If you’ve just moved into a home with outdated wallpaper, you may be asking yourself: “Should I paint over it, or do I need to remove it first?” While removing wallpaper is usually the best long-term solution, painting over it can sometimes be a practical option. Here are answers to the most common questions homeowners have.
1. Can you paint over wallpaper?
Yes, in many cases you can. If the wallpaper is firmly attached, smooth, and in good condition, painting over it can save you time and effort.
2. When is it a bad idea to paint over wallpaper?
You should avoid painting over wallpaper if:
- The wallpaper is peeling or bubbling
- It’s fabric-backed or heavily textured
- There are multiple layers of wallpaper beneath
In these cases, removal is the better option.
3. What’s the process for painting over wallpaper?
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Clean the walls – Remove dust, grease, and dirt.
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Repair damage – Smooth seams, patch bubbles, and glue down loose edges.
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Prime the surface – Apply a high-quality bonding primer to seal the wallpaper.
- Paint – Use at least two coats of quality latex paint for best coverage.
Explore Randall’s paint collectionfor premium primers and paints.
4. Do I still need primer if I’m painting over wallpaper?
Absolutely. Primer prevents the wallpaper’s pattern or adhesive from bleeding through and helps the paint adhere properly.
5. Will paint over wallpaper last as long as regular paint?
Not always. Painted wallpaper is more prone to peeling over time, especially in high-moisture areas like bathrooms or kitchens. For durability, wallpaper removal is the better choice.
6. What type of paint works best on wallpaper?
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Latex paint is usually the safest choice since it’s flexible and dries quickly.
- Avoid oil-based paints, which can loosen wallpaper glue.
7. Can painting over wallpaper hide textures or patterns?
Primer and paint can help, but heavily textured or patterned wallpaper may still show through. In such cases, removal or skim coating the walls before painting gives a smoother result.
8. Should I hire a professional to handle this project?
Yes, especially if your wallpaper is old or stubborn. Professionals know whether it’s better to remove or paint over wallpaper for a lasting finish. Use our Painter Order Formto connect with trusted painters.
9. How do I maintain walls painted over wallpaper?
- Clean gently with mild soap and water.
- Avoid excessive scrubbing, which could loosen the wallpaper underneath.
- Touch up as needed, but expect repainting sooner than normal.
10. Can Randall’s help me decide whether to paint over or remove wallpaper?
Yes! Our team offers:
- In-store consultations for your project
- Professional recommendations on paints and primers
- Referrals to skilled painters through our services
- Personalized advice via our Contact Us
Painting over wallpaper can be a quick and effective solution, but it’s not always the most durable one. With the right prep, primer, and paint, you can refresh your walls without the hassle of removal. For a long-lasting finish, though, removal is often the smarter choice.
Randall’s is here to help you with expert advice, premium supplies, and professional painting services to ensure your walls look their best.