6 Different Types of Wallpaper Materials (Pros & Cons)

Common Materials Used in Wallpaper (Advantages & Disadvantages)

Introduction:
In the world of interior design, the choice of wall coverings plays a key role in defining the atmosphere and aesthetic appeal of a space. Wallpapers, with their diverse range of materials, textures, and patterns, offer a multitude of options for personalizing and enhancing interiors. From the traditional charm of original paper wallpapers to the innovative advantages of non-woven varieties, and from the robust durability of vinyl to the natural elegance of textile and grasscloth wallpapers, each type brings its unique characteristics to the table. 

This article embarks on a comprehensive journey through the world of wallpapers, exploring the distinct features, benefits, and considerations of each type, including original paper, non-woven, vinyl, textile, grasscloth, and wood veneer wallpapers. With roots stretching back centuries, wallpapers have evolved significantly, adapting to changing trends and technological advancements yet remaining a staple in decor. 

Whether you're drawn to the eco-friendly aspects and classic beauty of paper wallpapers or the practicality and resilience of modern alternatives, understanding the distinctions of each category will empower you to make informed decisions that align with your design vision and functional requirements. Join us as we delve into the fascinating evolution and diversity of wallpapers, offering insights and inspiration for your next interior design project.

Most Common Materials Used in Wallpaper

1- Original Paper Wallpaper (100% Paper) 

a. Duplex wallpaper is in this category. (Explained below)

Traditional paper wallpaper is one of the oldest and most classic choices for wall coverings. Made purely from paper, just paper from trees, this type of wallpaper is environmentally friendly. It offers a wide range of designs, colors, and patterns, making it a versatile option for any interior design scheme.

Characters: 

• Originated in the 16th century
• A natural and warm aesthetic
• Good for both modern and traditional interiors
• Unpasted and always requires glue
• Higher-end wallpaper
• Becoming overshadowed by other varieties
• Common among European wallpaper, including Scandinavian design.

Benefits:

• Eco-friendly
• Breathability
• Aesthetic Variety
• Matte Appearance desired by many.

Disadvantages:

• Application and removal
• Durability
• Not-resistance to humidity 
• Not suitable for high-traffic areas.

Maintenance: 

• Prone to water and stain damage and needs careful upkeep
• Gently wipe with a dry cloth to remove dust
• Avoid exposure to direct moisture sources.

a. Duplex Wallpaper

Duplex wallpaper is a type of wall covering made from two or more layers of paper that are firmly bonded together. It is created exclusively from printed paper and is a wall-covering material. Unlike other wallpapers, it doesn't feature any embossing on its surface. Additionally, this wallpaper is typically uncoated; however, in some cases, a glossy finish may be applied to enhance its aesthetic appeal and to make the design more visually striking.

• Pros: Duplex wallpaper is readily available and reasonably priced.
• Cons: The design often lacks a three-dimensional appearance. Due to its limited durability, it's not recommended for damp areas.

2. Non-Woven Wallpaper

Non-woven wallpapers are relatively new innovations in the wall-covering industry. They are made from a combination of natural and synthetic fibers, including cellulose (a plant-based material) and textile fibers, often polyester or a blend of other synthetic fibers. This composition creates a stable and durable wallpaper that does not easily tear or wrinkle. The non-woven fabric is essentially a web of fibers bonded together through chemical, mechanical, heat, or solvent treatment rather than being woven or knitted. 

Non-woven wallpapers are exceptionally user-friendly. They can be easily applied and removed without damaging the walls, making them an excellent choice for those who frequently change their decor.

• Pros: Non-woven wallpaper is lightweight, making installation more straightforward than traditional paper varieties. It boasts excellent durability, resistance to tearing, and superior moisture management. Additionally, it's easily removable for wallpaper updates, minimizing environmental impact.
• Cons: Challenges with non-woven wallpaper include potential peeling at seams or edges, requiring careful attention to detail during installation.

3- Vinyl Wallpaper

• A- Solid Vinyl Wallpaper
• B- Vinyl Coated Paper
• C- Fabric Backed Vinyl

General Introduction (Vinyl Wallpaper): 

Vinyl wallpapers are available in three distinct sub-categories, each differing in material composition and offering unique benefits. They are either 100% vinyl, or they are made by printing a design onto a paper or fabric backing and then coating it with a vinyl layer. This vinyl coating makes the wallpaper water-resistant, resistant to dust accumulation, scrubbable, and less prone to tearing.

