatic visual impact these Metallic Wallpapers create in your space

Real-World Price Comparisons

To put this in perspective:

• A peel-and-stick option like Caviar (13oz) will be your most economical choice, perfect for temporary installations or rental properties.

• A standard commercial-grade option like textured Bondi Sands (20oz) or smooth Luster (20oz) will cost the same, with pricing based on their identical weight and durability.

• Premium metallic options like Rave or Platinum will command the highest prices, regardless of texture, due to their specialized finishes.

The Value Proposition

We’ve structured our pricing this way because we believe in fair value. You should be paying for meaningful differences in material performance rather than superficial texture variations. A heavily textured wallcovering like Mason won’t cost more than a smooth option like Mystical unless there’s a significant difference in weight or special finish.

This transparent approach means you can explore our full range of Printable Wallcovering Materials based on what works best for your project, not just what fits an arbitrary budget tier. Whether you’re interested in Custom Wallpaper for a residential project or outfitting a commercial space, you can select materials based on performance needs and aesthetic preferences without texture-based price penalties.

We have provided a full breakdown of the available sizes for each material above. All rolls are available in 50,100 and 150 yard rolls.

One thing worth noting is that we do not print edge to edge. In order to ensure optimal printing quality, we must allow for a 1” margin on each side so to get an accurate idea of the full printable width you must subtract 2” from the overall width of the wallpaper roll.

We’ve developed a comprehensive and sophisticated color management system that combines scientific precision with artistic judgment to ensure every inch of your custom wallpaper faithfully aligns with your brand, decor or existing wallpaper prints.

The Science of Color Reproduction

Our approach to color fidelity goes far beyond basic color matching. We’ve built a multi-layered process that addresses the challenges unique to large format printing:

When you’re printing a small document, minor color variations might go unnoticed. But when those same variations appear across an entire wall, they become immediately apparent. Our system prevents these issues through several key technologies:

Spectrophotometric Calibration

We use advanced spectrophotometers—essentially “color microscopes”—to precisely measure and digitize color values from physical samples. This allows us to create exact digital matches of practically any color reference you provide:

• Pantone swatches from your brand guidelines
• Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams paint chips that match your existing decor
• Even faded vintage wallpaper samples for our Wallpaper Reproduction services

Comprehensive Color Library

Over the years, we’ve built and refined a library of more than 20,000 precisely calibrated color formulations. This extensive database means we’re not starting from scratch with each project—we’re drawing on years of color experience to achieve consistent results across all our Printable Wallcovering Materials.

Multi-Condition Light Assessment

Colors appear differently under various lighting conditions. Our professional lightbox testing simulates different environments—daylight, indoor lighting, and evening conditions—to ensure your wallcovering will look right regardless of when and where it’s viewed. This is particularly important for reflective materials like our Metallic Wallpapers, where lighting dramatically affects appearance.

The Art of Color Consistency

While technology forms the foundation of our approach, the human element remains essential for truly outstanding color reproduction:

Daily Press Calibration

Our Mimaki UCVJ-300 printing system receives daily calibration—a process where our technicians meticulously adjust output settings to ensure perfect alignment between digital files and physical output. This careful tuning ensures that the color remains consistent from first panel to last.

Hand-Refined Color Adjustment

Some projects require more than automated color matching. Our artists can manually enhance color reproduction, particularly for projects like Reprint Discontinued Wallpapers where we need to recreate the original vibrancy of aged materials. Through careful adjustments of CMYK values and strategic use of white ink, we can bring historical patterns back to life with remarkable accuracy.

Material-Specific Calibration

Different wallcovering materials absorb and reflect ink differently. A color that appears vivid on Matte Finish might look subtly different on textured Caviar or shimmering Silver Flash. Our team tests each material specifically, making minute adjustments to ensure consistent results regardless of the substrate you choose.

The Power of Proofing

Theory and technology only get you so far—that’s why we’ve built extensive proofing steps into our process:

Physical Sample Proofs

Before any large-scale production, we create sample press proofs printed on your chosen material and ship them to you within 3-5 business days. These aren’t simulations—they’re actual pieces of the material you’ve selected, printed with the same inks and settings that will be used for your full project. This gives you a tangible preview of exactly how your Custom Wallpaper will appear.

