Service Overview
Chicago's architectural heritage includes some of the finest historic homes in the Midwest, from Victorian-era Greystones in Lincoln Park to Prairie-style homes in Oak Park and Craftsman bungalows across the South Side. These properties deserve wallpaper installation that respects their character while enhancing their beauty. Chicago Wallpaper Perfection specializes in working with older homes, bringing the expertise and patience required to achieve stunning results on challenging surfaces.
Our historic home service includes:
- Specialized assessment of plaster walls and period surfaces
- Gentle preparation techniques that preserve original materials
- Period-appropriate wallpaper recommendations
- Expert handling of ornate moldings, medallions, and trim
- Moisture and mold assessment for older structures
- Craftsmanship warranty tailored to historic properties
Preserve Your Home's Character
Schedule a free consultation for your historic home wallpaper project.
Get Free Quote or call (872) 279-3839Client Testimonials
Working with Older Walls and Plaster
Historic homes present unique challenges that require specialized knowledge. Plaster walls, common in homes built before 1950, behave differently than modern drywall. They may have hairline cracks, uneven surfaces, and varying levels of adhesion. Our team has decades of experience working with these surfaces and uses techniques specifically designed for plaster:
- Plaster Assessment: We evaluate the condition of your plaster, identifying areas that need repair before installation.
- Gentle Repair: We fill cracks and smooth imperfections using compatible materials that bond with existing plaster.
- Appropriate Primers: We use primers specifically formulated for plaster surfaces, ensuring optimal adhesion without damaging the original material.
- Breathable Adhesives: Historic walls need to breathe. We select adhesives that allow moisture vapor transmission, preventing trapped moisture that can damage plaster.
Preservation Mindset
When working in a historic home, every decision matters. Our team approaches each project with a preservation mindset, understanding that the goal is to enhance the home's beauty while protecting its irreplaceable original features. We take extra care around ornate crown moldings, ceiling medallions, original woodwork, and period-specific architectural details.
We also understand the emotional connection homeowners have with their historic properties. Many of our clients have invested years in restoring their homes, and they trust us to treat their spaces with the same care and respect they do. That trust is something we take seriously on every project.
Ready to Get Started?
Request your free wallpaper installation quote today.
Get Free Quote or call (872) 279-3839Period-Appropriate Materials
For homeowners who want to maintain historical accuracy, we offer access to period-appropriate wallpaper collections from manufacturers who specialize in reproduction patterns. From Victorian florals and Arts and Crafts motifs to Art Deco geometrics and mid-century modern designs, we can help you find wallpaper that is true to your home's era.
Our Process for Historic Homes
- Historic Assessment: We evaluate wall conditions, identify original materials, and note any preservation concerns.
- Design Consultation: We discuss period-appropriate options and help you select wallpaper that honors your home's architectural style.
- Gentle Preparation: We prepare surfaces using techniques that protect original plaster and woodwork.
- Careful Installation: Our installers work slowly and methodically, ensuring perfect results without damaging historic features.
- Detail Work: We meticulously work around ornate moldings, medallions, and other period details.
- Final Review: We conduct a thorough inspection with you to ensure the installation meets both your expectations and preservation standards.
Areas We Serve
Our historic home wallpaper team serves homeowners throughout the greater Chicago metro area, including Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, Elgin, Kenosha, Waukegan, Cicero, Hammond, Gary, Arlington Heights, and all surrounding communities.
Ready to Get Started?
Request your free wallpaper installation quote today.
Get Free Quote or call (872) 279-3839Historic Home Wallpaper FAQ
Can wallpaper damage historic plaster?
Not when installed properly. Our team uses techniques and materials specifically designed for plaster walls, ensuring the wallpaper adheres securely without damaging the underlying surface.
Do you work with historic preservation boards?
Yes. We understand the requirements of historic districts and can work within preservation guidelines when needed.
Can you match existing historic wallpaper?
In many cases, yes. We work with manufacturers who produce reproduction patterns and can also source custom prints to match existing designs.
How do you handle lead paint in older homes?
We follow all EPA guidelines for working in pre-1978 homes. Our preparation techniques minimize disturbance of existing paint layers.
Is wallpaper appropriate for all rooms in a historic home?
Wallpaper can be used in virtually any room. For high-moisture areas like bathrooms, we recommend moisture-resistant materials and proper ventilation.
How much does historic home wallpaper installation cost?
Costs vary based on wall condition, material selection, and project scope. Historic homes often require additional preparation, which is reflected in the estimate. Call (872) 279-3839 for a free consultation.
Can you remove old wallpaper from plaster walls?
Yes. Our wallpaper removal service includes specialized techniques for safely removing paper from plaster without damaging the underlying surface.
Do you install wallpaper in Chicago Greystones?
Absolutely. We have extensive experience with Chicago's iconic Greystone buildings and understand the unique wall conditions found in these historic structures.