Can you paint over wallpaper?

A question we often hear is, “Can you paint over wallpaper?” The short answer is yes, you can. However, it’s not always the best option for every situation. Painting over wallpaper can be a quick fix if you don’t want to go through the hassle of removing it. But there are things to consider before you grab your paintbrush. At AAA Fast Plastering, we offer wall painting, insulation, and plastering services in Shellharbour and the Greater Illawarra Regions, and we’ve seen all kinds of wall painting projects. Let’s get into the details of wall painting over wallpaper and what you should know before starting.

Can you paint over wallpaper?

Assessing the wallpaper condition

Before deciding to paint over wallpaper, the first thing to do is assess its condition. If the wallpaper is peeling, damaged, or has a textured surface, painting over it might not give you the best results. Here are some things to check:

Peeling or loose edges – If the wallpaper is peeling or has loose edges, painting over it won’t fix these issues. You’ll need to glue down any loose edges and smooth out any bubbles.

Texture – Textured wallpaper can show through the paint. If the texture is too pronounced, you might not get a smooth finish with wall painting.

Cleanliness – Make sure the wallpaper is clean. Dust, dirt, and grease can prevent the paint from adhering properly.

Preparing the wallpaper

Once you’ve decided that painting over the wallpaper is a viable option, preparation is key. Proper preparation can make a big difference in the final result of your wall painting project. Here’s how to get started:

Use a damp cloth to clean the wallpaper. Remove any dust, dirt, or grease. This helps the paint stick better. Then fix any small tears or holes in the wallpaper. Use adhesive to glue down any loose edges and smooth out bubbles.

Before wall painting, lightly sand the wallpaper to create a rough surface. This helps the primer and paint adhere better. Be careful not to sand too hard and damage the wallpaper. Follow it with a high-quality primer to the wallpaper. Primer helps cover patterns and creates a good base for the paint. Let the primer dry completely before moving on to painting.

Choosing the right paint

When it comes to wall painting over wallpaper, choosing the right paint is important. Here are some tips on selecting the best paint for the job:

Use water-based paint rather than oil-based paint. Water-based paint is less likely to react with the wallpaper adhesive.

Choose a matte or eggshell finish. These finishes are more forgiving and can help hide any imperfections in the wallpaper.

Darker colours can help hide any patterns or textures that might show through the paint. However, lighter colours can work well if you use a good primer.

Painting over wallpaper

Now that you’ve prepared the wallpaper and chosen the right paint, it’s time to start wall painting. Here’s a step-by-step guide to painting over wallpaper:

Cover the floor and any furniture with drop cloths. Use painter’s tape to protect trim and edges. Then use a brush to cut in around the edges of the wall. This means painting the edges and corners where a roller can’t reach.

Use a roller to apply the paint to the wall. Work in small sections and use even strokes. Be sure to overlap the edges to avoid visible lines. You’ll likely need two or more coats of paint to get good coverage. Let each coat dry completely before applying the next.

Once the paint is dry, remove the painter’s tape and touch up any areas that need it.

Pros and cons of painting over wallpaper

While wall painting over wallpaper can be a quick fix, it’s important to consider the pros and cons:

Pros

• Saves time. Removing wallpaper can be a time-consuming process. Painting over it saves time and effort.
• Less messy. Stripping wallpaper can be messy. Painting over it is a cleaner option.
• Cost-effective. If you’re on a budget, painting over wallpaper can save money on labor and materials.

Cons

• Not a permanent solution. Painting over wallpaper is not a permanent fix. Over time, the wallpaper can peel or bubble, affecting the paint job.
• Surface imperfections. If the wallpaper has texture or damage, it can show through the paint, resulting in an uneven finish.
• Potential for future issues. If the wallpaper starts to peel or bubble in the future, you’ll need to address these issues, which might mean removing the wallpaper eventually.

When to remove wallpaper

While wall painting over wallpaper is an option, sometimes it’s better to remove it. Here are some situations where you should consider removing the wallpaper instead:

If the wallpaper is severely damaged or peeling, it’s better to remove it for a smoother finish.

If there are multiple layers of wallpaper, painting over it can result in a lumpy finish. Removing the layers can give you a better base for painting.

In high-moisture areas like bathrooms, it’s better to remove the wallpaper. Moisture can cause the wallpaper to peel, even under paint.

So, can you paint over wallpaper? Yes, you can, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and prepare properly. If done right, wall painting over wallpaper can give you a fresh, new look without the struggle and annoying procedure of removing the wallpaper. However, for the best results, sometimes removing the wallpaper is the way to go.

AAA Fast Plastering gets that every wall painting project is unique. Whether you decide to paint over wallpaper or remove it first, we’re here to help with professional plastering, painting, and insulation services in Shellharbour and the Greater Illawarra Regions. If you have any questions or need expert advice, feel free to reach out to us. Happy painting!