Preparation and Priming Requirements for Wall Covering Installation

1. Walls should be smooth to a Level 5 finish—this means absolutely smooth. No dings, dents, bumps, nail pops, texture, etc.
   • To achieve a Level 5 finish, use only Undiluted Joint compound. DO NOT USE: hot mud, topping compound, light weight joint compound, skimming compound, diluted All Purpose Joint Compound, or any other wall smoothing material.
   • The entire wall surface should be covered with joint compound, not just seams or fastener heads.
   • The wall, corners, and edges should be completely smooth with sharp inside corners.
2. The room(s) to have wallpaper installed should be dust free. All surfaces should be cleaned, preferably with a HEPA vacuum and the entire wall wiped with clean with a micro fiber cloth to remove any and all residual dust.
3. Priming requirements vary depending on existing surface. The Wall Covering Installer will have final discretion/directions for priming requirements.
   • 1st coat: Guardz by Zinsser, for new sheetrock. Bare drywall, old latex painted walls, or problem surfaces (dirty, chalky, etc.).
   • 2nd coat: Shieldz Universal by Zinsser, if the material has a dark background and/or installation instructions indicate, 2nd coat to be Zinsser Shieldz Clear Wall Size tinted to background color approved by designer or client (may be tinted to max 4 ounces tint per gallon).

Note: Modern paints and wall covering adhesives dictate these steps be followed to insure short and long-term bonding of the wall covering to the installation surface. Any deviation from these steps voids any express or implied warranty of the installer.