The short answer
What Causes Seam Peeling
The most common reason seams lift is moisture getting behind the paper. This can come from a slow pipe leak, a roof leak, or even high humidity in the room. When the adhesive gets wet, it loses its stickiness and the paper pulls away from the wall.
Heat and steam also play a part. If you run hot showers or boil pots without ventilation, the moisture in the air can penetrate the seams. Over time, the paper expands and contracts, which weakens the bond at the edges first.
Dry the Wall First
Before you try to fix the seams, the wall must be dry. If the wallpaper is still wet, any adhesive you apply will not hold. Use a dehumidifier or a fan to dry the area for a few days. You can also gently heat the room, but avoid high heat that can shrink the paper.
If the moisture came from a leak, you need to stop the leak first. A plumber can fix a pipe issue, and a roofer can address a roof problem. Once the source is dry, you can assess whether the wallpaper can be saved or needs to be removed.
When to Remove the Wallpaper
If the wallpaper is old or the drywall underneath is damaged, removal is often the better choice. Peeling seams can hide mold growth behind the paper, especially if moisture has been present for a while. If you see black spots or smell mold, you should remove the paper and treat the wall.
Removing wallpaper is labor-intensive, but it gives you a clean surface to repaint or re-wallpaper. The pros can handle the removal and also check the drywall for water damage. If the drywall is soft or crumbly, it may need to be replaced before you put up new wallcovering.
How Local Pros Can Help
Water damage behind wallpaper can be tricky because the paper hides the problem. The pros use moisture mapping to find damp areas without tearing up your walls. They can also perform a water damage inspection to identify the source and extent of the moisture.
If the drywall is wet, structural drying and dehumidification can dry it out safely. In cases where the damage is severe, the pros may need to remove the wallpaper and repair the drywall. These steps help you avoid bigger problems like mold or structural decay.
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Call Now (469) 698-4610Frequently asked questions
Can I just glue the seams back down?
You can try pressing the seams back with wallpaper adhesive, but it will not hold if the wall is still damp. Dry the area first, then apply adhesive. If the wallpaper is old or the drywall is damaged, gluing may only be a temporary fix.
How do I know if there is mold behind the wallpaper?
Look for dark spots, a musty smell, or peeling that spreads quickly. If you suspect mold, carefully peel back a small section to check. See a doctor if you feel unwell from mold exposure. A mold professional can test and treat the area safely.
Will the wallpaper dry out on its own?
Sometimes, if the moisture source is gone and the room is well ventilated. But if the moisture came from a leak, the wall may stay damp. Use a dehumidifier and fans to speed up drying. If the peeling continues, you likely have a persistent moisture issue.