Real-World Evaluation Guidelines

Along with your proofs, we provide guidance on how to evaluate them under different lighting conditions. We recommend checking your samples in morning light, under artificial lighting, and at dusk to ensure the colors work in all relevant conditions. This practical approach, developed through extensive testing, helps prevent surprises during installation.

Production Batch Control

For large projects we implement strict batch control procedures. All panels for a single project are printed using identical ink formulations, environmental settings, and calibration profiles. This meticulous attention to production details ensures perfect color consistency throughout your entire installation.

Why Our Approach Matters

The importance of color fidelity becomes most apparent in challenging projects:

• When we’re helping architects match a corporate identity exactly on Wallpaper for Architects
• When reproducing the subtle hues of a vintage pattern through our Wallpaper Scanning services
• When creating dramatic environmental graphics that must maintain consistent color across multiple walls

Our comprehensive approach to color management means your large format digital wallpaper won’t just look good—it will look exactly as you intended, creating spaces that truly reflect your design vision.

For more information on preparing files that will reproduce accurately, visit our guide on How to Design Files for Custom Wallpaper.

We’ve created a streamlined approach to expedited shipping that maintains our quality standards while getting your wallcoverings to you quickly when deadlines tighten.

FedEx Partnership Benefits

We work exclusively with FedEx for all expedited deliveries, which provides several key advantages:

• Access to their fastest shipping options (Priority Overnight, Standard Overnight, and 2Day)
• Typical transit times reduced from 2-7 days to just 1-3 days
• Consistent processes that our team has mastered for maximum reliability

Tracking and Security

Every order includes comprehensive tracking and security measures:

• Immediate email notification with your FedEx tracking number
• Signature confirmation required for ALL deliveries (including samples)
• Proactive monitoring by our shipping team to prevent delays

We never compromise quality for speed. Your expedited order receives the same careful inspection and precise packaging as our standard shipments, ensuring that your Custom Wallpaper arrives not just quickly, but in perfect condition.

For best results with expedited shipping, communicate your deadline early and ensure someone will be available to sign for the delivery. Our project managers can help develop a realistic production and shipping schedule that meets your specific timeline needs.

Vinyl wallcoverings have become the gold standard for commercial environments, and for good reasons. When performance needs to meet aesthetics in high-traffic spaces, vinyl delivers exceptional value through its durability, practicality, and design versatility.

Exceptional Durability for Commercial Demands

Commercial spaces face constant wear and tear that would quickly deteriorate standard residential wallpapers. Vinyl wallcoverings, especially our 20oz Type II options like Grasscloth and Suede, provide superior resistance against daily abuse.

In testing under ASTM D2261 protocols, these materials demonstrated exceptional tear resistance—important for areas where furniture moves frequently or equipment might bump against walls. This resilience translates to significantly longer lifespans, typically 15-25 years with proper care, compared to the relatively short life of paper-based coverings.

Vinyl’s inherent moisture resistance makes it particularly valuable in commercial environments with variable humidity or cleaning needs. Unlike paper-based alternatives that absorb moisture and promote mold growth, vinyl wallcoverings resist water penetration and inhibit mildew development. This makes them ideal for restaurants, medical facilities, and other spaces requiring frequent sanitization.

For additional protection in especially demanding environments, vinyl can be further enhanced with protective topcoats as detailed in our guide to How Topcoats Make Wallpapers More Durable.

Practical Advantages for Facility Management

Maintaining clean, professional-looking walls becomes significantly easier with vinyl wallcoverings. Most commercial vinyl options offer high “scrubbability” ratings, allowing for regular cleaning with mild detergents without color fading or surface damage. This practical benefit translates to lower maintenance costs and consistent appearance over time.

The ability to withstand repeated cleaning makes vinyl particularly valuable in healthcare settings, food service areas, and high-traffic public spaces where regular sanitization is essential. Our detailed Care Instructions for Modern Wallpaper provide specific guidelines for maintaining these materials in commercial environments.

Vinyl wallcoverings also offer practical installation advantages. They generally install more predictably than paper alternatives and, when the time eventually comes for replacement, typically remove more cleanly than traditional wallpapers. For temporary installations or spaces that undergo frequent redesigns, our Peel and Stick Wallpaper options provide additional flexibility.

