Painting Over Wallpaper: Tips & Tricks From The Pros

Painting over existing wallpaper can be a good alternative to removing it if the wallpaper is well stuck and removal will damage the walls. But getting a smooth finish requires preparation and technique. Here’s how to paint over wallpaper and the steps to follow for a good result.

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But Should You  Paint Over Wallpaper?

Yes painting wallpaper can be a cost effective and quick way to update a room but you need to assess the condition of the wallpaper first. If it’s peeling, heavily textured or has big seams these imperfections will show through the paint and ruin the finish. Generally smooth, well stuck wallpaper with minimal seams is the best candidate for painting.

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The Basics of Painting Your Wallpaper

Painting over wallpaper can be a cost effective and quick way to update a room. But you need to understand the basics before you start. The key to a good paint job is to assess the wallpaper’s adhesion to the wall, the material of the wallpaper itself and the surface texture. Some wallpapers are more paintable than others. Smooth wallpaper with a strong adhesive is best for painting over, textured or loose wallpaper will require extra preparation.

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Pros and Cons of Painting Wallpaper

Pros:

• Less work: Removing wallpaper especially if it’s old can be time consuming and damaging to walls. Painting over it is generally quicker.
• Cost effective: Saves on the cost of professional wallpaper removal or repair if you’d need to fix wall damage afterwards.
• Short term solution: Good if you plan to re wallpaper or replace the wallpaper in a few years.
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Cons:

• It won’t look perfect: Any texture or seams in the wallpaper will show through even with multiple coats of paint.
• Future problems: If you ever want to remove the wallpaper the paint layers will make it harder.
• Peeling: If the wallpaper isn’t well stuck the moisture from the paint can cause it to bubble or peel.
• Textured wallpaper: Textured wallpaper is particularly tricky to paint over as the texture will show through the paint even with multiple coats.

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Preparing the Walls

Preparing the walls for painting is the key to a smooth finish. Start by removing any loose or peeling sections of wallpaper with a utility knife or putty knife. Be careful not to damage the wall surface. Then clean the walls with a mild detergent solution to remove any dirt, dust or oily residue. Use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub the walls and avoid using abrasive materials that will damage the wallpaper.

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Priming For Paint

Priming the walls is a must when painting over wallpaper. Use a good quality primer that is suitable for painting over wallpaper, an oil based primer or a shellac based primer. These primers have great adhesion and will seal the wallpaper so no colors or patterns will show through the new paint layer. Apply the primer evenly and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

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How to Paint Over Wallpaper: Oil Based Primer

1. Clean the Wallpaper

• Why: Dirt, dust and oils from fingerprints will prevent paint from sticking.
• What to do: Wipe down the wallpaper with a soft cloth or sponge and a mild detergent solution. Rinse with a damp cloth and let the surface dry completely.

2. Secure and Repair Loose Sections

• Why: Loose or peeling wallpaper will show up even more once painted.
• What to do: Use wallpaper adhesive or strong glue to reattach any lifting edges or seams. Smooth down with a putty knife or your fingers to remove any air bubbles. Let the glue dry before moving on.

3. Fill and Smooth Seams

• Why: Visible seams will show up as uneven areas once painted.
• What to do: Make sure the whole wall is smooth by filling and sanding any seams or imperfections. If the seams are very deep use a lightweight spackling compound to fill them in. Once dry sand down the area lightly. Be careful not to sand down to the wallpaper layer as this will damage it.

4. Prime

• Why: Primer will create a uniform base for your paint and prevent the wallpaper colour or pattern from showing through and help the paint stick better.
• What to do: Choose a good quality oil based or shellac based primer as these will stick better over wallpaper. Water based primers can sometimes loosen the wallpaper glue. Apply one coat of primer evenly with a roller or brush and let it dry completely.

5. Caulk the Edges (Optional)

• Why: Edges near trim or where the wallpaper ends is a weak spot for peeling.
• What to do: Apply a thin bead of caulk along these edges and smooth with your finger. This is optional but will help prevent future peeling.

6. Paint the Walls

• Why: The right paint and technique will give you a smooth finish.
• What to do: Choose a good quality latex paint in your desired color. Latex paint is flexible which is good for preventing cracking on the wallpaper surface. Apply at least two coats of paint for best coverage, let each coat dry completely before applying the next one. Use a roller for big areas and a brush for edges and corners.

7. Inspect and Touch Up

• Why: A final look will allow you to catch any spots you missed or areas that need another coat.
• What to do: Once the paint is dry, inspect the walls for imperfections. If needed apply a third coat or touch up with a small brush.
  

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Do Not's When Painting Over Wallpaper

When painting over wallpaper there are several don’ts. One of the biggest is not preparing the walls properly which will give you a bad paint job and uneven finish. Another is using the wrong type of primer or paint which will cause the paint to peel or flake off. Not removing loose or peeling sections of wallpaper will give you a rough and uneven surface. Not using painter’s tape to protect moldings, trim and other areas will give you a messy and unprofessional finish.

By following the basics, preparing the walls, priming the walls and avoiding the don’ts you will have a good paint job and a beautiful room.

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Tips for using Painter’s Tape

• Use Matte or Satin Finishes: These paint finishes are more forgiving and will hide minor imperfections in the wallpaper. Avoid gloss finishes as they will show up the flaws.

• Test a Small Area First: To make sure the wallpaper can take the paint test in an inconspicuous area. Watch for any bubbling or peeling after the primer and paint dry.
• Check your Wallpaper Type: Some vinyl wallpapers may not take paint well so testing is important if your wallpaper is vinyl or has a smooth finish.
  

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Painting over wallpaper will give you a fresh look and avoid the hassle of removing the wallpaper. With proper preparation and the right products you will have a clean and professional finish ready for decorating or showing to buyers.