The professional term for installing vinyl or wallpaper in panels without overlap, where the edges are aligned and meet exactly edge-to-edge, is called a butt joint or butted seam. In this method, the panels are “butted up” against each other, creating a seamless look without overlapping.
Pros:
- Seamless Look: Creates a clean, smooth finish with no visible overlaps or bulges.
- Professional Finish: Provides a more refined and polished appearance once installed correctly.
- No Extra Steps: No need for additional trimming or removal of excess material after installation.
Cons:
- Alignment Precision: Requires precise alignment during installation; any slight misalignment can result in visible gaps.
- Complexity: Can be more challenging for inexperienced installers, as minor errors are less forgiving.
- Coverage Risk: If not applied correctly, there’s a risk of gaps or missed areas between panels.
Installation
This method works well with certain product types to create a flat surface for the entire installation, but it can be challenging if you are not experienced with installation. If your alignment is slightly off, you may encounter gaps or overlaps as you install the full length of your item.
You can install a large panel item with an overlap, then remove the secondary layer to have a butted seam. This allows you to have the flexibility with installation alignment, but then return it to an edge-to-edge finished product. Once the vinyl is fully installed, the next step is to refine the seam. Using a sharp blade, carefully slice through the center of the overlapping area where the panels meet (careful against certain surfaces that may damage expensive paint). After cutting, remove the top layer of the overlap, which leaves a clean, butted seam. This technique combines the benefits of an overlapping seam during installation with a final, smooth butt joint appearance, providing a seamless and polished finish.
Climate and Surface Reaction
When installing vinyl or wallpaper in areas with fluctuating climate conditions, it’s important to account for potential material contraction. Changes in temperature and humidity can cause the material to shrink, leading to the formation of gaps between panels over time. This is particularly crucial in environments that experience significant seasonal changes, where the material might expand in warmer conditions and contract as temperatures drop.
The type of material used, as well as the surface it’s applied to, can also influence how much the vinyl or wallpaper contracts. For example, certain substrates may react differently to temperature changes, exacerbating or mitigating the effects of shrinkage. To minimize these risks, choosing the right material and installation technique—such as overlapping seams—can help ensure that the final result remains seamless and durable, even in challenging conditions.
Cast vinyl and some high-performance calendared vinyl will eliminate or reduce the amount of shrinkage over time. As well as the quality of the surface, and surface energy in general.
