Wise Dublin Painting Contractors Blog: Freshen Up Your Space by Painting Over Wallpaper

Whether you’re tired of the same old wallpaper, don’t like the previous occupant’s décor, or want to give a room a budget-friendly makeover, you might be asking, “Can you paint over wallpaper?” The short answer is, “Yes, you can.”

Read on for more information, tips, and tricks on how to give your wallpapered walls a fresh new look.

The Case for Painting Over Wallpaper

Many experts advise against painting over wallpaper, recommending removal instead. However, this isn't always the best approach. Stripping old wallpaper can be a challenging task. If you remove it and find flaky paint or exposed brickwork, you’ll have significant prep work before painting.

If the wallpaper was applied directly to plasterboard, removing it could cause damage that needs repair. Given these potential complications, it’s understandable to ask, “Can you paint over wallpaper?”

That being said, painting over wallpaper isn’t always ideal. For example, you shouldn’t paint over fabric-backed vinyl wallpaper. While you can paint over non-fabric-backed vinyl wallpaper, it may require multiple coats and still not provide the desired finish. Additionally, avoid painting over wallpaper that’s peeling in multiple places.

Pros and Cons of Painting Over Wallpaper

Pros:

• You only need to worry about the wallpaper’s condition, not the wall underneath.

• Painting over wallpaper is quicker and easier than removing it.

• It creates less mess compared to stripping old wallpaper.

Cons:

• Significant repair and preparation work might be needed to make the wallpaper paint-ready.

• You may need to use a primer or undercoat in addition to the topcoat, which can be more expensive.

• The finish might not be as good as on a freshly wallpapered and painted wall.

How to Paint Over Wallpaper: Tips and Tricks

Follow these steps for a smooth, budget-friendly makeover:

1. Determine If You Can Paint Over It

Not all wallpaper should be painted over. If the wallpaper has any raised patterns, it’s better to remove it to avoid cracks or visible lines. If you know what’s behind the wallpaper or if it appears to be in good condition without bubbles, you’re likely safe to start painting after priming. Be cautious of multiple wallpaper layers, especially in older homes, as the added weight may cause lower layers to peel.

If your wallpaper is peeling in certain areas, skim out the damaged sections and apply a 1200 grade lining paper before painting. This provides a protective layer, typical in older homes where thick lining paper is often used.

2. Clear the Walls

Remove any pictures, hangers, shelves, or wiring to start with a clear surface. Use filler to seal any holes or bumps. Wipe dust and dirt off the wallpaper with a cloth, as primer doesn’t adhere well to dust. Clean greasy or grimy wallpaper with a diluted TSP solution, but avoid soaking it to prevent loosening the adhesive. Allow ample drying time before proceeding.

3. Repair Any Damaged Wallpaper

Use wallpaper seam adhesive for peeling seams or edges. Alternatively, lift those areas with a putty knife, cut away loose bits, fill with spackle, and sand lightly once dry to create a level surface. For seams or corners that are peeling, cut them out and use regular easy fill to create a flat surface.

4. Prime the Walls

Many wallpaper pastes are water-based, so avoid water-based primers that might reactivate the glue. Use an oil-based primer or shellac for a clean, hard surface. Apply the primer with a brush for edges and corners, then use a roller for the rest of the wall. Allow plenty of drying time per the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure the room is well-ventilated. Don’t worry if the paper bubbles initially; it often tightens back up as it dries.

5. Paint Over the Wallpaper

Once the wall is cleaned, repaired, and primed, paint over the wallpaper as you would any other surface. You may need two coats if painting light over dark wallpaper. Allow ample drying time between coats.

Professional Help

For the best results, consider hiring a professional painting and decorating company like Wise Dublin Painting Contractors. Contact us for more information about our interior painting and decorating services to ensure your room makeover meets the highest standards.