Curious if you can refresh a room by painting over existing wallpaper? Contrary to what many believe, you don’t need to remove the wallpaper to redecorate. If done correctly, painting over wallpaper can save you time, effort, and cost.
Preparation is key, according to Ruth Mottershead, a creative director. She emphasizes that proper prep work significantly impacts the quality of your final results. "Take the time to prep the night before you plan to paint, allowing yourself to apply two coats and finish the room in one day," she advises.
Steps for Painting Over Wallpaper
While painting over wallpaper seems straightforward, there are additional steps to ensure a successful outcome and prevent any unexpected issues later.
Here are essential techniques and tips from experts to achieve a polished finish.
Is Painting Over Wallpaper Recommended?
When consulting industry professionals about painting over wallpaper, most will likely suggest against it. Generally, it’s advisable to remove old wallpaper and, if you’re replacing it, learn how to apply new wallpaper instead. However, removing wallpaper can come with its own challenges.
As Aaron Markwell, a color expert, points out, “Removing wallpaper can potentially damage the wall underneath, especially in older homes. It can also be a lengthy process if multiple layers are present, making painting a more attractive option.”
If time is limited, painting over wallpaper may be the best choice. Yet, there are situations where removal is necessary. “If the wallpaper is peeling or shows signs of mold, you must address the underlying issue instead of merely painting over it,” Aaron warns.
1. Clean the Walls
The first step is to wipe down the wallpaper with a damp cloth. According to Tony Adams, an interior designer and professional painter, “Dirt or dust present on the wallpaper can prevent paint from adhering properly, leading to peeling later.” He suggests using a diluted TSP solution, particularly for greasy walls, but a mild detergent will suffice too. Ensure the walls are completely dry afterward.
2. Check for Surface Imperfections
The cleaning phase is an excellent opportunity to identify any uneven areas that require repairs.
“Inspect for cracks, screw holes, seams, and imperfections, using filler where necessary. Sand smooth any repaired areas to ensure a seamless look when painted,” Ruth advises.
If you notice any peeling wallpaper edges, secure them with adhesive. Avoid the temptation to paint over these problematic areas, as they will lead to further issues and costly repairs later.
3. Seal the Seams
“For overlapping seams, gently peel them off using a putty knife, then fill the gaps with joint compound. Allow it to dry and sand again to achieve a smooth finish,” suggests Jan Walter, founder of Gocolourize.
4. Apply a Primer
Next, coat the walls with a primer. This step ensures a smooth, white surface that is much easier to paint over, resulting in a higher quality finish. Opt for an oil-based primer, as Tony warns that a water-based one can soak into the wallpaper and weaken the adhesive. This can cause bubbling or detachment of the wallpaper from the wall, which is not ideal.
If you’re working with a particularly bold or patterned wallpaper, consider applying a white matte emulsion over the primer as well.
5. Use At Least Two Coats of Paint
Once the primer is fully dry, it’s time to apply the topcoat. Start by painting in the corners and work in horizontal bands from top to bottom.
“A popular tool among DIYers is a roller for the walls and a 2-inch brush for cutting in along the edges. For a smooth finish, a microfiber roller sleeve works best,” says Helen Shaw from Benjamin Moore.
For optimal results, apply a second coat of paint, especially if the underlying wallpaper is brightly colored or patterned.
What Type of Paint Should You Use for Wallpaper?
If you’ve applied an oil-based primer, you can use any type of paint on top—just ensure it’s high quality. Avoid using a water-based primer, as this can cause the wallpaper to bubble or loosen over time.
Can You Paint Over Any Wallpaper?
Theoretically, yes, as long as it isn’t fabric-backed vinyl. However, the finish quality will vary based on what you’re covering, which could influence your decision. “If you’re uncertain, test a small area first to see how the paint interacts with the surface—especially if the wallpaper has a shiny finish,” Ruth advises.
Textured wallpaper can be particularly challenging to remove, making painting an appealing option. However, it may show through the paint, which isn't aesthetically pleasing. Skimming over it is possible but typically requires professional assistance and often necessitates the wallpaper's removal.
