Brava™ Installation Instructions
Below is a recommendation on how to install Brava™ PVC Free Wallcovering materials. This is just one of many methods a professional paper hanger may use. If you are unsure about this process, please consult a professional for their input or suggestions.
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BRAVA – PASTE UP
WALL PREPARATION
The wall must be clean, dry, smooth, and free of dust and moisture. The wall should be a solid uniform light color for best results.
NEW CONSTRUCTION: Wipe down walls to ensure that there is no dust and apply a precoat primer. (As recommended by the manufacturer)
EXISTING CONSTRUCTION: Thoroughly clean the surface of walls to remove all dirt, grease, and imperfections in the wall to ensure it is a smooth surface.
- Remove old wallpaper and loose paint before washing the walls with water and degreaser.
- Fill in cracks and holes with a filler. Smooth out rough spots on the surface of the wall. (If plaster walls use a plaster-based filler).
- The wall must not be exposed to moisture. Prime absorbent walls with a solvent-free primer and apply an underlay for walls that are too absorbent.
- Only apply wallcovering to completely dry walls, otherwise, discoloration may occur, and adhesion will not be optimal.
PASTE
It is recommended to use paste for nonwoven wallcoverings, such as Metyl Special for Europe and Romans Pro 838 for the US, with the addition of 20% dispersion adhesive
PRODUCT INSTALLATION
All cuts are to be done with a sharp, new blade every time.
- Always check the product for faults before hanging and check for faults as the strips are being hung. If any faults are visible, stop the work and contact the manufacturer.
- Cut strips to the desired length, roll the printed side inwards.
- It is recommended to use an adhesive for a nonwoven, that the average quantity of +/-200 g/m2 or +/-5.90 oz/yd2. (Follow instructions from the paste manufacturer).
- Apply the paste to the wall over a surface of 1 to 3 strips, depending on the degree of the wall absorption. Spread the paste evenly with a medium roller.
- Roll the strip and place the top against the pasted wall. Then unroll the strip from the top downwards against the pasted wall. Rub the strip evenly using a rubber roller.
- Install the strips on the wall next to each other without overlapping and press the strips down with a brush.
- To expel any air bubbles, press down on the nonwoven with a plastic trowel or paperhanging brush.
- Using a sharp box cutter and a wallpaper trimmer, cut the surplus material from the top and bottom.
- Directly remove excess paste or any stains by dapping with a damp clean cloth or sponge. (Only water no chemicals). Repeat after hanging each strip. Then wipe with a dry cloth.
- Always finish hanging wallcovering on one wall before starting the next.
- Only hang rolls with the same batch number next to each other. Always avoid creases when hanging the material.
- Use a seam roller to press down the seams of the wallcovering. Be sure to keep the roller clean.
BRAVA – SPRAY & UP
WALL PREPARATION
- Walls must be clean, smooth, and dry before installation.
- Remove old wallpaper, loose paint, dust, grease, and debris.
- Repair any holes or imperfections and sand smooth.
- Apply a quality wallpaper primer/sealer to all wall surfaces.
- Allow newly painted or primed walls to cure for at least 7 days before installing wallpaper. Fresh paint that has not fully cured can cause poor adhesion or bubbling.
- Turn off strong airflow or fans during installation to prevent edges from drying too quickly.
Wall Preparation Tips
- Flat or matte paints can absorb moisture and may reduce adhesion.
- Satin or eggshell finishes primed with wallpaper primer generally work best.
- Avoid installing wallpaper directly over unprimed drywall
Method 1: Water Tray / Dunk Method
- Fill a clean water tray or bathtub with lukewarm water.
- Roll the wallpaper loosely with the pasted side facing outward.
- Submerge the strip completely in water for approximately 15 seconds to activate the adhesive.
- Remove the strip and gently pull it through your fingers to remove excess water
- Position the wallpaper on the wall starting at the ceiling line. Brava Spray & Up can be installed immediately without booking.
- Smooth with a wallpaper brush or smoothing tool, working from the center outward to remove air bubbles.
- Trim excess wallpaper at the ceiling and baseboard with a sharp utility knife.
Method 2: Spray the Back Method
- Place the wallpaper strip pattern-side down on a clean surface.
- Using a spray bottle, evenly mist the pasted backing until fully activated.
- Make sure all pasted areas are damp but not soaking wet.
- Hang the strip on the wall, aligning the pattern as needed.
- Smooth the wallpaper from the center outward to remove bubbles and wrinkles.
- Trim excess material at the top and bottom.
Method 2: Spray the Back Method
- Lightly mist the wall surface with clean water using a spray bottle.
- Do not oversaturate; the wall should be damp, not dripping wet.
- Position the dry wallpaper strip onto the damp wall.
- Adjust alignment and match patterns as needed.
- Smooth firmly with a wallpaper brush or smoothing tool to ensure proper adhesion.
- Wipe away any excess moisture with a clean sponge or cloth.
- Trim excess wallpaper at the ceiling and baseboard.
Helpful Tips
- Use a seam roller lightly to secure seams.
- Wipe adhesive residue immediately with a damp sponge.
- Change water frequently when using the dunk method.
- Allow wallpaper to dry completely before exposing the room to excessive humidity or cleaning.