Therefore, in general, Vinyl wallpapers are renowned for their durability and ease of maintenance, making them a favorite for high-traffic areas or rooms exposed to moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms. Vinyl wallpapers are available in various finishes, including matte and glossy, and can mimic textures such as fabric or leather, although they may require specific care during installation.

A- Solid Vinyl Wallpaper

Solid vinyl wallpaper, made entirely of vinyl, offers excellent durability and resistance to moisture, making it perfect for humid areas. It's easily washable, scrub-friendly, and scratch-resistant, which is why it's a popular choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. 

Additionally, it's cost-effective to produce, ensuring great value. Compared to other wallpapers, solid vinyl has a glossier finish and is commonly available as prepasted, simplifying installation.

It's important to acknowledge the ongoing discussion regarding the potential negative health impacts of prolonged exposure to vinyl wallcoverings, given their plastic composition. The decision is yours, but choosing wallpapers made without PVC by manufacturers can be a positive move. PVC-free wallpapers don't emit harmful toxins, making them a safer choice for indoor spaces.

B- Vinyl Coated Wallpaper

These wallpapers have a paper base that is coated with a layer of vinyl. This type combines the aesthetic appeal of paper with the enhanced durability and cleanability of vinyl. It contains a layer of acrylic-type vinyl or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sprayed onto a paper base. This composition makes it more durable and easier to clean and remove than wallpapers made entirely of paper (pulp) or non-woven materials, positioning it as a middle ground for those who may find non-woven wallpapers too lightweight or solid vinyl's appearance, texture, or scent unappealing. 

Although it is less shiny and leans more towards a matte finish, vinyl-coated wallpaper can exhibit a slight sheen. Despite its popularity in the early 2010s, vinyl-coated wallpaper has declined, with few new collections emerging. The market has shifted towards either minimal to no vinyl content wallpapers or the durability of solid vinyl, leaving the vinyl-coated option less favored.

C- Fabric-backed Vinyl Wallpaper 

Fabric-backed Vinyl Wallpaper has a fabric base coated with a vinyl layer on the front, offering a balance of durability and a textured appearance. It's the toughest kind you can put up, and it's the most durable wallpaper out there due to its combination of vinyl's toughness and strong fabric. 
When you hear fabric-backed vinyl, think of the tough stuff they use in places like hotels, office buildings, big event halls, or airports. You pretty much can't scratch or rip this wallpaper unless you're super strong, like the Incredible Hulk. Even though it's mostly used in business places, many people also use it in their homes because it lasts so well.
They're chosen for commercial areas and homes where people want the strongest wallpaper possible.

• Note: Careful consideration regarding humidity levels is required to preserve its quality.

Less Common Materials Used in Wallpaper Production

4- Textile Wallpaper:

• A. Natural Textile Wallpaper
• B. Synthetic/Polyolefin Textile Wallpaper

Textile wallpaper represents a refined and versatile choice for those seeking to combine the tactile richness of fabrics with the practicality of wall coverings. This type of wallpaper is crafted by laminating woven natural or synthetic fibers onto a paper or acrylic backing, creating an array of patterns and textures that can transform any space. 

With options ranging from the understated elegance of natural fibers like cotton, linen, and silk, to the durability and innovation of synthetic alternatives, textile wallpapers cater to a broad spectrum of aesthetic and functional demands. Whether for a serene bedroom, a professional office space, or a lively living room, textile wallpapers add depth, warmth, and a sense of luxury.

Textile wall coverings are a popular choice for hotels, meeting rooms, banks, restaurants, elegant lounges, and even discerning homes. They not only enhance the aesthetics but also improve the room climate thanks to the insulating properties of the textiles. These coverings offer thermal insulation and sound dampening, with denser textiles providing a greater effect.

Some manufacturers even provide specialized options with stain-resistant, fire-retardant, anti-static, or anti-allergic properties. This makes them suitable for spaces with demanding requirements and adds to their exclusivity. Our online shop offers premium textile wallpapers from respected manufacturers.

A- Natural Textile Wallpaper:

Natural textile wallpapers are made with eco-friendly, organic fibers laminated onto a backing, offering an authentic texture and a visually soothing ambiance. Ideal for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere, these wallpapers are perfect for spaces where the aesthetic of natural materials is appreciated. However, the beauty and environmental appeal of natural fibers come with a need for careful maintenance and greater sensitivity to environmental conditions, making them less suited for high-traffic areas or spaces prone to spills and stains.

