Wallpaper installation can feel like a quick weekend refresh—or a never-ending DIY rabbit hole. So, how long does wallpaper installation take? The truth is, it depends. From the size of your space to the type of wallpaper you’re using, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
But don’t worry—we’re breaking down everything you need to know, with a touch of reality and a dose of helpful tips. Whether you’re hiring a pro or doing it yourself, this guide will help you plan smarter and avoid common mistakes.
The Real Deal with Wallpaper Installation Time
Wallpaper installation isn’t just about slapping paper on a wall. It’s part prep, part patience, and part precision. If you’re working with a small accent wall in a powder room, you might be done in two to three hours. But if you’re revamping a large living room or stairway wall with textured wallpaper or murals, expect a full day—or even two.
Let’s say you’re working on a 12×12-foot room. If you’re experienced and everything goes smoothly, wallpaper installation could take 6 to 8 hours. However, if you’re dealing with crooked walls, multiple doorways, or detailed patterns that require matching, tack on a few more hours. The key here? Don’t rush. Rushing is the fastest way to waste expensive wallpaper rolls—and patience.
Preparation Time: The Silent Time-Taker
Before the first strip of wallpaper even goes up, you’ll spend a good chunk of time getting your walls ready. And yes, wallpaper installation prep is non-negotiable. This includes removing old wallpaper, sanding the walls, wiping down dust, and applying primer if needed. Even minor imperfections can show through some wallpaper types, especially thin or light-colored varieties.
So, how long does prep take? For a medium-sized room, wall prep might take anywhere from 2 to 5 hours, depending on the condition of your walls. Professionals often include this in their total timeline, while DIYers might underestimate this stage—and pay for it later in wrinkles or air bubbles.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: A Time Comparison
If you’re planning to take on wallpaper installation yourself, set realistic expectations from the start. For a beginner, wallpaper installation in a full room could easily take 10 to 12 hours or more. This includes time spent learning the process, taking breaks, adjusting mistakes, and getting used to the physical demands, like reaching up high, carefully cutting around corners, and smoothing out every seam. Even experienced DIYers need extra time when dealing with pattern matching or tricky wall layouts.
In contrast, a professional wallpaper installer can complete the same job in about 6 to 8 hours, prep included. Their experience with wallpaper installation allows them to work quickly and precisely. They know how to navigate obstacles like electrical outlets, windows, or uneven walls without losing time. If you’re using high-end wallpaper like grasscloth, textured vinyl, or silk, a pro ensures fewer mistakes and less material waste.
Wallpaper Type Changes Everything
One of the biggest factors that determines wallpaper installation time is the type of wallpaper itself. Peel-and-stick wallpaper might sound like a dream for beginners, but it can be trickier to align perfectly. Traditional paste wallpaper gives you a little more wiggle room to reposition but takes longer to dry and set.
If you’re using mural wallpaper or a large-scale print, matching patterns between strips becomes essential—and time-consuming. A simple geometric pattern might be quick to align, but anything with scenery, florals, or landscapes requires more careful measuring and adjustment. Some installers say that pattern matching alone can add 30% more time to your project.
Common Delays That Sneak Up on You
Even with the best planning, wallpaper installation can hit a few snags. The paste might take longer to set due to humidity. The wallpaper could tear while cutting around corners or outlets. You might even run out of paper mid-project due to miscalculations.
That’s why pros always recommend adding a 10–20% buffer to your time estimate. So if you think it’ll take a day, give yourself a day and a half. Better to be surprised with extra time than stuck with a half-finished wall when guests arrive.
Can You Do It in One Day?
Yes, wallpaper installation can be completed in one day, but only under the right conditions. A small room, smooth walls, and a simple wallpaper design? Doable. But if you’re aiming for perfection and dealing with high-traffic or high-visibility areas, take your time.
People often underestimate how long it takes just to cut and align wallpaper around tricky areas like windows, door frames, or built-in shelves. These spots can slow you down big time. A typical scenario: you start early in the morning and wrap up by dinner. But if anything goes wrong or life interrupts, you might need a second day to finish or clean up.
Actionable Tips to Speed Up the Process
To make your wallpaper installation more efficient, here are a few real-world tips:
- Measure your wall dimensions twice, cut once.
- Always buy extra wallpaper (about 10–15% more than you think you need).
Use a laser level or chalk line to keep things straight. - Let each strip “relax” (especially paste-the-wall types) for the suggested time before hanging.
- Have all your tools ready: smoothing brush, utility knife, straight edge, sponge, and a damp cloth.
A smooth install isn’t just about speed—it’s about setting the stage for a long-lasting, bubble-free finish.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, wallpaper installation isn’t a race—it’s a transformation. Yes, it takes time, but every minute spent smoothing, aligning, and prepping adds to the final result. The truth is, great wallpaper changes the energy of a room.
It adds personality, depth, and even value to your home. And once it’s up, you’ll likely forget the hours you spent sweating over seams and smoothing out air bubbles.
Also Read: How to Incorporate Warm Tones in Your Home with Designer Wallpaper
