James Dulley: How to Hang Wallpaper Like a Pro

James Dulley’s guidance addresses a reader’s problem with wallpaper separating and bubbling only two years after installation. Writing to “Dear James,” Randy P. said the wallpaper failed in multiple spots and asked how to prevent the same issue after reinstalling. Dulley explains that wallpapering has a learning curve and that failures often trace back to installation and preparation steps, including insufficient relaxing time and incorrect adhesive soaking. He says bubbling typically happens when wallpaper relaxes too little before application, expanding after hanging. Delamination can occur if wallpaper sits too long after wet adhesive is applied or if it remains too wet for too long. Surface preparation, priming, thorough cleaning, and sizing for even adhesive drying are also presented as key factors, with attention to humidity and adhesive compatibility.