For many homeowners (and homeowners to be), the decision between painting walls and wallpaper comes down to aesthetics.
That being said, there are also practical aspects worth considering – wallpaper costs, longevity, climate, and application will also factor into the decision of wall decor.
There’s a common misconception that wallpaper does not last as long as painted walls. So, how long can wallpaper last, and how can homeowners extend the lifespan of wallpaper in their home?
Average Wallpaper Lifespan in Singapore
With the right care and maintenance, wallpaper can last for up to 15 years.
In Singapore, the average lifespan for wallpaper is about 7 to 10 years.
This estimate is based on wallpaper manufactured in seasonal countries (Korea, Japan, and Europe) that are designed to withstand temperature and moisture changes.
Despite homes in Singapore typically housing a humid environment, wallpaper can still last for years without replacement. High quality wallpaper should offer moisture-resistant materials that resist common issues like moisture, peeling, or bubbling.
In comparison, painted walls typically need a refresh every 3-5 years, particularly in high-traffic areas where discolouration or staining can occur. In many cases, a well-installed wallpaper can last longer than paint without needing any touch-ups.
Factors That Affect How Long Wallpaper Lasts
1. Type of Material
The most common wallpaper materials are regular, non-woven, and paper-backed vinyl wallpaper.
Regular wallpaper is made up of thin paper sheets that can be prone to water damage. Regular wallpaper is the least expensive, but is more likely to experience issues such as peeling, bubbling and tearing.
Non-woven wallpaper is made with a mix of natural and synthetic fibres over a paper base. Non-woven wallpaper will not deform or change shape over time, and has a breathable texture that provides resistance to moisture-retention.
Paper-backed vinyl wallpaper uses paper that is treated with a layer of acrylic vinyl, which makes it highly-resistant to staining. Paper-backed vinyl wallpaper is also non-absorbent, meaning it can be washed and scrubbed without worry of water-damage.
Non-woven and paper-backed vinyl wallpaper are the two options with a longer lifespan due to the durability of the material.
2. Care & Maintenance
Singapore’s humidity poses a challenge for wallpaper maintenance as moisture in the air can weaken the adhesive. This is less of a problem for non-woven and paper-backed vinyl wallpaper, but proper care and maintenance will help to minimise moisture damage.
Like any surface in the home, wallpaper should be cleaned occasionally to prevent the buildup of stains or grime. Wiping down with water each week is enough to keep the wallpaper’s print looking new.
3. Quality of Installation
The proficiency and expertise of the installer plays a key role in determining the lifespan of wallpaper.
Even the best quality wallpaper can start peeling or develop bubbles under the surface if it is not installed properly.
Wallpaper must be precisely measured and cut to fit the surface of the wall, as any gap or excess can be an entry point for moisture to seep in and weaken the adhesive.
Professional installation is the best way to ensure that wallpaper lasts for as long as possible. DIY jobs often miss out on key steps of the wallpaper installation process, meaning that wallpaper will need to be replaced more frequently.
4. Where the Wallpaper Is Installed
Some parts of the home are better suited for wallpaper – the living room, bedrooms, and study are all areas where wallpaper can provide the best visual enhancement.
Wallpaper can have a shorter lifespan when installed in bathrooms and kitchens. Consistent exposure to moisture, oils, and stains can degrade the wallpaper material quicker than usual.
How to Extend the Lifespan of Wallpaper
Professionally-installed wallpaper can easily last between 10 and 15 years with the right care and placement. To make the most out of your wallpaper and ensure it looks great and stands the test of time, here are some simple tips to follow:
- Use fans and keep the window open when possible to ventilate rooms with wallpaper
- Place dehumidifiers in areas where moisture tends to build up
- Choose either non-woven or paper-backed vinyl wallpaper
- Wipe down wallpaper surfaces with a wet cloth at least once a week
- Remove stains as soon as possible – stains can set into the wallpaper if left for a long period
Craft Axis is a wallpaper specialist in Singapore with a catalogue of over 3000 different wallpaper designs from Europe, Japan, and Korea. We have non-woven and paper-backed vinyl wallpaper with high moisture and mould resistance, as well as noise-reduction.
Partner with us for professional wallpaper installation in your home – we can provide you with a personalised consultation to develop custom mural wallpapers for your home that last for years to come.
