Did you once choose a wallpaper you loved, but now it feels outdated? Wondering if painting over it is a better option than removing it? Not every wallpaper is paint-friendly, and it’s important to know what type you have before reaching for a brush. In this post, we’ll explain everything you need to know about painting over wallpaper and highlight the key points you should pay attention to during the process.
Can You Paint Over Wallpaper?
Some wallpapers are specially designed to be painted. These typically have a white, textured, non-woven (fiber) surface. Often called paintable wallpaper, this type is the easiest and most reliable option for painting.
Other than paintable wallpapers, there are two additional types you can generally paint over:
- Paper-based wallpaper: These have a paper surface that usually holds paint well. Just keep in mind that it might absorb a bit more paint, so you may need an extra coat.
- Vinyl-coated wallpaper: This has a thin, smooth vinyl layer that makes it easy to clean. However, this slick surface tends to resist paint. The good news is that with a quality primer, you can still paint over it successfully.
Things to Consider Before Painting Over Wallpaper
1-Check for Holes and Cracks
Inspect the wallpaper for any holes or cracks. Fill them with a water-based filler or spackling compound, let it dry completely, and then sand the area smooth before painting.
2-Check for Peeling or Bubbling
Look for areas where the wallpaper is peeling at the edges or forming air bubbles. If it’s coming loose, it’s a sign it wasn’t properly attached or has weakened over time. In these cases, it’s better to remove the wallpaper entirely. But if you still prefer to paint over it:
- Cut out the air bubbles with a utility knife.
- Apply wallpaper adhesive underneath.
- Press it down and allow it to dry for at least 24 hours before painting.
3-Will You Be Redecorating Again Soon?
If you’re planning to redecorate in the near future, it’s better not to paint over wallpaper. Painted wallpaper can be very difficult to remove later and might damage the underlying drywall or plaster when you try. Even if the wallpaper looks solid now, paint can weaken the adhesive over time, leading to peeling or bubbling. For a long-lasting, clean finish, it’s always smarter to remove the wallpaper first and properly prep the wall before painting.
How to Paint Over Wallpaper
While we almost always recommend removing wallpaper first, it’s not always possible. In some cases, painting over wallpaper can be a quick way to give a space a fresh new look. If you’re set on painting over it, the details are below. But if you decide to remove the wallpaper and paint the wall instead, this might be helpful: “Related article: How to paint after removing wallpaper.”
1-Make Sure the Wallpaper is Secure
If the wallpaper you plan to paint isn’t firmly attached, the paint roller might pull it loose while painting. Check for any loose sections and reattach them with wallpaper adhesive. Let it dry thoroughly before starting.
2-Protect the Floor
Lay a drop cloth on the floor to catch any drips or splatters. Use painter’s tape to secure the edges of the drop cloth to your baseboards for full coverage.
3-Apply Primer
If your wallpaper isn’t specifically paintable, applying a primer is a smart move. A high-quality primer will help the paint stick better and block out any existing patterns or dark colors on the wallpaper. This is especially important if you’re painting over vinyl-coated wallpaper — we highly recommend using a stain-blocking primer for the best results.
4-Apply Two Coats of Paint
Just like regular walls, it’s best to apply at least two coats of paint to wallpaper. Allow the first coat to dry for at least 3 hours before applying the second.
Pro tip: If the wallpaper tends to stick to the roller, thin your first coat by about 20% with water. This will reduce suction and prevent the roller from pulling at the wallpaper.
Tools You’ll Need
- Drop cloth
- Painter’s tape
- Utility knife
- Wallpaper adhesive
- Putty knife
- Water-based filler (spackling compound)
- Sandpaper
- Paint roller and tray
- Paintbrush (for corners and edges)
- Stain-blocking primer
- Interior wall paint (latex or acrylic-based)
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of paint can you use on wallpaper?
In general, you can use most wall paints to paint over wallpaper. However, instead of oil-based paints, flexible, water-based latex paints are the best option for this job.
How to prep wallpaper for painting?
Check for peeling edges, bubbles, and cracks. Reattach loose areas with wallpaper adhesive and fill holes with water-based filler. Clean the surface with a damp cloth, let it dry, and cover the floor with a drop cloth. Finally, apply a stain-blocking primer before painting.
Can you paint over 20-year-old wallpaper?
Yes, you can paint over 20-year-old wallpaper, but you’ll need to ensure it’s in good condition. Check for any peeling, cracks, or damage. If the wallpaper is still firmly attached and not deteriorating, you can follow the usual prep steps and apply paint. However, if it’s showing signs of wear, removing it might be a better option for a long-lasting result.
Do I need to remove wallpaper before painting?
Ideally, yes. While it’s possible to paint over wallpaper, removing it first is the best option for a smooth, long-lasting finish. Painted wallpaper can be difficult to remove later and may cause damage to the wall surface. However, if removal isn’t an option, make sure the wallpaper is secure and properly prepped before painting.
