Surface analysis
Surface analysis. Surface properties and related problems
How should the surface be prepared?
For a successful wallpaper application, the substrate must be dry, rigid, at the same time hygroscopic, clean and even. With light-coloured wallpapers, the surface should be a uniform white colour. Accordingly, for the application of such wallpapers, the surface must be even and uniform in tone.
Wet surface
A damp substrate is not suitable for wallpapering or any other type of coating. Mould often forms quickly on damp surfaces and can damage and deteriorate the building material.
If you try to apply wallpaper to a damp wall, this will cause the edges to separate at the folds and will also impair the adhesion of the wallpaper to the surface directly at the folds.
How do I know if the surface is damp and what to do? |
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Analysis |
Action to be taken |
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Durability
During surface delamination (plaster, dispersion paint, chalk dust), the adhesive strength of the wallpaper cannot be guaranteed. Joints or even whole strips may peel away from the surface and damage the overall picture.
How do I know if a surface is unstable and what to do? |
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Analysis |
Measures to be taken |
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Sticky layers
Sticky layers - accumulation of adhesive substances on the substrate surface which hinders the application of durable wallpaper and other wall coverings.
How do I know if there are adhesive layers on the surface? |
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Analysis |
Measures to be taken |
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Ability to absorb moisture
Moisture absorption is a crucial factor for the successful application of wallpaper. If the substrate has too poor an absorption capacity or is no longer able to absorb moisture, the surface in question is not suitable for wallpapering, as this will not ensure adhesion to the substrate.
Problems also arise if the surface has too much moisture absorption. Various difficulties may then arise in the process of adhering the wallpaper, as the adhesive is absorbed too quickly into the substrate and excessive surface tension is generated, which may create gaps at the interfaces.
How do I know if a surface has a high/low moisture absorption capacity? |
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Analysis |
Measures to be taken |
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Rough surface
Rough and uneven surfaces shine through the applied wallpaper, so that the wallpaper does not provide a sufficient surface effect when the repair is complete.
How do I know if the surface is not smooth or clean enough? |
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Analysis |
Action to be taken |
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Alkaline surface
Alkaline surfaces such as new plaster or concrete are not suitable for bonding grass wallpaper, bronze wallpaper or metallic coloured wallpaper. Using other wallpapers may also cause fading which will appear as spots on the wallpaper.
How do I know if the surface is alkaline? |
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Analysis |
Action to be taken |
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Cracked surface
Cracks on walls and ceilings can adversely affect the process and result of wallpapering.
What if there are cracks on the surface? |
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Types of cracks |
Measures to take |
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Fungal damage
Mould can occur in areas where the environment is favourable for the existence of fungal nutrients and moisture.
What if the surface shows signs of fungal damage? |
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Reasons |
Action to be taken |
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Fading
White salt discolouration on the plaster surface is caused, for example, by increased humidity in the horizontal insulation, loose brickwork or damage caused by exposure to water.
What if faded spots appear on the surface? |
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Reason |
Action to be taken |
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