B- Synthetic/Polyolefin Textile Wallpaper:

On the other hand, synthetic or polyolefin textile wallpapers mimic the look and feel of natural textiles but are crafted from durable, easy-to-maintain synthetic fibers. This makes them ideal for high-traffic areas as they are more resistant to wear, stains, and moisture. Additionally, features like fire resistance and allergy-friendly coatings make them a practical choice for commercial spaces and busy households, providing the elegance of textiles without the upkeep.

Comparison:

When comparing natural and synthetic textile wallpapers, the choice often boils down to prioritizing aesthetics and environmental considerations versus durability and ease of maintenance. Natural textile wallpapers offer stunning beauty and a natural feel, perfect for calm and controlled spaces. Synthetics may mimic the look and warmth of natural fibers, but they are more durable and easier to maintain, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or harsh environments. The best choice of wallpaper depends on the specific needs of the space, the desired atmosphere, and practical considerations like wear and tear.

Note:

• Textile wallpaper is affected by moisture; hence, it quickly absorbs odors and needs cleaning to keep it fresh.
• Textile interior wallpaper only requires dry cleaning and vacuuming. You cannot clean this wallpaper with water.

5- Grasscloth Wallpaper:

Grasscloth wallpaper is a unique type of wall covering made from natural materials such as jute, arrowroot, hemp, seagrass, bamboo, and sisal. Sisal is highly valued in the production of grasscloth wallpaper for its robustness and excellent dye absorption properties. Jute is another commonly used material known for its fibers, which are thicker and softer than those of sisal, providing a similar appearance. Wallpapers made from seagrass and bamboo, on the other hand, exhibit a more pronounced texture. These natural fibers are intricately woven together and then affixed to a backing, creating a distinctive wallpaper finish.

One of the standout features of grasscloth wallpaper is its unique appearance and its higher cost, attributed to the handcrafted process, which makes it one of the most expensive wallpaper options available. Unlike wallpapers produced by machines, each roll of grasscloth displays subtle variations in color due to the natural inconsistency of the materials used. The presence of seams is considered an integral part of its aesthetic appeal, contributing to its natural charm. It's important to note that a real grasscloth differs significantly from its faux counterpart, which merely imitates the look of a genuine grasscloth.

Grasscloth is generally thicker than most other types of wallpaper. It lacks pre-applied paste, necessitating the use of a specific type of adhesive and the expertise of an experienced installer for proper application. Care must be taken during installation to prevent visible glue stains. Although grasscloth wallpaper is visually appealing, it requires careful cleaning, such as gentle vacuuming to remove dust. It is available in a variety of colors, making it an excellent choice for an accent wall. However, its susceptibility to damage makes it less suitable for high-traffic areas.

Lastly, grasscloth wallpaper is known for emitting a natural, grassy aroma that enhances the ambiance of a room with a rich, organic, and soothing vibe.

6- Wood Veneer Wallpaper:

Wood veneer wallpaper is made from real wood veneer. A wood veneer consists of thin slices of wood, typically thinner than 3mm (1/8 inch), that are either peeled, sliced, or sawn from a log or block of wood. These slices are then affixed to a backing material, which can be paper, another wood product, or a different substrate, to create the wallpaper. This process allows the natural beauty and texture of wood grain to be showcased on walls, giving spaces a warm and sophisticated look.

These blends of natural beauty and practical benefits make it an increasingly popular choice for both builders and designers. As part of the biophilic design movement, which emphasizes the incorporation of natural materials and forms to foster well-being, wood veneer wallpaper stands out for its ability to create a sense of warmth and comfort. This not only aids in reducing stress and anxiety but also encourages positive social interactions.

Among its advantages, wood veneer is environmentally friendly, utilizing a sustainable resource with a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional building materials. It is remarkably versatile, allowing for customization in color, pattern, and design, and can adapt to various architectural features like columns and curved walls without losing its integrity. 

Additionally, wood veneer proves to be durable, withstanding impacts and everyday wear while maintaining its aesthetic appeal over time. Installation is straightforward, similar to traditional wallcoverings, requiring no special tools, which makes it a practical option for a wide range of projects.

Conclusion

Wallpapers can dramatically change the look and feel of a room. Each type of wallpaper offers distinct advantages, whether in terms of durability, ease of installation, or aesthetic appeal. By understanding the characteristics of these different types of wallcoverings, you can make an informed decision that best suits your style and functional needs, ensuring a beautiful and lasting impact on your walls.

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