Sloping ceiling: how to hang wallpaper? Tips and tricks
Decorating a room under the eaves or in a room with a sloping wall always represents a technical challenge, especially when it comes to wallpapering. Yet, revamping this type of space brings a lot of charm and optimizes the cocoon feeling, perfect for a child's room. Thanks to my experience as an interior decorator specializing in children's decor, I share all my tips for successful wallpapering on a sloping wall here. Preparation, choice of suitable wallpaper, specific techniques, and appropriate tools: each step is important to transform these atypical surfaces into personalized decors.
What are the specificities of the sloping wall?
The sloping wall, common in attic rooms, is distinguished by its sloping slope, which often reduces the available vertical height. This implies particular constraints when wallpapering a sloping wall. In general, the surface is neither completely straight nor completely flat, which influences the choice of paper and the method of installation.
These spaces often have acute angles or breaks between the ceiling, slope, and straight wall return. It is therefore essential to identify the exact dimensions and the precise layout of the area to be wallpapered, to avoid any unpleasant surprises when cutting or matching patterns. Advance planning greatly simplifies the task and ensures a harmonious finish.
Preparing the surface before installing sloping wallpaper
Preparing the wall is one of the crucial steps to ensure a perfect installation, especially on a sometimes irregular sloping wall. Before starting, always clean the surface and make sure it is dry and dust-free. A putty can be applied if the wall has visible defects or roughness.
Good adhesion also depends on the porosity of the surface. If the wall has already been painted with a glossy or satin finish, light sanding followed by dusting will improve the adhesion of the glue. Don't forget to apply a primer undercoat for porous walls if necessary; this prevents the glue from being absorbed too quickly, which could prevent the paper from adhering properly.
- Wash and completely dry the surface.
- Fill holes or cracks with putty, let dry, then sand if necessary.
- Dust with a soft cloth.
- Check the flatness and treat any mold in the humid attic areas.
- Apply a primer undercoat when the wall is new, very absorbent, or previously painted.
Choosing the right wallpaper for sloping walls
There are several types of wallpaper, but not all of them are necessarily suitable for installation on a sloping or "under slope" wall. The choice of patterns and colors also plays an important role, especially to optimize the impression of space or enhance the desired decorative style.
Non-woven wallpapers are recommended for their ease of installation and their ability to hide small irregularities in the support. They allow for direct pasting on the wall, greatly reducing the risk of bubbles. Among the alternatives, panoramic wallpaper is attractive for its spectacular effect. However, it requires precision and anticipation because the cutting must perfectly match the lines of the design along the entire length of the slope.
| Type of wallpaper | Ease of installation | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-woven | Very easy | Pasting on the wall, robust, hides imperfections | Sensitivity to certain chemicals |
| Classic (paper) | Medium | Attractive price, various finishes | Requires pasting the strips, less covering |
| Vinyl | Easy | Moisture-resistant, easy to clean | Sometimes thicker, difficult to cut cleanly under slope |
| Panoramic | Technical | Strong decorative effect, ideal for creating an ambiance | Delicate cutting and matching, higher cost |
Taking measurements and cutting for a successful sloping angle
How to make the cut and take the right measurements?
On a sloping wall, the precision of the measurements determines the final result. Use a flexible tape measure to follow the slope and note the minimum and maximum heights of the section to be wallpapered. Add at least 5 to 10 centimeters extra at the top and bottom to anticipate the margin for trimming during the installation of sloping wallpaper.
For wallpaper cutting and measurements, mark the references on the back of the strip with a pencil according to the exact slope. Ideally, first present the strip against the wall, then mark the cutting line following the actual angle. Always use a sharp pair of scissors or a cutter with a metal ruler to obtain clean edges.
How to start the installation on a sloping wall?
Many professionals recommend starting with the highest wall or by marking a straight vertical reference line, in the center or on a less visible side. This method ensures good perpendicularity and neat joints. Apply the first strip carefully, as it will serve as a reference for the following ones.
In the presence of complex patterns or panoramic wallpaper, start at the point where the designs must absolutely coincide, often at the level of a window or a central section. Progress gradually, respecting the alignments, and adjust the cutting at each joint if necessary.
Essential tools, pasting, and tips for installation in attic spaces
Proper equipment greatly simplifies work in angled spaces. Favor:
- Wallpapering table (foldable for limited space).
- Non-abrasive smoothing spatula.
- Wallpaper brush.
- Precision cutter, long scissors, and metal ruler.
- Glue suitable for the selected type of paper.
- Bubble level or plumb line.
Also, remember to protect the floor with a tarp and to provide a stable step ladder to easily reach the top of the slope.
Which pasting techniques to favor under slope?
The pasting depends on the type of wallpaper chosen. Non-woven wallpapers require pasting only the wall - an ideal practice under a slope, as you can adjust the positioning quietly. For other formats, such as traditional wallpaper, paste each strip on the table and wait a few minutes for the glue to sufficiently soak the pattern before application.
Always start the installation of sloping wallpaper from the top of the wall, letting it overhang on the sloping part. After aligning it well, gently smooth down to chase away the air. In case of folds, lift the strip delicately to reposition it. Work in small sections if the setting time is fast.
Frequently asked questions about wallpapering on a sloping wall
Can all types of wallpaper be applied to a sloping wall?
Some types of wallpaper are better suited to sloping surfaces. Non-woven wallpaper offers the best maneuverability, as it allows pasting the wall and easily adjusting the strips, even under slope. Vinyl and panoramic models also work well but require more precision when cutting and matching. Here is a summary:
| Type | Recommended for sloping wall |
|---|---|
| Non-woven | Yes |
| Vinyl | Yes, with caution |
| Classic | Moderately recommended |
| Panoramic | Yes, advanced technique |
What mistakes should be avoided when wallpapering in attic spaces?
Common errors can compromise the final result on a sloping wall. Here are those to avoid:
- Neglecting surface preparation (soiling, humidity, or untreated irregularities).
- Using unsuitable wallpaper for the slope or the room conditions (humidity, temperature variation).
- Incorrectly measuring the surface, resulting in awkward cuts or material shortages.
- Forgetting to check the alignment of the patterns, especially with panoramic wallpaper.
- Not respecting the setting time after pasting traditional strips.
What patterns and colors should be favored on a sloping wall?
On a sloping wall, fine, light, or graphic patterns visually enlarge the space. Soft colors (off-white, pale blue, sage green) favor a soothing atmosphere, particularly appreciated in a child's room. Avoid overly busy or dark patterns that shrink the room:
- Geometric patterns to visually structure the slope.
- Vertical stripes to accentuate the height.
- Natural landscapes or illustrated scenes on panoramic wallpaper to open up the perspective.
What tips for a successful junction between the slope and the ceiling?
To care for the appearance at the junction, smooth the paper well using a plastic spatula, emphasizing the folded angle between the wall and the ceiling. Trim the excess with a well-sharpened cutter at the level of this break while the adhesion is still fresh. To camouflage a less neat joint, opt for a thin decorative strip or colored adhesive tape:
- Precise work with a cutting tool to match the shape of the angle.
- Avoid build-ups of glue on the joint to preserve the fine application.
- Systematically finish each strip before moving on to the next.