Design Versatility Meets Commercial Performance

The design capabilities of modern vinyl wallcoverings have expanded dramatically in recent years. Our collection includes everything from subtle textures like Caviar to dramatic metallic finishes like Silver Flash. This range allows designers to achieve their aesthetic vision without compromising on commercial performance requirements.

For projects requiring exact color matching to corporate standards or interior design schemes, our Wallpaper Color Matching service can reproduce precise hues from a library of over 20,000 colors. This capability ensures brand consistency across multiple locations or perfect integration with existing design elements.

The ability to customize designs for Photowall Printing allows for branded environments, wayfinding elements, and experiential graphics that transform commercial spaces while maintaining the practical benefits of vinyl construction.

For more information on properly preparing surfaces for installation, refer to our guide on How to Prepare Walls for Wallpaper Installation.

Yes, installing wallpaper in high-moisture environments requires special attention to ensure longevity and prevent damage. Success hinges on making informed choices about materials, preparation, and installation methods.

Moisture-Resistant Material Selection

The weight and composition of wallcovering materials directly impact their moisture resistance:

20oz Commercial Grade Wallcoverings offer the highest moisture protection. These heavyweight Type II materials are constructed with robust vinyl layers specifically engineered to withstand humidity, resisting mold and mildew growth even in challenging environments like full bathrooms with showers.

13oz Medium-Weight Options provide moderate moisture resistance, making them suitable for kitchens and powder rooms where humidity fluctuates but direct water contact is limited. These materials balance durability with aesthetics for spaces with occasional moisture exposure.

8oz Lightweight Materials generally offer minimal moisture protection and are better suited for low-humidity areas. While some have water-resistant coatings, they typically lack the structural integrity needed for consistently damp environments.

Peel and Stick Products vary in moisture resistance based on their construction. While convenient, many have adhesives that can fail under persistent humidity. Select versions specifically rated for bathroom or kitchen use when considering these for moisture-prone areas.

Type I vs. Type II Classification is critical for moisture considerations. Type II wallcoverings (typically 20oz or heavier) must meet stringent durability standards, including moisture resistance, while Type I materials have lower performance requirements and less reliable moisture protection.

Essential Wall Preparation Steps

Proper substrate preparation becomes even more critical in moisture-prone spaces:

1. Ensure walls are completely dry and free of existing mold or mildew
2. Apply a mold-inhibiting primer specifically formulated for high-moisture areas
3. Address any existing moisture intrusion issues before installation begins
4. Allow additional drying time between preparation steps in naturally humid spaces

Installation Best Practices

Modified installation techniques help maximize performance in humid environments:

1. Use mildew-resistant adhesives specifically formulated for moisture-prone areas
2. Seal all edges near water sources with waterproof silicone caulk
3. Pay special attention to seam execution, ensuring tight, well-bonded joints
4. Allow extended drying time before exposing newly installed wallcovering to moisture

Ongoing Maintenance Requirements

Long-term success requires attention to:

1. Maintaining proper ventilation to minimize humidity levels
2. Promptly addressing any signs of moisture intrusion
3. Regular cleaning with appropriate products to prevent mold development
4. Periodically inspecting and renewing edge sealants near water sources

With the right materials, preparation, and installation techniques, wallcoverings can perform beautifully even in challenging moisture environments, providing aesthetic appeal without compromising durability or health considerations.

The masking tape transfer method is a clever installation technique that gives you greater control when positioning wallpaper. This approach is particularly valuable when working with intricate patterns or in situations where precise alignment is critical.

The Basic Concept

Think of masking tape as creating a temporary hinge system for your wallpaper. Instead of immediately applying adhesive to the entire panel (which commits you to a position), this method allows you to perfectly position the paper first, then secure it section by section.

Step-by-Step Process

Preparation Phase 1. Start with properly prepared walls following standard guidelines for wallpaper installation 2. Measure and cut your wallpaper panel with appropriate overlap for trimming 3. If working with a pattern, identify key alignment points

Creating the Transfer System 1. Apply strips of low-tack masking tape across the top edge of your wallpaper panel 2. For larger panels, you may add additional horizontal tape strips every 1-2 feet down the panel 3. Position the taped side against the wall at your desired starting point

The brilliance of this approach is that the masking tape creates a temporary attachment point while leaving the rest of the panel free to hang naturally, allowing you to check alignment before committing.

