3 Fast, Easy & Reversible Fix-ups
Most apartment walls, flooring and window treatments feature neutral shades of white, beige, tan or gray. As practical as this is, it can be difficult to add style and individuality to the space.
Here are three fast, easy and reversible fix-ups that transform a rental space.
Temporary Wallpaper
Strippable wallpaper has been around for decades, but in recent years a new generation of temporary wall coverings have hit the market place. Often called “peelable” wallpaper, it has a light adhesive backing that sticks to the wall but can be removed without leaving a residue. While it’s comparatively pricey, it can be a worthwhile investment if boring walls are driving you bonkers.
For the biggest bang for your buck, choose one wall and turn it into a dramatic accent. At one time, temporary wallpaper was a special-order item but many home improvement stores now carry it. Options range from dramatic to subdued and span the gamut from flowers and geometrics to solids, stripes and faux textures that resemble fabric, marble, stone or tile. Some feature a write-on chalkboard or dry erase finish, while others can be painted for a completely customized look.
Measure the area you intend to cover so you know how much to buy. Small rolls will cover about 25 square feet, equivalent to a section about 40 inches wide on a standard-height wall. Larger rolls will often cover about twice that.
Keep in mind the fact that the light adhesive doesn’t have strong gripping power, so the paper may peel or curl in moist or steamy locations like kitchens and baths.
Window Film
New lines of window film can be used to reduce glare, increase privacy, block an unattractive view, insulate against heat and cold, and generally spruce up any glass surface.
Window films come in a range of shades, tints and patterns. Examples include mirrored finishes, rice paper textures, solid tints (black, gray, amber), and decorate textures and designs with the look of frosted, crackled or stained glass.
Most films are applied with water or a prepared application solution and require a squeegee, utility knife and ruler or trim guide. Some also require a specially prepared solution for quick, clean removal.
Make sure you choose a product that’s designed to cling to the glass but peels away without difficulty. Some films are applied with a more permanent adhesive that can be challenging to remove. Read the product specifications carefully, because some also require special cleaning solutions that won’t harm the finish.
Tile Decals
Not all tile is created equal. If a tiled kitchen or bath backsplash is ugly, damaged or drab, spruce it up with removable tile decals. Like wall stickers and removable window films, the material is vinyl-like.
Most versions come with either a white or clear background and are sized to fit traditional 4 x 4 inch tiles. Decals offer lots of options. You can cover a few damaged tiles, create a decorative trim, scatter them for random effect or apply them to every tile on the wall.
Bottom Line
These fast, easy and reversible options can be quite versatile. Some products can be applied to almost any flat, smooth surface, so think outside the box. Consider applying them to cupboards, coffee tables, doors, drawers, headboards or shelves to make your rented space your own