While the best way to get rid of air bubbles is to prevent them by following proper installation techniques, they can be an unfortunate part of any DIY wallcovering project. Naturally, if you take pride in your DIY abilities, you're going to want to learn how to fix air bubbles in wallpaper!
Air bubbles can be an unsightly feature underneath wallpaper
For a full guide to learning what causes these bubbles to form and how to prevent them, explore this article on how to properly prep a wall.
There are two things to keep in mind when it comes to fixing bubbled wallpaper: how long the wallpaper has been on the wall and the wallcovering/adhesive material you're using. If you just attached the panel to the wall, you should be able to reposition the panel immediately to smooth out the bubbles. Additionally, if you have a quality peel-and-stick or removable material, you may be able to simply reposition the wallpaper or wall mural. Always check with your manufacturer.
If neither of the above applies to you, here are the steps for fixing wallpaper bubbles!
Fixing Wallpaper Bubbles
1. Gather Materials
You will need:
- An X-Acto knife or similar cutting tool
- A damp cloth or sponge
- Wallpaper paste
- Syringe
2. Make Incision
Using the X-Acto or utility knife, cut a slit in the bubble.
3. Peel Back
Delicately pull back the flaps. If there is any debris preventing the covering from adhering to the wall, remove.
4. Re-Apply Adhesive
Using a syringe, inject adhesive into the slit. Apply generously, but carefully so not to oversaturate the area.
Apply light pressure to the area, pressing the bubbled area against the wall. If you have a seam roller, use that to close up the area.
5. Clean Area
Naturally, as with any project that uses adhesive, you have to clean off the excess adhesive quickly before it sets! Using a damp cloth or damp sponge, gently wipe off any excess wallpaper glue.
6. Repeat If Necessary
Rarely is there just one single bubble in the wallpaper! Follow these steps again for each bubble you come across because now you know how to fix air bubbles in wallpaper!