The short answer
Moisture Is the Main Cause
Moisture is the most common reason wallpaper seams lift. When humidity in the air is high, or when water seeps behind the paper from a leak, the adhesive softens and loses its grip. The seam is the weakest point, so it pulls away first.
Look for signs of water damage near the peeling areas, such as stains, bubbling, or a musty smell. If you find any, the source could be a pipe leak, a roof leak, or condensation. Fixing the moisture problem is the first step before you touch the wallpaper.
Other Reasons Seams Lift
Sometimes the issue is not water but poor installation. If the paste was applied too thinly or the paper was not pressed firmly, seams can peel over time. Also, walls that expand and contract with temperature changes can stress the adhesive.
Another possibility is that the wallpaper is old and the adhesive has simply degraded. In that case, the paper may need to be removed and replaced. To know for sure, gently lift the edge and feel the back. If it is dry and powdery, age is likely the cause.
- High indoor humidity from cooking or showers
- A slow leak behind the wall
- Poor adhesive application during install
- Temperature swings causing wall movement
- Old wallpaper with dried-out paste
- Condensation on cold exterior walls
Repairing the Seams Yourself
For minor peeling, you can re-glue the seam with wallpaper adhesive. Clean the surface, apply a thin layer of adhesive to the back of the paper, and press it firmly. Wipe away any excess with a damp sponge. Let it dry completely.
If the paper is wrinkled or the wall is damaged, you may need to patch the wall first. Use a primer or sizing before re-applying the paper. For large areas, consider removing the wallpaper and starting fresh. The pros can handle this if the job feels too big.
When to Call the Pros
If the peeling is widespread or you find water damage behind the paper, it is time to call local water damage pros. They can dry out the wall, remove damaged material, and prepare the surface for new wallpaper. They also have the right equipment to detect hidden moisture.
In Redmond, the wet climate means moisture problems are not uncommon. If you have had a leak or flooding, the pros can help with structural drying and dehumidification to prevent mold. They can also inspect for water damage that you might not see.
- Widespread peeling across multiple walls
- Signs of mold or mildew behind the paper
- Wall feels soft or spongy to the touch
- Water stains or discoloration around seams
- Recent flooding or a burst pipe
- Persistent musty odor in the room
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Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
Can I just glue the seam back down?
Yes, for minor peeling you can use wallpaper adhesive. Clean the area, apply a thin layer, and press firmly. But if the wall is damp or the paper is old, gluing may not hold for long. Fix the moisture issue first.
Will the peeling come back after I fix it?
If you do not address the underlying moisture, the seams will likely peel again. Make sure the room is well-ventilated and humidity is controlled. If the cause was a leak, repair that first. Otherwise, the problem may recur.
Should I remove all the wallpaper if it is peeling?
If only a few seams are peeling, you can repair them. But if the paper is old or the wall has water damage, removal may be better. Removing all the paper lets you inspect and repair the wall, then install new wallpaper cleanly.