Removing unwanted wallpaper may seem like a daunting task.
It requires time and the uncertainty of what lies beneath the current covering is often a cause for concern.
What surprise awaits you under the wallpaper? Another layer to remove? Damaged walls?
These unforeseen circumstances can lead to additional costs and time to restore your walls.
Fortunately, there is a solution: painting can actually help you avoid these inconveniences.
Learning how to paint directly over wallpaper could be the answer to your problem.
To find out how to transform your walls without stripping them, keep reading.
Can you paint over wallpaper?
It is possible to paint over wallpaper, but it is not always recommended.
Ben Thomson, manager at Promain Paints, explains that you should avoid painting over textured wallpaper, vinyl-coated wallpaper, or wallpaper that easily peels off.
These situations can result in an uneven finish and reduce the durability of the paint.
Additionally, very old or damaged wallpaper may not adhere well to the paint.
If you are considering this cost-effective method to renovate your walls, it is wise to seek the advice of a professional painter.
Paige NeJame, owner of CertaPro Painters, generally recommends not painting over wallpaper.
She explains that the paint moistens the surface and can weaken the wallpaper adhesive, leading to blisters and wrinkles.
If this occurs, you will need to remove not only the wallpaper and glue, but also the paint and primer, tripling the difficulty of the job.
However, she acknowledges that careful preparation can lead to successful completion of the task.
How to paint over wallpaper: 5 key steps
Painting over wallpaper differs from painting on bare walls such as plaster or drywall.
Some aspects of the process may be familiar to you, but others, less obvious, are crucial for the success of your project.
- Thorough inspection: Check the condition of the wallpaper.
Make sure it is firmly adhered to the wall and shows no signs of peeling or damage.
2. Cleaning: Dust and wash the wallpaper.
A clean surface ensures better paint adhesion.
3. Repair imperfections: Glue down peeling edges and fill in holes.
An even wall is essential for optimal results.
4. Apply a primer: Choose a suitable primer for painting over wallpaper.
This will block stains and ensure proper paint adhesion.
5. Painting: Apply the paint of your choice following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Two coats are often necessary to achieve a smooth and durable finish.
Following these steps will help you achieve a satisfactory result while avoiding common mistakes when painting over wallpaper.
Preparing the painting surface
Before starting, it is essential to clear the work area.
Remove hanging objects such as frames, shelves, and switch plates.
This preliminary step ensures even coverage without the risk of accidental stains.
Once the paint is dry and your project is completed, you can put these items back in place.
Protect moldings and frames
Before dipping brushes and rollers into paint, take the time to protect the elements you want to preserve.
If you have the technique to paint without prior protection, you are lucky and will save time.
Otherwise, use painter’s masking tape.
Apply it carefully to fixed elements such as moldings, door frames, and window frames.
This prevents paint from spilling over onto these areas during application.
Once the paint is finished, you can remove the tape and admire the precision of your work.
Inspection and wall preparation
Before starting to paint, carefully examine the wallpaper for damage such as peeling or bubbling.
Use a flashlight at a low angle to better spot defects.
Paige NeJame recommends removing the wallpaper completely if it does not adhere firmly to the wall.
She emphasizes that damaged areas before painting are often those that will pose problems later on.
The presence of damage does not mean you have to abandon your project.
If the wallpaper lifts in places, a simple application of wallpaper adhesive can solve the problem.
For cracks or holes, use putty to fill them, then sand the surface to make it smooth.
Apply a thin layer of joint compound on the wallpaper joints to flatten them permanently.
Don’t forget to sand the compound once it’s dry.
Ben Thomson advises lightly sanding all the wallpaper before starting painting, as this will promote primer adhesion.
NeJame also recommends cleaning the wallpaper thoroughly.
Wipe it with a slightly damp cloth and a mild detergent solution, such as a drop of dish soap in warm water.
This will remove dirt, dust, grease, and residue.
It is crucial that the surface is completely dry before moving on to the next step, to allow for proper adhesion of the primer and paint.
Applying a quality primer
Applying a primer is a crucial step in preparing your wallpaper for painting.
Paige NeJame emphasizes the importance of this process: “Applying a primer seals the wallpaper, preventing paint from penetrating it and creating a smooth surface for painting.”
It is recommended to use a high-quality primer designed to be applied on wallpaper.
She recommends stain-blocking primers from reputable brands such as Kilz and Zinsser.
Regardless of your choice, opt for a shellac- or oil-based primer; a water-based primer could seep into the wallpaper and weaken the adhesive.
After laying down a drop cloth, apply the primer evenly with a roller or brush.
Respect the complete drying time indicated by the manufacturer.
Painting the wallpaper: double application
Avoid the temptation to apply a thick layer of paint.
Paige NeJame points out that applying two thin coats, allowing sufficient drying time between them, ensures better coverage and a smoother finish.
“Use a roller for large surfaces and a brush for edges and corners for a clean finish,” adds Ben Thomson.
Long, even strokes are recommended to prevent brush and roller marks.
NeJame and Thomson recommend choosing a high-quality latex paint for its durability, adhesive power, quick drying, and ease of application.
It is also necessary to choose an appropriate finish: “The more matte the paint finish, the less imperfections will be visible.
A glossier paint, such as satin or semi-gloss, will tend to highlight defects.”
Practical guide: Painting over wallpaper in 5 essential steps
For additional painting tips, check out the links below!
Step 1: Thorough inspection
- Check the adhesion strength of the wallpaper to the wall.
- Look for signs of peeling or damage.
Step 2: Cleaning
- Remove dust and wash the wallpaper for a clean surface.
- Ensure the wall is dry for better paint adhesion.
Step 3: Repair
- Secure peeling edges with wallpaper adhesive.
- Fill in holes and cracks with putty and sand for a smooth surface.
Step 4: Applying primer
- Choose a suitable primer for wallpaper.
- Apply it evenly and let it dry completely.
Step 5: Painting
- Prefer two thin coats of paint over a thick one.
- Alternate between roller for large surfaces and brush for finishing touches.
For optimal results, follow these steps and avoid common mistakes when painting over wallpaper.
