Wallpaper Masking – How to Protect Delicate Surfaces Properly
When painting adjacent surfaces, extra care is required: Premium wallpaper finishes can be sensitive to masking tape. Learn how to properly protect wallpaper and avoid surface damage.
When painting adjacent walls or ceilings, masking already wallpapered surfaces is often necessary. However, high-quality, textured or specially finished wallpapers (e.g. metallic effects, natural materials or delicate coatings) require particular care.
Wallpaper surfaces can be sensitive to adhesive tapes. When removing tape, there is a risk of damaging the surface, lifting color, or affecting the structure.
To ensure optimal protection, please follow these recommendations:
1️⃣ Choose the Right Masking Tape

Only use masking tape specifically designed for delicate surfaces, such as:
Storch MaskUp Sunnystar Sensitive
This tape has reduced adhesive strength and significantly lowers the risk of damage. Standard painter’s tape is generally not suitable for wallpaper surfaces.
2️⃣ Always Perform a Test
Before applying tape extensively:
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Apply a small strip to an inconspicuous area.
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Press it down lightly.
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Remove it carefully after a short time.
This allows you to check whether the surface remains intact.
3️⃣ Press the Tape Only Along the Edge
Do not press the tape firmly across the entire surface.
👉 Secure it only along the edge facing the area to be painted.
This ensures a clean paint line while minimizing stress on the wallpaper surface.
4️⃣ Remove the Tape Carefully and Promptly
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Remove the tape as soon as possible after painting, ideally before the paint has fully cured.
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Pull it off slowly at a flat 45° angle toward the painted surface.
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Avoid sudden or jerky movements.
Premium wallpapers deserve special care. If you are unsure, we recommend consulting an experienced professional decorator.