Service Overview
Historic homes in the Chicago area present unique challenges for wallpaper installation. Older plaster walls, uneven surfaces, moisture issues, and the need to preserve architectural integrity all require a specialist approach. Zenith Floor Designs has extensive experience working in historic properties throughout Aurora, Joliet, and the greater Chicagoland area.
Our historic home wallpaper service includes:
- Plaster wall assessment and repair
- Mold-resistant primer application (critical in Aurora's older homes)
- Skim coating and surface smoothing
- Historic-appropriate wallpaper selection guidance
- Preservation-grade installation techniques
- Removal of existing historic wallpaper layers
Own a historic home in Aurora or Joliet? Call (872) 325-2444 for a specialist consultation.
Get Specialist QuoteOlder Walls & Plaster Preparation
The most critical aspect of wallpaper installation in a historic home is wall preparation. Original plaster walls from the early 20th century are often uneven, cracked, and may have absorbed moisture over decades. Before any wallpaper goes up, we assess the condition of the plaster, repair cracks and soft spots, and apply a mold-resistant primer that creates a stable, sealed surface.
In Aurora's historic neighborhoods, we frequently encounter walls with multiple layers of old wallpaper, lead paint, and plaster that has shifted over time. Our team knows how to handle these conditions safely and effectively, ensuring the new wallpaper adheres correctly and looks beautiful for years.
Not sure if your historic walls are ready for wallpaper? We offer free assessments.
Schedule AssessmentPreservation Mindset
We approach historic home projects with a preservation mindset. This means using techniques and materials that respect the original architecture, avoiding unnecessary damage to original plaster, and selecting wallpapers that complement the period character of the home. We work with clients and their interior designers to find patterns and materials that honor the history of the property while meeting modern performance standards.
Our Process for Historic Homes
- Detailed Assessment: We examine wall conditions, moisture levels, and existing layers.
- Repair & Stabilization: Plaster cracks are repaired, soft areas are stabilized.
- Mold-Resistant Priming: Especially important in older homes with moisture history.
- Skim Coating: Uneven surfaces are smoothed to create a flat, stable base.
- Careful Installation: Wallpaper is applied with techniques suited to the surface and material.
- Inspection: Final walkthrough to ensure quality and client satisfaction.
Materials for Historic Homes
- Period-appropriate reproduction wallpapers
- Natural fiber wallcoverings (grasscloth, jute, sisal)
- Fabric-backed papers for added stability on uneven surfaces
- Traditional paste-the-paper wallpapers
- Custom printed papers matching historic patterns
Why Choose Zenith for Historic Home Wallpaper
- Specialist experience with plaster walls and historic surfaces
- Mold-resistant primers and preservation-grade techniques
- Respectful of original architecture and period character
- Extensive experience in Aurora and Joliet historic neighborhoods
- Licensed, insured, and committed to quality
Areas We Serve
We provide historic home wallpaper installation in Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, Elgin, Waukegan, Arlington Heights, and throughout Chicago's historic neighborhoods.
Ready to restore the beauty of your historic home's walls?
Get Free QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Can you install wallpaper directly over old plaster?
In most cases, yes — but the plaster must first be assessed, repaired, and properly primed. We never apply wallpaper to unstable or moisture-damaged plaster without addressing the underlying issues first.
Why is mold-resistant primer important in older homes?
Older homes often have moisture that has penetrated walls over decades. Mold-resistant primer creates a barrier that prevents mold growth behind the wallpaper, protecting both the wallpaper and the wall structure.
How do you handle multiple layers of old wallpaper?
We carefully remove existing layers using professional techniques that minimize damage to the underlying plaster. Our wallpaper removal service is available as a standalone or combined with new installation.
