Which wallpaper adhesive should you choose for the right surface?
There are different types of wallpaper adhesive available on the market, but it is important to choose the correct adhesive that matches both the type of wallpaper and the substrate. Seeking the right advice from a local wallpaper specialist or DIY store is always a wise choice. The Decorazzi EcoMural wallpaper falls under the category of ‘heavy vinyl wallpaper’ for the intended adhesive type.
SPECIFICATION (general) WALLPAPER ADHESIVE:
Environment: for indoor walls
Average yield: ± 6 m²/kg
Substrate: plaster, rendering, plasterboard, stone, concrete, cement, wood
Minimum application temperature: 10°C
Maximum application temperature: 30°C
Always check the current specification on the packaging.

Which wallpaper adhesive matches which type of surface?
1. Absorbent surfaces
When working with an absorbent surface, such as a porous wall, it is important to treat it first with a primer or surface sealer. This ensures proper adhesion of the wallpaper. Let it dry for 8 hours. Then use an adhesive for “lightly absorbent surfaces”.
2. Lightly absorbent surfaces
For lightly absorbent surfaces, it is best to use a ready-to-use adhesive that is specifically suitable for heavy vinyl wallpaper. Recommended products include:
- Perfax wall adhesive ‘Vinyl and Textile’
- Flexxs-Medium
- Bison Ready & Easy wallpaper adhesive Vinyl/Paper
- Vescom 2500
3. Closed, non-absorbent surfaces
For closed surfaces such as painted finishes, exterior-quality wall paint, or metal, it is important to choose an adhesive that is specially designed for heavy vinyl wallpaper on non-absorbent surfaces. Note: these adhesives are very strong – avoid getting them on the wallpaper surface. If this happens, remove immediately with lukewarm water. Recommended products include:
- Vescom 3000
- Flexxs-High

How to determine the water absorption of a wall
You can easily test the absorbency of your wall by rubbing a damp sponge across it:
- Does the wall quickly and fully absorb the water? Then it’s an “absorbent surface” and the wall needs to be primed or sealed first. This is always the case with freshly plastered walls. After about 8 hours you can start wallpapering using adhesive for “lightly absorbent surfaces”.
- Does the wall become only slightly damp? In that case, you can use wallpaper adhesive for “lightly absorbent surfaces”. This also applies to walls painted with matte wall paint.
- Does the water run off the wall in thin streams? This indicates a closed, non-absorbent surface for which you need an adhesive that is specifically suitable for closed surfaces. Always follow the instructions on the adhesive packaging.
