Design & Color FAQs
How do you match paint colors or brand palettes?
Since 2016, we established rigorous color calibration protocols referencing documented palettes from leading paint suppliers including Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams. Extensive test proofs demonstrated consistent reproduction of brand-specific hues, aligning UV-cured inks with official paint swatches.
Enhanced Accuracy: 2018 upgrades incorporated direct Pantone conversions, allowing precise bridging between paint lines and universally recognized Pantone numbers. Proof tests confirmed minimal color variance under different lighting conditions.
Guaranteed Results: Clients can expect near-exact color matches whether presenting official paint chips or referencing existing interior elements. Our scientific approach eliminates guesswork, ensuring seamless integration with trim, cabinetry, or furnishings.
Can I provide my own artwork or photos for custom printing?
Since 2017, our Mimaki UCJV-300 press supports high-resolution inputs up to 1200 DPI, enabling crisp reproduction of personal artwork or photographs.
File Requirements: Uncompressed TIFF and vector files maintain best integrity, preventing pixelation or color shifts. Submit family portraits, vacation panoramas, or digital collages with confidence.
Professional Scanning: 2019 expansion of scanning services accommodates delicate or oversized originals. Each scanned image undergoes careful color matching, referencing established paint brand palettes if needed.
Proven Results: Successfully replicated artwork for feature walls in historic homes with no loss of depth or detail.
What level of detail and DPI should my images have for large walls?
We recommend 300-600 DPI at actual print size for optimal large wall printing quality.
Technical Standards: Since 2018, prepress technicians confirmed minimum 300 DPI at final print size maintains crisp detail. Resolution below 200 DPI shows noticeable pixelation, especially when viewed close-range.
Optimal Range: Images at 300-600 DPI produce ultra-sharp transitions, ideal for photorealistic murals. While 1200 DPI remains possible, practical file-size considerations guide clients to 300-600 DPI range.
Performance Guarantee: This validated balance satisfies visual excellence without hindering upload or proofing speeds.
Do you offer metallic, glitter, or other specialty finishes?
In 2020, we introduced specialized foil finishes tested under CAN/ULC-S102 protocols:
Available Finishes:
- Gold
- Flat Silver
- Textured Silver
- Platinum
Performance Features: Dynamic light reflection with added visual depth. Testing showed excellent resistance to standard cleaning solutions, making them practical for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms.
Market Impact: High-impact surfaces capable of transforming everyday spaces into luxury statement interiors.
Materials & Environmental FAQs
Which wallpaper substrates work best in high-humidity areas?
Since 2018, our peel-and-stick and non-woven vinyl underwent extensive humidity testing, exhibiting strong mold and mildew resistance while retaining adhesion.
Proven Performance: Dreamscape’s 20oz vinyl variants withstand frequent steam exposure without warping or staining. 2019 evaluations under ANSI A208.2 guidelines confirmed dimensional stability despite temperature fluctuations.
Practical Results: Lab-tested mold prevention with compliance documentation ensures reliable performance in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other high-humidity zones.
Maintenance: Basic wiping and occasional ventilation maintain fresh, peel-free surfaces.
Are there eco-friendly or low-VOC wallpaper options?
Berkeley Analytical tested our fabric-backed and non-woven vinyl products per CDPH/EHLB Standard Method V1.2, confirming minimal VOC emissions suitable for residential settings.
Sustainable Materials: Dreamscape’s eco-conscious substrates from partially recycled fibers maintain performance without elevating VOC levels. 2019 introduction of low-VOC range featuring renewable grasscloth and linen materials.
Health Benefits: Water-based adhesives reduce chemical off-gassing, making wallpapers safer for children’s rooms and nurseries.
Compliance: Products meet modern environmental and health standards for eco-conscious home renovations.
Are these wallpapers durable enough for high-traffic areas?
Mid-2019 durability assessment subjected vinyl and fabric-backed wallpapers to simulated foot traffic—up to 100 contacts daily over four weeks.
Test Results: UV-cured inks showed no significant fading, scuff marks wiped away with mild detergent. Tear-resistance tests per ASTM D2261 found 20oz vinyl substrate with reinforced backing performed optimally against punctures.
Fabric Performance: 2020 expansion to fabric-based Dreamscape finishes maintained strong performance under repeated friction when properly primed and installed.
