If you've had enough of your old, outdated wallpaper, it can be tempting just to paint right over it. After all, we've all heard horror stories about wallpaper removal, ranging from crumbling drywall to endless layers of paper needing to be peeled away. According to most home improvement experts, wallpaper should be removed before painting whenever possible, as you'll experience better results.
Want to change the look of your room with paint, but your walls are papered? Read this guide to learn when and how to paint over wallpaper. Painting after removing wallpaper requires proper prep to ensure a smooth, lasting finish. Leftover glue and wall imperfections can cause paint issues if not handled correctly.
This guide covers the key steps-from cleaning and repairing the walls to priming-so you're ready to apply fresh paint with professional results. And once you learn how to paint a room -or even check whether that old can of paint is still usable -DIYing can be an easier, more cost-effective alternative to hiring a professional. But what if your walls are covered in wallpaper? That's where things get trickier.
If it's decades-old wallpaper, removing it might feel like a daunting task. Wondering if you can paint over the old wallpaper in your home without removing it? You might be able to, depending on the wallpaper you're working with. Here's what the experts have to say.
Introduction It's generally recommended to remove wallpaper before painting a wall. But like most things in life, there are exceptions to this rule. Consider painting over wallpaper if removing it will be cost prohibitive or damage the wall.
Previously painted wallpaper can be time-consuming and expensive to remove, so it's a good candidate for paint. Same with wallpaper hung without a primer. Deciding whether to remove wallpaper or paint over it is a common dilemma for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts.
Both options have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on factors such as the condition of the wallpaper, the wall underneath, and your desired outcome. Removing wallpaper can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, but it ensures a smooth, clean surface for painting or new. Learn how to remove wallpaper in 6 simple steps; including helpful tips from Benjamin Moore professionals to guide a successful wallpaper removal.
Painting over wallpaper is a good way to change the look to a solid color without removing the wallpaper. Learn how to paint over wallpaper. Removing wallpaper can be a big chore.
Learn how to tell if your wallpaper can be painted over and find tips on how to prep before painting.