Wall murals are an exciting way to add personality and style to any space. They have the power to transform a room, making it feel more vibrant, cozy, or sophisticated. However, the installation process can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the techniques involved. Don’t worry—this guide is here to help!
We’ll walk you through the proven techniques to install wall murals like a pro, so you can achieve a flawless finish that will last.
Preparation Before Installation
Before diving into the installation, proper planning and preparation are crucial. After all, this stage sets the foundation for a successful mural application and helps avoid any potential pitfalls.
Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
Measuring and Planning
Start by measuring the wall on which you plan to install the mural. Accurate measurements ensure your mural fits perfectly and prevent any surprises during installation.
- Measure the Height and Width: Use a measuring tape to get the exact dimensions of your wall. Make sure to measure at multiple points to account for any variations.
- Plan the Layout: Sketch out the mural’s placement on paper or use an online tool to visualize how it will look on your wall. This helps you plan the best position and avoid issues with obstacles like windows or outlets.
Gathering the Necessary Tools and Materials
Having the right tools and materials on hand makes the installation process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Tools:
- Measuring tape
- Level or a laser level
- Pencil for marking positions
- Smoothing tool or plastic scraper
- Utility knife or scissors for trimming
- Materials:
- Primer (if needed)
- Adhesive (for non-self-adhesive murals)
- Drop cloths to protect the floor
Preparing the Wall Surface
The wall must be clean and smooth for the mural to adhere properly. You can follow the below steps to prep your wall:
- Clean the Wall: Wipe down the wall with a damp cloth to remove any dust, dirt, or grease. A clean surface ensures better adhesion.
- Repair Any Damage: Fill in any holes or cracks with a spackle and sand them smooth. A smooth surface prevents bumps and bubbles in the mural.
- Apply Primer: If the wall has been recently painted, it’s a good idea to apply a primer. This helps the mural stick better and last longer.
Related Post: Wall Painting Tips to Ensure a Flawless Finish
5 Proven Techniques to Install Wall Murals Like a Professional
Now that your wall is prepped and ready, it’s time to start the installation. These proven techniques will guide you through the process, ensuring a professional finish.
Starting with the Right Alignment
Getting the alignment right is crucial for a professional look. Here’s how to ensure your mural is perfectly straight:
- Use a Level or Laser Level: Mark a straight line on the wall where you’ll start applying the mural. This line will be your guide to ensure everything stays level.
- Align from the Top: Start by aligning the top of the mural with your marked line. If your mural comes in panels, align the first panel and use it as a reference for the rest.
Handling Different Types of Murals
Different materials require different handling techniques. Below are some ways you can work with the most common types:
- Vinyl Murals: Peel back a small section of the backing and start applying from the top, smoothing as you go to avoid bubbles. Work slowly, peeling and smoothing in sections.
- Paper-Based Murals: Apply adhesive to the back of the mural or the wall, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions. Start from the top and work your way down, smoothing out any wrinkles.
- Self-Adhesive Fabric Murals: These are the easiest to install. Simply peel off the backing and stick the mural to the wall, repositioning as needed to get the perfect fit.
Applying Adhesive or Self-Adhesive Murals
Applying the mural correctly ensures it sticks firmly and looks flawless. Let’s see how to do it:
- Even Adhesive Application: If you’re using an adhesive mural, apply the adhesive evenly across the entire wall. Use a roller for large areas and a brush for edges.
- Applying Self-Adhesive Murals: Start by peeling off a small section of the backing. Stick the top edge of the mural to the wall and slowly peel away the backing as you smooth the mural onto the wall.
Smoothing and Eliminating Air Bubbles
Smoothing the mural is more than essential for a professional finish. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a Smoothing Tool: As you apply the mural, use a smoothing tool to press out any air bubbles. Work from the center outwards to ensure a flat, smooth surface.
- Eliminating Wrinkles: If you notice wrinkles forming, gently lift the mural and reposition it, smoothing as you go.
Trimming Excess Material
Once the mural is up, you may need to trim any excess material to get a clean finish:
- Trim Carefully: Use a sharp utility knife or scissors to trim the edges of the mural. Be careful around corners, outlets, and windows to avoid damaging the mural or the wall.
- Handling Obstacles: For areas around outlets or light switches, cut a small X in the mural over the outlet and trim the flaps back, then smooth the edges around the outlet.
Post-Installation Tips
After the mural is up, there are a few things you should do to ensure it looks great and lasts a long time. These tips will help you maintain your mural for years to come. Such as the following:
- Give the mural at least 24-48 hours to settle before touching it or placing furniture against it. This helps prevent bubbles or peeling.
- If your mural is in direct sunlight, consider using UV-blocking curtains or blinds to prevent fading.
- Keep an eye on the mural as it settles, checking for any areas that may need smoothing or additional adhesive.
- If bubbles appear later, use a pin to puncture the bubble and smooth it out. For wrinkles, gently lift the mural and reposition it, smoothing it as you go.
- If the edges start to peel, apply a small amount of adhesive and press them back into place, holding for a few seconds to ensure a strong bond.
- Dust the mural regularly with a soft cloth. For vinyl and self-adhesive murals, you can use a damp cloth for a deeper clean, but avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the material.
Related Post: How to Use Damp Clothes for Best Cleaning Results
Wrapping Up
Installing a wall mural like a pro might seem complicated, but with the right techniques and tools, it’s entirely achievable.
Just make sure to take the time to plan, prepare, and execute each step carefully and you will be all good to create a stunning focal point in any room that looks like it was done by a professional.
However, as always, the key to success is in the details—so don’t rush the process.
As with these above-mentioned proven techniques, you’ll be well on your way to transforming your space with a beautiful, perfectly installed wall mural.