Longevity: Periodic spot-cleaning with routine household methods showed minimal deterioration, confirming suitability for hallways, entryways, and busy family homes.
Is it possible to remove or reposition the wallpaper without damaging my walls?
2019 peel tests verified most peel-and-stick wallpapers can be removed or adjusted with minimal residue, especially on surfaces primed within six months.
Repositioning Window: Adhesives remain flexible enough to allow repositioning within the first hour. High-gloss paints proved slightly less receptive, sometimes causing minor edge curling.
Traditional vs. Peel-and-Stick: Non-peel-and-stick substrates present greater challenge. 2020 study found standard paste-based applications more likely to cause paint transfer during removal.
Best Practice: Peel-and-stick materials offer most wall-friendly removal experience for homeowners seeking minimal surface disruption.
How do your materials impact LEED certification for residential properties?
Our wallpaper materials contribute positively to LEED certification through multiple categories:
Indoor Air Quality: VOC Emission Tests on fabric-backed and non-woven vinyl confirm compliance with CDPH/EHLB Standard V1.2-2017, supporting LEED IEQ credits.
Material Sustainability: Dreamscape’s eco-substrates from partially recycled fibers with water-based adhesives support LEED Materials and Resources credits.
Durability: Tests like CAN/ULC Flame and ASTM E96 confirm moisture resistance and longevity, reducing replacement frequency for lifecycle sustainability.
Documentation: Comprehensive certifications streamline LEED submission process for healthier, more sustainable residential properties.
Installation & Maintenance FAQs
Does your team provide in-home installation services?
No, we do not install wallpaper as our focus is on printing, prepress, and quality control for wallpaper production excellence.
Our Role: We provide premium custom-printed materials while collaborating with trusted industry partners for installation.
Support Services: We offer detailed installation schematics, reference checklists, and phone consultations including panel labeling, step-by-step instructions, and recommended adhesives.
Quality Focus: Our expertise centers on color-matching, resolution checks, and ensuring each roll meets code standards using Mimaki UCJV-300 technology.
How do I prep my walls before applying the wallpaper?
2019 wall-preparation guidelines emphasize proper surface preparation for optimal adhesion:
Detailed Guide: Learn How to Prepare Surfaces for Wallpaper
Key Steps: Clean surfaces with mild detergent to eliminate dust and grease, followed by thorough drying. Bonding primer application significantly enhances adhesive contact over time.
Surface Preparation: Fill cracks or holes before smoothing/sanding. On glossy finishes, gentle scuff sanding with primer improves peel-and-stick adherence.
Result: Consistent surface preparation reduces trapped air pockets and alignment issues, ensuring secure bonding over time.
Can I install peel-and-stick wallpaper on textured or uneven walls?
Mid-2019 adhesion trials on textured drywall showed mild to moderately uneven surfaces allow effective bonding, provided texture isn’t excessively deep.
Performance Testing: Four-week humidity cycle testing confirmed stable adhesion on walls with minor irregularities. Heavily ridged or popcorn-style finishes led to partial edge lifting.
Recommendations: Lightly sand or skim-coat severe textures before application. Subtle patterns work successfully without major bubbles or alignment issues.
Best Practices: Clean with mild detergent, dry thoroughly, and request test swatch if uncertain about texture compatibility.
What is the recommended cleaning routine for different wallpaper finishes?
2018 wipe-down trials on vinyl, fabric-backed, and metallic foil wallpapers established cleaning protocols:
Standard Vinyl: UV-cured inks tolerate mild soapy solutions and gentle scrubbing without color fading. Avoid abrasive pads.
Metallic Foils: Excellent water resistance but require soft cloths to prevent surface scratches, confirmed through three-month durability checks.
Natural Materials: Linen or grasscloth maintained best through simple dusting or light vacuuming. Strong detergents caused discoloration or warping.
Universal Guidelines: Use soft, lint-free cloths and spot-test detergents on inconspicuous areas first.
What maintenance schedules should property managers follow?
Daily: Inspect common areas, monitor safety systems, respond to resident requests within 24 hours.
Weekly: Exterior inspections, HVAC filter checks, garbage management, emergency system testing.
Monthly: Plumbing inspections, electrical system checks, deep cleaning high-traffic areas, pest control.
