Can you paint over wallpaper?
Plus our best alternative solutions for when this isnt possible.
RUBEN BONILLA GONZALO / Getty Images
Can you paint over wallpaper?
Credit:RUBEN BONILLA GONZALO / Getty Images
However, it might be better to consider it an alternative rather than a first choice.
Terry Koubele is the owner of Five Star Painting, a residential and commercial painting service.
Can You Paint Over Wallpaper?
Credit:Edmund Barr
Can you paint over wallpaper?
The answer to the latter is dependent on other factors at play.
In these cases, you might forge ahead without first removing wallpaper.
At the top of the no-go list is painting over wallpaper to smooth out atextured surface.
No matter how many coats are used, paint will not cut it when covering up textured wallpaper.
Another scenario you shouldn’t try tosolve with paintinvolves damaged wallpaper.
Those imperfections, bumps, bubbles, and tears will remain visible after paint.
In those cases, removing the paper is the only way to go.
The first step is making sure the seams are properly glued to the walls.
Paint and primer that finds its way underneath can make the edges look even worse, says Koubele.
The same can be said for any loose ends.
To ensure the smoothest surface, youll also want toclean the wallpaperusing a dry duster or cloth.
How to Paint Over Wallpapered Walls
To paint over wallpaper effectively, Koubele shares this step-by-step guide.
Ventilate the painting area, open any windows or doors, and wear an N95 mask.
Youll also need to use a brush specifically designed for oils to grip the paint properly.
A tinted-gray primer works best fordarker colorsbecause it makes the paint more prominent.
Step 3: Paint Wallpaper
After the primer has dried overnight, its time to paint.
A high shine can highlightwallpaper imperfectionsor texture.
Crisscross to cover the entire wall.
Refer to the drying instructions on the paint can to determine when to apply the second coat.
The quickest and easiest way to get rid of unsightly wallpaper is simply to cover it up.
Tapestry
Large tapestries or wall hangings can cover up your wallpaper without a full renovation.
Faux Shiplap
A fullwallcovering like faux shiplapcan completely cover your wallpaper problem without repairing or priming beforehand.
If you don’t want that much wood in a room, you canpaint it instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Latex paint can be used over the oil-based primer.
Oil-based paint is a great option as well.
Yes, walls should be prepped with an oil-based primer.
Yes, as long as the wallpaper is still in good condition without any bumps or rips.
However, the moisture from the new paint might loosen the paste from the wallpaper.
This can cause bubbles.
If you pull too hard, you could cause damage to the drywall or the paint beneath.
