Historic Home Wallpaper Installation

Our Process for Historic Homes

1. Historic Assessment: We evaluate the age, condition, and composition of your walls, noting any plaster damage, moisture issues, or previous wallpaper layers.
2. Pattern Consultation: We help you find wallpaper patterns that complement your home's era, from Victorian florals to Arts and Crafts geometrics.
3. Plaster Stabilization: Loose or crumbling plaster is carefully repaired using compatible materials that will not damage the original structure.
4. Lining Paper Application: For walls with significant imperfections, we apply lining paper to create a smooth, stable base for the decorative wallpaper.
5. Careful Installation: We use gentle adhesion methods appropriate for older walls, avoiding excessive moisture that could damage plaster.
6. Finishing and Inspection: Every detail is checked to ensure the installation respects the home's character while delivering a beautiful result.

Working with Older Walls and Plaster

Plaster walls are one of the defining features of historic homes, but they present unique challenges for wallpaper installation. Unlike modern drywall, plaster can be uneven, brittle, and prone to cracking. In Lakewood, where many homes date back to the mid-twentieth century, we frequently encounter plaster walls that need careful attention before any wallpaper can be applied.

Our approach begins with a thorough moisture test to identify any hidden water damage. We then stabilize loose plaster using specialized consolidants that penetrate and strengthen the existing material without altering its character. For walls with extensive damage, we apply a breathable lining paper that bridges cracks and creates a uniform surface for the decorative wallpaper.

We never use aggressive sanding or heavy fillers that could compromise the integrity of original plaster. Our goal is always to preserve as much of the original wall structure as possible while creating a surface that will hold wallpaper beautifully for years to come.

Preservation Mindset

When working on a historic home, every decision matters. We approach each project with a preservation mindset, understanding that these homes have stories to tell and architectural details worth protecting. This means using reversible adhesives when possible, choosing breathable wallpaper materials that will not trap moisture in old walls, and avoiding any modifications that could diminish the home's historic value.

For homeowners working with local historic preservation boards or seeking to maintain their property's historic designation, we can provide documentation of our methods and materials to support compliance efforts.

Materials and Surfaces

• Traditional paste-applied papers for authentic results
• Reproduction wallpapers from historic pattern archives
• Breathable natural fiber wall coverings
• Lining papers for damaged or uneven plaster
• Plaster, horsehair lath, and lime-based wall surfaces
• Woodwork and wainscoting-adjacent installations

Why Choose Us for Historic Properties

• Deep understanding of historic wall materials and conditions
• Experience with plaster repair and stabilization
• Access to period-appropriate wallpaper sources
• Preservation-first approach that protects your home's value
• Patient, detail-oriented craftsmanship

Areas We Serve

Frequently Asked Questions