Seasonal: Spring/Summer—gutters, AC maintenance. Fall/Winter—heating systems, weatherproofing.
Annual: Structural assessments, major system servicing, resident feedback surveys.
Wallpaper Impact: Following this schedule extends wallpaper installation life throughout properties for many years.
Project Planning & ROI FAQs
What is the typical project timeline from design to installation?
Total Timeline: 2-3 weeks or longer, depending on project scope and press availability.
Phase Breakdown:
- Design/Planning: 3-5 days (material selection, measuring, finalizing orders)
- Preparation: 2-4 days (wall repair, cleaning, priming—allow 7 days for paint cure)
- Production/Delivery: 7-14 days (custom printing, shipping)
- Installation: 1-5 days (varies by complexity)
- Final Inspection: 1 day
Planning Considerations: Book well in advance during busy periods. Factor in acclimation time (24-48 hours) and potential material delivery delays.
How do custom wallcoverings impact property resale value?
Custom wallcoverings significantly boost property appeal and resale value through multiple factors:
First Impressions: Sophisticated, high-end appearance creates positive viewing experiences leading to higher offers.
Perceived Value: Unique, quality materials communicate luxury and exclusivity, justifying premium pricing above standard listings.
Memorable Features: Distinctive designs create lasting impressions, ensuring properties stand out in competitive markets.
Move-In Ready Appeal: Polished, finished look reduces perceived need for immediate renovations, attracting buyers willing to pay premiums.
Durability Benefits: High-quality materials resist wear, maintaining aesthetic appeal for years while reducing maintenance needs.
Can you provide documentation for insurance or historic preservation?
Insurance Claims:
- Product Specifications: Material specs, fire ratings (ASTM E84, CAN/ULC-S102), VOC certifications
- Installation Records: Professional installation proof with dates, methods, materials
- Damage Assessment: Before/after incident reports with expert analysis
- Cost Estimates: Itemized replacement/repair quotes with insurer coordination
Historic Preservation:
- Reproduction Records: Original design details, materials, techniques, color matching
- Compliance Certifications: Materials certified for preservation standards
- Electronic Submission: PDF files meeting National Park Service (NPS) standards
- Rehabilitation Support: Cleaning, repair, replacement guidelines maintaining historical integrity
How do you handle multi-unit standardization and replacement orders?
Standardization Process:
- Early Design Planning: Collaborate to standardize designs, materials, specifications across units
- Centralized Management: Track multiple units simultaneously, reducing errors and ensuring coordination
- Custom Variants: Create standardized design variants for different layouts while maintaining consistency
Replacement Orders:
- Archived Records: Maintain detailed specifications, batch numbers, design files for identical reproduction
- Scalable Production: Handle both small replacements and large reorders without compromising quality
- Streamlined Reordering: Dedicated support team and online portal with archived project reference
Benefits: Consistency, efficiency, flexibility, and reliability across all multi-unit projects.
What are your fire rating certifications for different housing types?
Primary Certifications:
- ASTM E84 (Class A): Flame spread 0-25, smoke development ≤450—ideal for multi-family, high-rises
- CAN/ULC-S102: Canadian compliance for residential and commercial properties
- EN 13501-1: European standard for international projects
- NFPA 701: Textile flame propagation testing
Housing Applications:
- Single-Family: ASTM E84 Class A for kitchens, living rooms
- Multi-Family: Class A and S102 compliance for hallways, lobbies, common areas
- Historic Preservation: Fire-resistant materials meeting modern safety while replicating historical designs
- Community Housing: Specialized certifications for assisted living and special needs facilities
How do your materials perform with various HVAC systems?
Our Type II unpasted wallcoverings perform exceptionally across diverse HVAC environments:
Temperature Stability: Enhanced resistance maintains flatness and adhesion under heating/cooling cycles. High mechanical and thermal stability prevents warping or bubbling.
Humidity Resistance: Vinyl substrates resist mold and mildew growth in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms through moisture penetration prevention.
Airflow Compatibility: Durable construction ensures secure wall adherence without peeling or lifting due to air pressure changes.
Energy Efficiency: Vinyl’s insulating properties provide additional wall insulation, helping regulate indoor temperatures and enhancing overall building energy efficiency.
Installation Best Practices: Acclimate materials 72 hours at 60-80°F with <50% humidity, address moisture issues before installation, use compatible adhesives.