YDS Studio · Buying guide 03
Can wall decals go on timber, concrete, wallpaper and laminate?
A wall decal can work on more than painted plasterboard. The important questions are whether the surface is smooth, clean, dry and stable, and whether the chosen decal material suits it.
Timber, plywood and chipboard
We have applied decals to smooth raw timber as well as finished boards. Sealing or finishing timber-based surfaces is generally preferable, but the actual surface matters: loose fibres, rough edges and uneven patches make application harder.
On suitable timber, sanding may be needed to remove roughness. Remove sawdust thoroughly before installation. Do not assume a decal will bridge a rough patch or hide every board texture. If you want to use exposed plywood or chipboard, send us a close-up and tell us which design you are considering.
Concrete and masonry
A smooth, suitably finished concrete surface is different from rough, bare concrete. We do not recommend treating all concrete as a ready-to-use wall decal surface. Texture, dust, moisture and the condition of any coating need checking first.
A large graphic on a concrete wall may need a different material or preparation approach from a retail decal on a painted bedroom wall. Contact us before ordering, particularly for commercial spaces.
Wallpaper
Painted wallpaper can work where it is smooth and firmly attached. Highly textured wallpaper is more difficult because the adhesive cannot make even contact across the surface. The condition of the wallpaper and its bond to the wall matter too.
A removable decal does not make removal from wallpaper risk-free. Delicate paper, loose seams or an unstable painted layer can be damaged. Test a sample and consider whether you are comfortable with that risk before using a full design.
Laminate and glass
Do not sand laminate or glass. These smooth surfaces need cleaning rather than abrasion, which could leave permanent scratches. Allow the surface to dry and avoid cleaning products that leave a coating or residue.
Installation on glass also depends on the decal material. Some suitable vinyl graphics use a wet application method, while that is not a general instruction for woven fabric. Ask us for the method for your exact product.
A useful check before ordering
- Is the surface smooth enough for the artwork to sit evenly?
- Is it clean and dry, without loose dust or fibres?
- Is the paint, sealer or wallpaper firmly attached?
- Will preparation change the appearance of the surrounding surface?
- Have you checked the material used for this particular design?
If any answer is uncertain, email us a photo. We can provide a material sample for the design you are interested in. Do not sand unknown old coatings or materials that could contain hazardous substances; get appropriate advice first.
Explore the designs
Frequently asked questions
Can I put a decal on raw timber?
We have done so successfully on smooth, clean timber. Raw timber varies, so test the actual surface. Sealing is generally preferable, and rough fibres or sawdust need addressing first.
Does plywood always need to be painted?
Not always. What matters is the finish and condition of the surface. A smooth sealed board is different from a rough or dusty sheet. Ask us about your particular board and design.
Can I apply a decal to bare concrete?
Do not assume bare concrete is suitable. Roughness, dust and moisture can interfere with installation. Send us a photo before buying; a finished surface or different graphic system may be needed.
Will a decal cover textured wallpaper?
It will not turn a strongly textured surface into a smooth one. We do not recommend highly textured wallpaper for a standard decal without checking the specific surface and material.
Can I use decals on painted wallpaper?
Potentially, if the surface is suitable and firmly attached. Test first, and remember that removal may affect the paper or painted layer.
Should laminate be sanded?
No. Clean it carefully instead. Sanding can scratch the surface and is not necessary for this preparation.
Can I test before ordering a large design?
Yes. Tell us the design name when requesting a sample so we can match its material, rather than sending a sample of a different product.
What if the surface is in a busy commercial space?
Tell us how the area is used and cleaned. We can assess whether a commercial material is more suitable than a standard retail decal.
Find artwork for your space
A space for your business?
From a single feature wall to a whole environment, tell us what you have in mind. YDS Studio designs and makes wall graphics for projects across New Zealand.
Explore commercial projectsTalk to the people making your artwork
Send us the design you are considering, a photo of the space and your question. We are here to help.
info@yourdecalshop.co.nz
0800 33 22 57