Historic Home Wallpaper Installation

Service Overview

Historic homes present unique challenges that require specialized knowledge and careful techniques. At Moe's Wallcoverings, we have extensive experience working with older properties throughout the Philadelphia area, from Victorian-era row homes in Camden to colonial estates in Chester County. Our approach prioritizes preservation while delivering beautiful, lasting wallpaper installations that honor the architectural character of your home.

• Plaster wall assessment and stabilization
• Period-appropriate wallpaper selection guidance
• Gentle surface preparation that preserves original plaster
• Specialized adhesive selection for older wall surfaces
• Careful work around original moldings, trim, and architectural details
• Coordination with preservation guidelines when applicable

Our Process for Historic Homes

Working with Plaster Walls

Plaster walls are the hallmark of historic homes, and they require a fundamentally different approach than modern drywall. Unlike drywall, plaster is a multi-layer system consisting of a base coat, scratch coat, and finish coat applied over wood lath. This construction creates a harder, denser surface that responds differently to adhesives and moisture.

Our team understands the nuances of plaster wall preparation. We know how to identify and address common issues such as hairline cracks, areas of delamination between plaster layers, and moisture-related deterioration. We use consolidation techniques to stabilize weak areas and apply appropriate primers that create a reliable bond without introducing excess moisture that could cause further damage.

We also understand that many historic homes have walls that are not perfectly flat or plumb. Our installers are skilled at working with these imperfections, using techniques that accommodate slight variations in wall surface while still achieving a professional, seamless finish.

Preservation Mindset

When working in historic homes, we approach every project with a preservation mindset. This means making decisions that protect the long-term integrity of the building while achieving the aesthetic goals of the homeowner. We avoid aggressive preparation methods that could damage original plaster, and we select materials and adhesives that are reversible whenever possible.

For homes listed on historic registers or subject to preservation guidelines, we can work within the requirements set by local historic commissions. We understand the importance of maintaining architectural integrity and are happy to coordinate with preservation consultants or review boards as needed.

Materials & Surfaces

• Traditional paste-applied papers compatible with plaster substrates
• Period-reproduction wallpapers from specialty manufacturers
• Hand-printed and block-printed wallpapers for authentic restoration
• Grasscloth and natural fiber wallcoverings
• Lining paper for smoothing uneven plaster surfaces
• Conservation-grade adhesives designed for historic applications

Pricing Factors

• Condition of existing plaster walls
• Extent of stabilization and repair work needed
• Type of wallpaper material selected
• Complexity of architectural details and trim work
• Room size and accessibility
• Preservation requirements or guidelines

Contact us for a free in-home assessment and estimate for your historic property.

Why Choose Moe's for Historic Homes

• Extensive experience with plaster walls and older construction
• Preservation-focused approach that protects original features
• Knowledge of period-appropriate materials and techniques
• Careful, respectful work practices in your home
• Willingness to coordinate with preservation consultants

Areas We Serve

Our wallpaper installation services are available throughout the greater Philadelphia area, including:

Frequently Asked Questions