5 Types of Wallpaper You Didn't Know Existed
Wallpaper used to be a staple in American homes, but that trend has since mostly died out. Today, wallpaper is often left out of the conversation of modern interior design unless it’s in regards to wallpaper removal. However, recent years suggest a possible resurgence of wallpaper, and not the kind that dominated homes in the mid-20th Century.
Indeed, wallpaper isn’t what it used to be. While most of us are familiar with the paper- and vinyl-based wall coverings of old, there are many more kinds of wallpaper out there, varying in composition, aesthetic, functionality, and sustainability. Let’s explore five types of wallpaper you might have never heard about.
1. Paintable Wallpaper
It might seem like a contradiction, but some wallpaper is meant to be painted over. Paintable wallpaper is often white, featuring repeated designs (often protruding) that come to light after being coated with paint. This gives you some creative control over the final look of your wallpaper and makes it easy to provide an interior with some texture without resorting to textured paint. For the best results, hire interior painting services to coat this type of wallpaper.
2. Flock Wallpaper
If you want your wallpaper designs to stand out (literally), flock wallpaper might be right for you. Flock wallpaper has actually been around for centuries, and now it’s making something of a comeback. This type of wallpaper is notable for its raised velvet designs. The style and elegance of flock wallpaper are undeniable, but keeping this material clean can be a challenge, as the wallpaper attracts dust, and flock particles can loosen as well.
3. Fabric Wallpaper
Wallpaper can also be built from various textile materials, such as cotton, silk, linen, felt, or even feathers. Depending on the materials used, fabric wallpaper options can range widely in cost, ease of application and removal, texture, and durability. Additional effort is required to keep fabric wallpaper clean as well. Still, these types of wallpaper are becoming more and more popular for their versatility and feel.
4. Bamboo Wallpaper
Believe it or not, bamboo can be made into wallpaper, too. This natural, sustainable option adds exotic appeal to any interior. That said, bamboo wallpaper isn’t without its difficulties. The material is highly attractive to dust and moisture and hard to clean, so it’s best to install it in a drier area with lower traffic. Of course, these drawbacks might not matter much to you, and if you want to keep your home as environmentally-friendly as possible, bamboo might be right for you.
5. Grasscloth Wallpaper
Speaking of sustainability, another great natural covering is grasscloth wallpaper. This wallpaper is constructed from woven fibers of various materials like hemp, sisal, and jute, resulting in beautiful and versatile textures. Some types of grasscloth can also be painted, so home interior painting is still on the menu if you want to add some color. Best of all, this completely recyclable wallpaper helps dampen noise and easily conceals wall imperfections.
They say you learn something new every day. Perhaps this article has taught you about some types of wallpaper you never knew existed, or even inspired you to consider wallpaper somewhere in your home. And if you need to tear down some old wallpaper in the meantime, hire Nashville painters that know how to remove wallpaper without leaving a mess or damaging your surfaces.
At Nash Painting, in addition to our knowledge of interior and exterior painting, we also know the ins and outs of wallpaper removal. To learn more about us, our services, and our values, call us at (615) 829-6858 today!