How to Replace Your Car Headliner (Roof Lining) – DIY Guide
A sagging car roof lining is one of the most common problems in older vehicles. Heat, humidity, and time can cause the foam-backed headliner fabric to separate from the roof, leaving a wrinkled, drooping mess above your head.
Luckily, replacing your car headliner fabric is a straightforward DIY project — and with the right upholstery supplies, you can do it yourself for under $100.
At Home Upholsterer, we’re here to help with quality roof lining materials, headliner adhesives, and expert advice in-store and online.
Why Does Headliner Material Sag?
The headlining (or roof liner) is made from a foam-backed fabric laminated to a backing board. Over time, the foam deteriorates, especially in Australia’s hot climate, causing the fabric to peel away from the ceiling.
A damaged or sagging roof lining not only looks untidy — it can block your rear view, reduce cabin comfort, and hurt resale value.
DIY Headliner Replacement vs Paying a Professional
Professional headliner replacement can cost $250–$400.
With DIY headliner fabric, spray adhesive, and basic tools, you can achieve a quality result for as little as $90.
You'll Need:
🧵 Foam-backed headliner fabric
🧴 High-temperature headliner adhesive spray
🔧 Upholstery tools (e.g. scissors, staple remover, etc.)
Optional extras from your toolbox:
- Phillips & flat-head screwdrivers
- Bristle brush or light sandpaper
- Sharp Stanley knife
Step-by-Step: How to Replace Your Car Roof Lining
1. Remove the Existing Headliner
- Unclip trim, visors, lights, grab handles and rearview mirror.
- Carefully slide the headliner board out without cracking it.
- Place it on a flat surface for re-covering.
2. Strip the Old Roof Lining Fabric
- Peel away the sagging roof lining fabric.
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Use a bristle brush or sandpaper to remove all the old foam and glue.
💡 Be thorough — leftover foam causes bumps and poor adhesion.
3. Lay Out Your New Foam Backed Headliner Fabric
- Place the new headliner material (foam side down) over the board.
- Smooth out any wrinkles before gluing.
4. Glue in Sections
- Fold back half the fabric.
- Spray both the board and fabric with headliner adhesive.
- Press the fabric down firmly, smoothing with your hands.
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Repeat on the other half.
💡 Tip: Work in a ventilated area and wear gloves.
5. Trim & Cut
- Trim excess fabric, leaving a 1.5 cm edge for tucking in.
- Use a Stanley knife to cut holes for seatbelt fittings, lights, etc.
- Fold and glue edges behind the board.
6. Reinstall the Headliner
- Slide the board back into the car.
- Refit all trims, lights and accessories.
Where to Buy Headliner Fabric and Roof Lining Materials
At Home Upholsterer, we stock:
- Foam-backed headliner fabric in grey, beige, and black
- Roof lining adhesives specially formulated for automotive interiors
- DIY upholstery tools to make the job easier
- Custom cut foam for seats or roof lining padding
- Friendly service at our Sydney showroom or fast Australia-wide shipping
We’re proud to be the home of DIY upholstery supplies in Australia — trusted by hobbyists, restorers, and auto trimmers alike.
Need Help Choosing the Right Car Roof Lining Material?
Drop into our Sydney upholstery supplies showroom, or contact us for advice on replacing your car roof lining.
We’re happy to demo tools, recommend products, or guide you step-by-step. Prefer to shop online? We ship nationwide with fast dispatch from our Sydney warehouse.