Bathrooms and toilets are spaces that are often exposed to water and steam, making it essential to choose durable materials that can withstand these conditions. While options like glass or marble tiles are known for their durability, wallpaper also has its merits. At Zhome interior design company, we have conducted research to help you decide whether using wallpaper in the bathroom or toilet is a viable option.
Moisture Can Cause Wallpaper to Peel Off
Wallpaper is not specifically designed to withstand the constant presence of water droplets and steam generated by bathtubs and showers. The moisture can penetrate the material and weaken the adhesive that holds it to the wall. As a result, bathroom wallpaper often starts to curl from the seams between pieces or from the top edge of the baseboard when the adhesive deteriorates.
Plumbing Issues Can Lead to Stains on Wallpaper
It’s common for homeowners to encounter plumbing problems such as burst pipes, overflowing toilets, or faulty faucets. If your bathroom is wallpapered, these issues can lead to water stains on the wallpaper, typically appearing as gray rings or smudges.
Mold Grows Behind Damp Wallpaper
The dark and damp environment behind bathroom wallpaper provides an ideal breeding ground for mold. Certain molds, like Aureobasidium, can cause skin irritation or infection, while toxic molds like Fusarium can lead to abscesses or even bone infections. Therefore, using wallpaper in the bathroom can have unfortunate consequences.
Note: If your home has rising damp or moisture infiltration, it is crucial to avoid installing wallpaper in the bathroom. Rising damp is caused by groundwater moving through the masonry and onto walls, while moisture infiltration occurs when water leaks through walls due to cracks or other structural issues. These conditions increase the risk of mold growth.
You Can Imitate Similar Materials
To achieve the aesthetic appeal of wallpaper without the drawbacks, you can consider using wall murals. Priced at around 250,000 per meter, these murals are made of silk fabrics that can withstand moisture and are safe for humid spaces like bathrooms and toilets. By opting for wall murals instead of wallpaper, you can beautifully decorate your bathroom while avoiding the potential issues associated with traditional wallpaper.
In conclusion, while wallpaper can add elegance to any space, including bathrooms and toilets, it comes with its own set of challenges. The constant presence of moisture and the risk of mold growth make it important to consider alternative options like glass or marble tiles, or even wall murals. Make an informed decision based on your preferences and the unique characteristics of your bathroom or toilet.
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