The Comprehensive Guide to Choosing and Installing Commercial Wallcovering

Introduction to Wallscape Wallcovering

Welcome to the world of commercial wallcoverings from Wallscape, where durability meets design. Whether you’re revamping a hotel, office, or any public space, understanding the nuances of wallcovering can significantly enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your space.

Commercial Wallcovering vs. Wallpaper

The distinction between commercial wallcovering and typical wallpaper is profound. Commercial wallcoverings, like those from Wallscape, come in 54-inch wide rolls, offering a robust, thick texture with either fabric or non-woven backings. These products are designed for durability, featuring generic patterns suitable for high-traffic environments. They are fire code compliant, washable, and removable, making them ideal for commercial settings. In contrast, wallpaper, generally narrower at 20 or 27 inches, is thinner and more suited for residential use, lacking the durability and fire resistance required in public spaces VMSD.com

Quality Awareness in Commercial Wallcovering

When selecting commercial wallcoverings, the quality is paramount. Here are critical questions to ask:

Is it a Type II, 20oz Class A Wallcovering? This is your best choice for areas with heavy traffic due to its premium performance and fabric cotton backing.

Or is it a Type I, 15oz for lighter traffic? This might be more cost-effective but suitable only for areas with less wear.

Non-woven backings may offer less impact resistance and can be challenging to remove.

The Washability Factor

In maintaining commercial spaces, washability is crucial. Wallscape wallcoverings are designed to be cleaned with minimal effort, potentially lasting over a decade with proper care. Always test the washability claim by doing a simple wipe test on a sample.

Removability

One of the biggest advantages of commercial wallcovering is ease of removal. The fabric backing allows the wallcovering to be peeled off in sheets, leaving walls ready for a new installation or paint with little preparation.

Cost-Effectiveness Over Paint

For building owners, wallcovering can be a financial relief. Consider this: the cost of repainting high-traffic areas annually can be substantial. Wallcoverings from Wallscape, with their longevity, can save over $30,000 a year in a medium-sized hotel by eliminating frequent repaints.

Fire Ratings and Compliance

Commercial spaces come with the obligation to meet safety standards. Wallscape’s products pass stringent tests like the ASTM E 84 Tunnel Test for Class A fire ratings and undergo numerous cycles for color fastness and stain resistance, ensuring they meet or exceed building codes IIDA | International Interior Design Association

Measuring Your Space

Calculating the right amount of wallcovering is key to project success:

Measure the wall length and height.

Multiply these to get the square footage.

Divide by 11 to find the linear yards needed.

For example, an 8-foot high by 22-foot long wall requires 16 linear yards.

Surface Preparation

New walls might not need much prep, but older walls might require smoothing with spackle for an even finish. Always test a small area with your wallcovering to ensure the surface is ready.

Ideal Locations for Installation

Wallscape wallcoverings are versatile, fitting well in hotels, offices, corridors, restaurants, retail spaces, healthcare facilities, and even high-traffic residential areas. Their durability and aesthetic appeal make them a preferred choice across various environments Commercial Wallcovering Installation

After Choosing Your Pattern

Once you’ve selected your pattern:

Confirm the pattern number and request a control sample.

Check stock availability and ensure rolls are from the same dye lot for consistency in color and texture.

Remember, installation should proceed with rolls in sequential order to maintain a uniform look.

Choosing Wallscape for your commercial wallcovering needs means opting for quality, durability, and style. With our range of products, including quick-ship options, custom murals, and dry erase wallcoverings, you’re equipped to transform any space efficiently and beautifully. Visit our website, www.wallscapeinc.com, or reach out to our team for personalized assistance. Let Wallscape help you make a lasting impression!

Commercial Wallcovering FAQ

These frequently asked questions explain how to choose commercial wallcovering,
what to look for in terms of durability and compliance, and what to consider before installation.

What is the difference between commercial wallcovering and wallpaper?

Definition: Commercial wallcovering is a heavier-duty wall finish designed for public and high-traffic interiors, while wallpaper is generally a lighter decorative wall finish more commonly used in residential spaces.

Commercial wallcovering is typically wider, thicker, and built for performance in spaces such as hotels, offices, corridors, restaurants, retail stores, and healthcare settings. It is commonly selected for its durability, washability, removability, and code-compliant
performance, while standard wallpaper is usually more decorative and less suited to demanding commercial environments.

What should you look for when choosing commercial wallcovering?

Definition: Choosing commercial wallcovering means evaluating the product’s performance characteristics, backing type, and suitability for the traffic level and use of the space.

Important factors include whether the material is Type II or Type I, how much traffic the area receives, whether the product is washable, whether it can be removed cleanly later, and whether it meets required fire-rating standards. The page also emphasizes reviewing backing type, confirming the pattern number, requesting a control sample, and checking stock and dye lot consistency before installation.

What is the difference between Type I and Type II commercial wallcovering?

Definition: Type I and Type II are performance categories used to describe commercial wallcoverings based on durability and intended traffic conditions.

Type II commercial wallcovering is generally the stronger option for heavier-traffic environments and is often preferred for spaces that need premium durability and better impact resistance. Type I can be a more economical option for lighter-traffic areas, but it is typically chosen where the walls will see less wear.

Why are washability and removability important in commercial wallcovering?

Definition: Washability refers to how easily a wallcovering can be cleaned, while removability refers to how easily it can be taken off later without excessive wall damage or prep work.

These features are important because commercial interiors need to stay attractive over time while also remaining practical to maintain and update. Washable wallcovering can help extend the life of the installation in high-use spaces, and removable wallcovering can simplify future
renovations by allowing the material to be peeled off more cleanly when it is time to replace it or repaint.

What should be done before installing commercial wallcovering?

Definition: Pre-installation planning is the process of measuring the space, preparing the wall surface, and confirming product details before wallcovering is applied.

Before installation, the space should be measured carefully to calculate the quantity needed, and the wall surface should be evaluated for smoothness and readiness. Older walls may need additional preparation such as patching or smoothing. It is also important to confirm pattern
numbers, request a control sample, verify stock availability, and ensure the rolls come from the same dye lot so the finished installation looks consistent.