Is it possible to use wallpaper in tropical climates?

Dear Abigail,
Many of our customers living in tropical or sub-tropical climates share your concern. All that lush greenery and balmy weather is a dream for many of us living in colder countries, but the high humidity levels create a bit of a challenge for interior decorators and DIY enthusiast alike. The main detrimental effects of excessive humidity are peeling, as high moisture weakens the adhesive, and moisture trapped under the wallpaper surface leads to unsightly air bubbles and indeed mould growth. The good news is that, if you follow my advice, it is possible to navigate around all these challenges. Let’s get straight into the details!

Which wallpaper should I choose if I live in a humid, tropical climate?

Different wallpaper materials react differently to humidity, so choosing the right wallpaper type can make a huge difference in a tropical environment. While aesthetics plays a part, you need to consider which material is best suited to withstand moisture. Some models, especially those designed to be used in bathrooms and kitchens, are specifically labelled as "humidity-resistant" or "suitable for high-moisture areas". Always make sure you check for these labels in the description of the wallpaper in which you are interested. When it comes to resistance to humidity, nothing beats the following materials:

• Vinyl-coated wallpapers
  Vinyl-coated wallpapers come with a layer of vinyl that acts as a protective shield against humidity. As vinyl repels moisture, it makes it an excellent choice for tropical climates. Besides being resistant to peeling and air bubbles, they are easy to clean, i.e. you can wipe away condensation and moisture. However, being non-breathable they require extra attention when it comes to protecting the wall from mould growth.
• Non-woven wallpapers
  Non-woven wallpapers, made from a blend of natural and synthetic fibres, are one of the most moisture-resistant options available. They do not absorb water, preventing issues like mould growth, and are very stable, making them ideal for humid environments. Their breathability also helps against mildew as they allow moisture to escape, preventing it from getting trapped between the wallpaper and the wall.

Can I install Peel & Stick wallpaper in humid climates?

Easy to install and remove and not requiring any expertise to put up on the wall, peel & stick wall décor has become a popular option around the world. In tropical climates it is best to choose high-end Peel and Stick varieties with a non-woven backing and ensure the surface is thoroughly dry before application. Since the adhesive strength of their backing is not as strong as standard wallpapering paste, I suggest using them in areas where humidity is relatively controlled, such as air-conditioned rooms or spaces with proper ventilation.

How do I prevent mould on my wallpaper if I live in a tropical climate?

As discussed above, the very first thing to do is to pick a mould- and mildew-resistant wallpaper. However, this is just the starting point:

• Not all walls are the same
  When it comes to mould growth, not all wall surfaces are the same. Stone-based materials like concrete or gypsum are less susceptible to fungal growth than wood-based materials like plywood, MDF or woodchip. If you have the option, try to avoid wallpapering the latter.
• Proper ventilation is key
  Mould loves humid, stagnant environments, so proper aeration and/or air conditioning are the best way to combat it. Investing in a good AC system not only keeps the indoor climate cool but, more importantly, also helps to reduce humidity levels. If you don’t own an AC system, make it a habit to open the windows regularly to let air circulate around the rooms.
• Avoid overcrowding the room
  Try to ensure there is always enough space between the furniture and the wallpapered walls, particularly in rooms with heavy furniture. You want to ensure air can circulate freely.
• Clean regularly
  As dust and dirt provide a breeding ground for mould, clean your walls frequently with a mild detergent to prevent dirt buildup.
• Harness the power of sunlight
  Sunlight is a natural mould deterrent. Keep your curtains open during the early and late hours of the day. Avoid direct sunlight in the middle of the day, as it can cause fading.

What do I do if there’s mould on the wall I want to wallpaper?

If you notice there’s already some mould appearing on the surface you plan to wallpaper, do not despair but act quickly. The worst you can do is to ignore it or wait until the problem becomes unmanageable. We have put together an extremely detailed in-depth article in our blog, describing all the steps you should take. To find out more, please refer to Help! Mould on the walls! What you need to consider before starting your wallpapering project.

How do I install wallpaper in a humid, tropical place?

Installing a wallpaper in a tropical climate requires a bit more preparation than in drier areas. Here are my tips for successful installation:

• Invest in a moisture meter
  It’s not a bad idea to invest in a moisture meter; they are not particularly expensive and allow you to check if your wall is suitable for wallpaper installation. As a general rule, the moisture level of the wall should not be over 4%. If your wall is above this level, you should call in a specialist and address the issue before you proceed with the wallpapering project.
• Prep the wall before wallpapering
  While careful preparation of the wall is important for any wallpapering project, it is truly essential in humid, tropical climates. The first thing you want to do is to ensure that the surface is clean and dry. Use a mild detergent solution to clean the wall thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before applying the wallpaper. Inspect the wall and make sure there are no traces of mould or mildew. If you do find some, they should be treated immediately. Mould needs moisture in order to grow, so you don’t want to treat the wall with an impermeable primer that will trap any underlying humidity. Instead, opt for a permeable primer which will create a porous texture that enables air to circulate through.
• Acclimatise your wallpaper
  To avoid warping and other unwanted side-effects of tropical heat and humidity, a good way to counteract them is to allow the wallpaper to “acclimatise” properly for a few hours before installation. This sounds complicated, but all it means is to allow the wallpaper to adjust to the climate of the room, so that it will expand or contract accordingly. Remember to lay the rolls out flat and do not stack them. The acclimatisation time is different from wallpaper to wallpaper, and it is often mentioned in the manufacturer’s information. While some models don’t need it at all, the general rule is to wait for 24 to 48 hours before starting your wallpapering project.
• Make sure temperature and humidity are consistent
  Remember that a decoration job is not finished when you have installed the last strip of wallpaper but when it is fully dry! Too many people forget this and switch off the aircon once they leave the room. Fluctuations in both temperature and humidity are the enemy! They cause the wallpaper to shrink and expand, resulting in open seams and the adhesive not working as it should. Maintaining the same room climate for at least 24/48 hours after you finished wallpapering is essential.

Your wallpaper expert
Isabel