What Is The Most Durable Wallpaper?

There are so many different types of wallpaper to choose from. New types of wallpaper, from peel and stick to adhesive, and from reusable to removable, have been invented. When selecting the best wallpaper option for your home or business, there are many factors that should be taken into account. A major question to think about, is whether or not you want the wallpaper to last.

A good, durable wallpaper can last for decades. There are some historic with wallpaper that has lasted over 100 years! But what kind of wallpaper is the right choice? The answer might surprise you. If you are looking for a long lasting and durable option, the clear winner is solid vinyl wallpaper. 

That’s right – the wallpaper type that was frequently used in kitchens and bathrooms in the 60’s and 70’s, is the most durable option today.

What most people don’t know, however, is that vinyl wallcovering has improved drastically over the years. Today, vinyl wallcovering is not limited to kitchen and bathroom walls. There are different types of vinyl paper that can be used for different purposes.

• Paper-backed/Solid Sheet vinyl. This option is typically a patterned wallpaper designed for residential rooms. Paper-backed vinyl is stain and grease resistant, and is very easy to clean. Do NOT select a paper-backed wallpaper for covering a bathroom wall, or in any room that generates a lot of steam. Too much moisture can weaken the paper, and cause the vinyl to separate from the paper back. This option can sometimes be hard to install, as the vinyl layer peels away from the paper backing. It can sometimes peel off in small pieces, which makes the installation process longer.
• Fabric-backed vinyl. Fabric-backed vinyl is arguably the most durable type of vinyl wallpaper as well, and is made of extremely dense fabric. It is typically sold in different color options or textures, since it is extremely difficult to print patterns onto the fabric. This wallpaper type can be very heavy, so is often a bit difficult to install. However, it can last many years and can be installed anywhere you choose. This option is optimal for areas such as hallways, bathrooms, kitchens, and stairways, and is seen in many hotel rooms as well.
• Digitally printed vinyl. Generally, this option is custom designed and printed with a realistic photo image of your choice. A digitally printed paper typically serves as a mural, and is able to be used in any area. This option is typically a very thin paper, and will require a paper liner to be placed underneath to keep the placement as smooth as possible.
• Vinyl-coated paper. A vinyl-coated wallpaper, technically is not vinyl. Rather, it is a wallpaper that is sprayed with a top layer of liquid vinyl. This is the best option for those looking for a detailed and patterned wallpaper. It is durable and cleans easily as well.

No matter which option you choose, a wallpaper is sure to change the look of any room. If you are looking for a long-lasting, and extremely durable wallpaper with an extra layer of protection, a solid vinyl wallcovering is the best option to choose.

Popular Solid Vinyl Collections

The following a list of the most popular solid vinyl collections. This is a great starting point if you are looking for the most durable residential wallpaper on the market. 

Warner Textures Collections  - 5 solid vinyl collections featuring grasscloth, weaves and faux textures. 

Wall Sculptures - Solid vinyl collection of geometric, leaf and stucco prints. 

Norwall - Over 20+ collections of solid vinyl wallpaper at fantastic price points.