So is it a good idea to paint over wallpaper?

When you have outdated or damaged wallpaper, many people wonder if painting over wallpaper is a good alternative to stripping it off. The idea of painting directly over wallpaper can be appealing—especially if you’re looking for a quick, low-hassle solution. While it can work in certain situations, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons to make the best choice for your space.

As a professional decorator, I’ve worked with both approaches. Here’s what you need to consider before making the decision to paint over wallpaper, including when it works well, potential challenges, and tips to get the best results.

When Painting Over Wallpaper Might Be a Good Option

In some cases, painting over wallpaper is a practical choice. There are times when removing the wallpaper could damage the wall underneath or when you’re dealing with multiple layers of old paper, making removal difficult.

1. Older Walls That Are Fragile

If the walls are older or in poor condition, stripping off the wallpaper can risk damage to the plaster. Painting over it provides a solution that keeps the wall intact while giving it a fresh, updated look.

• Protection for the Wall: By leaving the wallpaper in place, you’re essentially creating an extra layer between the wall and the paint, which can help prevent damage to the surface beneath.
• Smooth Finish: Painting over wallpaper in these cases can result in a smooth, uniform finish if the wallpaper is in relatively good condition.

2. Heavily Adhered Wallpaper

In some rooms, wallpaper is applied with a strong adhesive that makes it difficult to remove. If removing it would involve extensive scraping or even wall repairs afterward, painting over the wallpaper can save time and effort.

• Saving Time and Effort: Leaving the wallpaper up and painting over it allows you to skip the labour-intensive removal process, which can be especially helpful in larger spaces or with more stubborn adhesives.
• Avoiding Additional Repair: In many cases, removing wallpaper from certain walls leads to unwanted repairs, which may not be necessary when opting to paint over it instead.

Challenges of Painting Over Wallpaper

While there are cases when painting over wallpaper can work well, it’s not without challenges. Achieving a clean, long-lasting result can be tricky, and there are a few key issues to keep in mind.

1. Peeling or Lifting Edges

Wallpaper that has begun to peel or lift at the edges poses a problem for painting. Any areas that are loose will likely become more noticeable after painting, and in some cases, it may cause the wallpaper to peel further over time.

• Securing Edges: If painting over wallpaper, it’s crucial to go over all edges and seams. Applying adhesive where needed can help keep the wallpaper secure, reducing the chance of peeling.
• Prepping the Surface: I always make sure the wallpaper is firmly attached before applying paint. Otherwise, these issues will show through, affecting the look and durability of the paint job.

2. Textured or Patterned Wallpaper

When the wallpaper has a heavy texture or raised pattern, painting over it may not give the smooth finish you’re aiming for. Textures and patterns can show through the paint, making it difficult to achieve an even appearance.

• Consider a Thick Primer: Applying a thick primer before painting can help reduce the visibility of the wallpaper’s texture, although it may not eliminate it completely.
• Multiple Coats: In some cases, additional coats of paint are needed to achieve the desired look. However, keep in mind that this approach may only reduce rather than remove visible patterns or textures.

Tips for Painting Over Wallpaper Successfully

If you decide that painting over wallpaper is the best route, there are a few key steps to ensure a high-quality finish. Proper preparation and the right materials make a big difference in the final result.

1. Clean and Prep the Wallpaper

Before applying any paint, I always clean the wallpaper surface to remove dust, grease, or debris that could interfere with adhesion. A gentle wipe-down with a mild soap solution can be effective, as long as it’s fully dried afterward.

• Sanding for Smoothness: Lightly sanding the wallpaper, especially if it has a slight sheen, can help the paint adhere better and reduce texture visibility.
• Apply Adhesive to Loose Edges: For any lifting or loose sections, I use wallpaper adhesive to secure them, ensuring that the entire surface is smooth and stable.

2. Use a High-Quality Primer

Applying a quality primer is essential when painting over wallpaper. Primer helps to seal the wallpaper, making it less likely that the paper will peel or that the pattern will show through.

• Choose a Stain-Blocking Primer: Stain-blocking primers are especially useful, as they prevent any wallpaper colours or patterns from bleeding through the paint.
• Apply Evenly: I make sure the primer is applied evenly, covering all areas to create a consistent base for the topcoat.

3. Apply Multiple Thin Coats of Paint

To avoid heavy buildup that can lead to peeling, it’s best to apply several thin coats of paint rather than one thick layer. This technique creates a smoother, more even finish and helps the paint adhere properly to the wallpaper.

• Allow Drying Time Between Coats: Proper drying time between coats ensures that the paint sets well, reducing the risk of peeling or streaking.
• Choose the Right Paint Finish: For best results, I recommend using a durable, washable paint in a finish that suits the room’s use—satin or eggshell for most rooms, with semi-gloss in areas that need more moisture resistance, like bathrooms or kitchens.

When Removing Wallpaper Might Be the Better Choice

In some situations, removing the wallpaper is the best option. If the wallpaper is severely damaged or if you’re looking for the most professional finish possible, taking it down first may be worth the extra effort.

• Severely Damaged Wallpaper: If there are many areas with peeling or damage, removing the wallpaper is often the best approach to avoid an uneven result.
• Preference for a Smooth Finish: For those seeking a completely smooth, flawless surface, removing wallpaper provides a clean slate that is ideal for painting.

Conclusion

So, is painting over wallpaper a good idea? It depends on the condition of the wallpaper, the desired outcome, and the specific requirements of the space. In some cases, painting over wallpaper can be a time-saving and effective solution that avoids the challenges of removal. However, it’s essential to prepare the surface well, use a quality primer, and apply the paint carefully to ensure the best possible finish.

At A-Z Decorators, I’m here to help you make the right choice for your decorating project. Whether you decide to paint over existing wallpaper or remove it entirely, I bring a professional touch to every job. Contact me today to discuss your project, and let’s create a space that looks polished and stands the test of time. For more decorating tips, check out our blog on “The Best Types of Paint for Walls” or read about “Preparing Surfaces for Painting”.