Final Installation 1. Once perfectly positioned, fold the bottom portion of the panel upward, keeping the taped section attached to the wall 2. Apply appropriate adhesive to the exposed wall area (for traditional wallpaper) or remove backing (for peel-and-stick) 3. Carefully smooth the wallpaper back into position, working from the center outward 4. Continue this process in sections, working your way down the wall

Benefits Across Different Wallpaper Types

This method proves valuable across various wallcovering weights and types:

For 20oz Type II Commercial Wallcoverings: These heavier materials can be challenging to handle while wet with adhesive. The tape method provides stability during alignment, ensuring these durable but less flexible materials lay perfectly.

For 13oz Medium-Weight Options: The tape method helps maintain pattern alignment during installation, especially important for these commonly patterned materials.

For 8oz Lightweight Wallcoverings: These thinner materials can be more prone to tearing or stretching when saturated with adhesive. The tape method minimizes handling during the most vulnerable phase.

For Peel-and-Stick Products: While these already offer repositionability, the tape method still helps with initial placement of large panels, preventing the adhesive from accidentally activating before you’re ready.

When This Method Shines

The masking tape transfer method is particularly valuable when: - Working with large-scale or complex patterns that require precise alignment - Installing wallpaper in tight spaces with limited maneuverability - Applying heavyweight materials that become unwieldy when wet with adhesive - Working alone on an installation project - Tackling your first DIY wallpaper project

By giving you greater control over the positioning process, this simple technique helps avoid the frustration of misaligned patterns and creates more professional-looking results, regardless of your experience level or the type of wallcovering you’re installing.

Indoor air quality has become increasingly important in interior design, particularly as we better understand how building materials affect the environments we live and work in. Our wallcoverings undergo comprehensive testing to ensure they contribute to healthy indoor spaces while meeting aesthetic and performance requirements.

Understanding Wallcovering Emissions

All building materials, including wallcoverings, can potentially release chemicals into the air—a process called off-gassing. The primary concern involves volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can cause both short-term irritation and long-term health effects at high concentrations.

Traditional wallcoverings often contained problematic compounds in their base materials, adhesives, or printing inks. Modern manufacturing has dramatically improved this situation through better material science and production techniques.

Our wallcoverings address these concerns through several important approaches:

UV-Cured Ink Technology

Unlike solvent-based inks that release VOCs as they dry, our UV-cured inks undergo an instantaneous curing process when exposed to ultraviolet light. This technology fundamentally changes how the ink solidifies:

• Traditional inks dry through evaporation, releasing solvents into the air
• UV-cured inks polymerize (harden) immediately upon UV exposure
• This process effectively locks in compounds that might otherwise off-gas
• The result is virtually zero post-production emissions from the printed design

Material Composition Considerations

Different wallcovering weights and types have varying emission profiles:

• Our 20oz Type II commercial vinyl products undergo additional processing to remove plasticizers that historically contributed to emissions
• 13oz medium-weight materials typically feature improved formulations with non-toxic stabilizers
• 8oz lightweight options often incorporate newer, low-emission polymer technologies
• Peel and stick products use specially formulated low-VOC adhesives that maintain their performance while minimizing emissions

Certification and Testing Protocols

Rather than making general claims about safety, we subject our materials to stringent third-party testing. Key certification programs include:

California’s Section 01350 Standard

This represents one of the most rigorous emissions testing protocols in the building industry. Materials are placed in environmental chambers that precisely measure the type and quantity of any compounds released. To pass, emissions must fall below strict health-based limits for 35 individual VOCs.

GREENGUARD Gold Certification

This program sets even lower emissions limits than standard certifications, specifically addressing sensitive environments like schools and healthcare facilities. It evaluates total VOC emissions as well as individual chemical levels and formaldehyde content.

Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs)

These comprehensive life-cycle assessments document the environmental impact of our materials from manufacturing through installation and use. They provide transparent emissions data that architects and designers can use for LEED and other green building projects.

Real-World Applications and Considerations

Different environments have different air quality requirements:

Healthcare Settings

In hospitals, medical offices, and long-term care facilities, infection control and chemical sensitivity are paramount concerns. Our Type II (20oz) wallcoverings are particularly suitable for these environments because:

• They can withstand frequent cleaning with hospital-grade disinfectants
• Their low emission profiles support respiratory health
• The vinyl composition resists microbial growth

Educational Environments

Schools and childcare centers must consider both the higher sensitivity of developing bodies and the intensive use these spaces receive. Our materials designated for these environments meet the strictest emissions standards while providing the necessary durability.

