If you find yourself weary of the same dated wallpaper adorning your walls, dread the previous resident’s design choices, or seek an economical way to revitalise a room, you’re likely contemplating, “Is it possible to paint over wallpaper?” The concise answer is a resounding “Yes.”
The Debate on Painting Over Wallpaper
Although many in the decorating industry are sceptical about painting directly onto wallpaper, advising complete removal instead, such a stance may not be universally applicable. Stripping old wallpaper is often a laborious process and may unveil an array of imperfections like flaking paint or compromised brickwork, which would require extensive preparation before painting.
Should your wallpaper be adhered straight onto plasterboard, its removal could become even more complicated, necessitating wall repairs. Hence, the query, “Can you paint over wallpaper?” is indeed a valid one.
However, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Painting over certain wallpapers, like fabric-backed vinyl, is not advised. Even vinyl wallpaper that lacks a fabric backing will require multiple paint coats and may still yield a subpar finish. Additionally, avoid painting over wallpaper that is peeling in several areas.
The Balancing Act: Pros and Cons
Before diving into the painting process, weigh the advantages and drawbacks.
Pros
- No need to fret about the wall condition, just the wallpaper
- A faster and more straightforward process compared to wallpaper removal
- Reduced mess compared to stripping old wallpaper
Cons
- Potential for extensive repair and prep work on the wallpaper itself
- Necessity for primer or undercoat, increasing costs
- Final result might not match freshly wallpapered and painted walls
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Over Wallpaper
Assess the Wallpaper
Certain wallpapers are unsuitable for painting, like those with embossing. If you installed the wallpaper yourself or are aware of its background, you’ll have a better understanding of whether painting over it is feasible. If the paper seems secure and free from air bubbles, you are likely good to proceed with priming and painting.
For wallpapers that are slightly damaged but you still wish to paint over, applying a 1200 grade lining paper can offer added protection.
Prepare the Surface
Remove any pictures, shelves, or wires and fill in any holes with filler. Wipe away any dust and dirt with a cloth. If the wallpaper is greasy or grimy, a diluted TSP solution can be effective, but avoid soaking the wallpaper.
Repair Imperfections
For any peeling or damaged areas, apply a thin layer of wallpaper seam adhesive. Alternatively, cut away loose parts and fill with spackle, sanding it down once dry to create a level surface.
Prime with Care
Utilise an oil-based primer to avoid reactivating the water-based adhesive commonly used in wallpaper. Apply it carefully to edges and corners with a brush, and then use a roller for the rest of the surface. Always follow the manufacturer’s drying time guidelines.
Paint the Wall
Finally, once your primer is dry, you can paint over the wallpaper like any other surface. You may require two coats, particularly if covering dark or boldly patterned wallpaper.
To ensure a high-quality result, consider employing professional painting and decorating services like Flight Decorating.
