Homeowners and renters looking to refresh a room often wonder about the easiest path to a new look. Can you cover wallpaper with new wallpaper is a common question, and the straightforward answer is yes, you absolutely can. This method is generally more efficient than stripping old paper, saving both time and potential damage to your walls. However, success depends heavily on the condition of the existing layer and the type of wallpaper you choose for the update.
Assessing the Current Wallpaper
Before you start measuring your new design, a careful inspection is crucial. The integrity of the current wallpaper dictates whether a direct overlay will be successful or a disaster waiting to happen. You need to determine if the surface is securely bonded to the wall or if it is already loosening at the seams or edges.
Look for signs of bubbling, peeling, or cracking, which indicate that the old paper is failing. If the existing wallpaper is vinyl-coated or textured, it provides a suitable grip for the new adhesive. However, if the paper is damaged or the paste has dried out, attempting to layer new material on top will likely result in a messy and uneven finish.
The Surface Prep Factor
Surface preparation is the single most important step in achieving a seamless result. Even if the old wallpaper seems sturdy, any gloss or sheen must be eliminated to ensure the new paste adheres correctly. You will need to sand the entire surface lightly or apply a liquid deglosser to create a rough, matte texture.
Additionally, you must address any protruding elements like scuffs, nail holes, or raised patterns on the old paper. These imperfections will telegraph through the new layer, so filling them with spackle and sanding them flush is a necessary step. A clean, smooth base ensures the final look looks professional rather than amateurish.
Choosing the Right Wallpaper
Selecting the correct type of new paper is essential for a successful overlay. Standard paper or plain vinyl might tear or separate when the adhesive sticks to the old layer, making it difficult to reposition.
- Vinyl-over-Vinyl: This is the most reliable combination for covering old wallpaper. The new vinyl layer adheres well to the old one, creating a durable and washable surface.
- Textured or Fabric: If the existing wallpaper is smooth, a textured or fabric-backed new paper might struggle to bond properly, increasing the risk of future detachment.
Measuring for Perfection
Precise measurements are vital to avoid waste and ensure pattern alignment. Measure the height and width of your walls, accounting for outlets and switches, before ordering your new paper. It is generally wise to order an extra roll or two to account for matching patterns and any potential mistakes during application.
When calculating the amount needed, remember that you might need to trim the top and bottom of the new wallpaper if the old layer is significantly uneven. Having a professional-grade paste and a smoothing tool on hand will make the installation process much smoother and less stressful.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
While covering is a popular shortcut, it is not without its challenges. The biggest risk involves the hidden condition of the old paper. If there is mold, moisture damage, or loose seams beneath the surface, the new wallpaper will trap that problem, leading to bubbling or peeling later on.
If you encounter a stubborn old pattern that is visible through the new solid color, you might need to use a heavier paper or apply a coat of lining paper first. This creates a neutral base that prevents the old design from showing through, ensuring your new aesthetic remains exactly as you envisioned it.
When Stripping is Better
Although the question "can you cover wallpaper with new wallpaper" usually results in a yes, there are specific scenarios where full removal is the better choice. If the existing paper is heavily damaged, lifting in multiple places, or made of old hand-painted material, attempting to overlay is likely to waste time and money.
Stripping the old layer ensures that you start with a blank canvas, allowing you to inspect the drywall for any necessary repairs. While this method is more labor-intensive, it provides the ultimate clean slate and prevents any hidden debris or old adhesive from compromising the new installation.