Residential Applications

For homes, particularly those with young children, elderly residents, or individuals with respiratory conditions, our entire range of wallcoverings provides safe options with minimal emissions. Even our peel and stick products, which contain pressure-sensitive adhesives, are formulated to minimize off-gassing.

Maintaining Air Quality After Installation

To preserve the air quality benefits of our low-emission wallcoverings:

1. Use only the recommended adhesives or installation methods
2. Ensure proper ventilation during and after installation
3. Follow manufacturer cleaning guidelines to avoid introducing harsh chemicals
4. Monitor for any water damage that could lead to mold growth behind wallcoverings

By combining advanced manufacturing techniques, rigorous testing, and appropriate material selection for each application, our wallcoverings contribute to healthy indoor environments across the full spectrum of residential and commercial spaces—from daycare centers to healthcare facilities and everything in between.

Wallcovering standards were developed by the Wallcovering Association (now part of the Chemical Fabrics and Film Association) to establish consistent performance criteria for commercial applications. By creating standardized classifications, the industry aimed to provide architects, designers, and facilities managers with clear benchmarks for specifying appropriate materials based on expected usage conditions.

Key Differences Between Type I and Type II

Weight and Thickness

• Type I: Weighs between 7-13 ounces per square yard; typically 15-20 mils thick
• Type II: Weighs between 13-22 ounces per square yard; typically 20-25 mils thick

Durability Metrics

• Type I: Moderate durability with breaking strength of 50 × 55 pounds per linear inch
• Type II: Enhanced durability with breaking strength of 50 × 55 pounds per linear inch and higher tear resistance

Intended Usage Environments

• Type I: Suitable for low-traffic commercial areas with light use
• Type II: Designed for high-traffic environments and areas requiring frequent cleaning

Testing Requirements

Both types undergo rigorous testing according to ASTM standards, but Type II must meet more stringent performance criteria for: - Abrasion resistance - Scrubbing cycles without visible damage - Stain resistance - Tear strength

Performance Characteristics Comparison

Type I Wallcoverings

Type I materials offer sufficient durability for areas with limited physical contact. They provide moderate resistance to staining and can withstand basic cleaning protocols. Their lighter construction typically results in easier installation but may be more susceptible to damage in demanding environments.

Type II Wallcoverings

Type II materials deliver substantially higher performance in challenging conditions. The additional material weight translates to enhanced tear resistance, superior scuff protection, and greater dimensional stability. These wallcoverings can withstand aggressive cleaning agents and more frequent maintenance regimens without deterioration.

Informing Your Purchasing Decision

Assessment Factors to Consider

Traffic Volume and Type Evaluate the expected foot traffic and type of activity in the space. Areas with high movement, potential for impact, or frequent touches benefit from Type II’s enhanced durability.

Maintenance Requirements Consider how often the surfaces will need cleaning and what cleaning methods will be employed. If frequent sanitization with stronger cleaning agents is anticipated, Type II offers better chemical resistance.

Project Lifespan Expectations For long-term installations where replacement would be disruptive or costly, the extended durability of Type II often justifies the higher initial investment.

Environmental Conditions Assess humidity levels, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to sunlight. Type II products generally demonstrate superior dimensional stability under variable environmental conditions.

Budget Considerations While Type II materials typically command a premium of 15-25% over comparable Type I products, this initial cost difference should be evaluated against the potential for earlier replacement and maintenance costs.

Recommended Applications

Type I Recommended Environments

• Private offices
• Conference rooms with limited use
• Residential applications
• Areas with controlled access

Type II Recommended Environments

• Healthcare facilities
• Educational institutions
• Hospitality spaces
• Retail environments
• Corridors and common areas
• Food service locations

Conclusion

The Type I and Type II classifications provide valuable guidance for selecting appropriate wallcoverings based on performance requirements. For spaces with moderate use and limited maintenance demands, Type I materials often provide sufficient durability at a lower cost point. However, for high-traffic areas or environments where longevity and maintenance efficiency are priorities, Type II wallcoverings deliver superior value despite higher initial costs. Understanding these standards enables more informed specifications that balance aesthetic goals with practical performance requirements.