Many homes still carry wallpaper from previous owners. Some patterns feel dated, others are bold in a way that no longer fits the space. The first idea that comes to mind is usually removing wallpaper, but that thought alone can bring images of mess, dust, glue, and torn drywall. So the real question becomes, can you paint over wallpaper and still get good results?
The short answer is yes, you can. The longer answer depends on the condition of the wallpaper, the room, and how much prep you are willing to take on. Remember: painting wallpaper is not the same as painting bare walls. Skipping steps often leads to peeling, bubbles, or uneven texture later. Still, for many homeowners, it can be a cost-effective, time-saving option.
When Painting Over Wallpaper Makes Sense
If the wallpaper is in good condition, firmly stuck, and free of moisture damage, painting over it can work. This often applies to one wall or even an entire wall where the paper is smooth and seams are tight. Textured wallpaper can be trickier, but it is not always a deal breaker.
A few signs that painting wallpaper may be a good idea:
- No loose bits or peeling edges
- Seams that lie flat against the wall
- No bubbles or soft spots
- No water stains, especially in a bathroom or near windows
If you notice glue failure, large bubbles, or areas where the paper is lifting, removing wallpaper may be the better choice. Paint tends to highlight problems rather than hide them.
Rooms Where Painting Wallpaper Works Best
A living room or bedroom with stable temperature and low humidity is usually easier.
However, kitchens and bathrooms need extra care. Steam, warm water, and wear over time can weaken wallpaper adhesive. Even if everything looks fine now, moisture can cause peeling after the paint job is done.
When To Reconsider Painting Wallpaper
If the wallpaper is heavily textured, damaged, or peeling in multiple areas, painting may not stick well. In those cases, removing wallpaper and repairing the wall may be the better long term fix, even if it feels like more work upfront.
If you are dealing with older homes where wallpaper was applied directly to drywall without sizing, removal can damage the surface. Painting over it may protect the wall underneath, but only if prep is done correctly.
How to Paint Wallpaper in 3 Simple Steps
Follow these steps to paint over wallpaper and get the best results possible.
1. Prepare The Surface
Prep is where most of the work lives. Skipping this step often leads to poor results, no matter how good the paint is.
- Start by clearing the room. Move furniture, cover floors, protect windows, and tape edges carefully.
- Clean the wallpaper first. Use a barely damp cloth with warm water to remove grease, dust, and residue. Avoid soaking the paper. Too much water can loosen glue and create bubbles.
- Inspect closely. Look at seams, corners, and the wallpaper border if there is one. Press down any lifting areas and use wallpaper adhesive if needed. Small repairs now prevent bigger issues later.
- If the wallpaper has a noticeable texture or pattern, lightly sand the surface. This does not remove the paper, it simply helps smooth raised areas and improves adhesion. Wipe away dust after sanding so the primer sticks evenly.
- Fill any holes or dents with filler, then sand smooth once dry. Even small imperfections can show through fresh paint.
2. Apply The Right Primer
Primer matters more than the paint itself in this situation. A water based primer is often used, but an oil based primer is usually the safer choice for wallpaper. Oil based primer seals the paper, blocks stains, and prevents moisture from activating the glue underneath.
Water based primer can work in some cases, but it carries more risk of softening the paper. Many professionals prefer oil based primer because it creates a solid barrier between wallpaper and paint.
Apply primer evenly across the entire wall. Do not rush drying time. Let it cure fully before moving on. This layer helps create a smooth surface and improves coverage.
3. Start Painting With The Proper Technique
Once the primer is dry, you can start painting. Water based paint is common for interior spaces and works well over a properly primed surface.
Bold colors can work over wallpaper, but they often require multiple layers to fully cover patterns. Lighter colors may show texture more easily. If the wallpaper has a strong pattern, choose a paint color and finish that helps soften it rather than highlight it.
Painting one wall as an accent is common, but be aware that differences in texture between walls can be noticeable once everything is painted. Sometimes doing the entire wall or room creates a more cohesive look.
When choosing a finish, make sure it fits the room. Satin or eggshell often hides minor texture better than flat paint.
One coat rarely fully covers wallpaper pattern or texture, so plan for two coats for the best results. The first coat may look uneven, and that is normal. Allow proper drying time between coats to avoid pulling at the surface.
Keep these in mind when applying paint:
- Use steady pressure, do not overwork the roller
- Cut in edges gently to avoid lifting seams
- Let each layer dry fully before adding the next
In some cases, a second coat is enough. But sometimes a third coat is needed, depending on color and texture. The goal is to fully cover the wallpaper and create a consistent look.
Common Problems To Watch For
Even with careful prep, issues can happen. Keep an eye out for bubbles forming during or after painting. Small bubbles can sometimes settle as the paint dries. Larger ones may need to be cut, glued, and patched.
Peeling paint often points to poor adhesion, moisture issues, or skipped prep. This is why priming and drying time matter so much.
Texture may still show through, especially with textured wallpaper. Paint does not remove texture, it only coats it. If a smooth wall is the goal, removing wallpaper and repairing drywall or plaster may be the better idea.
Is Painting Better Than Removing Wallpaper?
Removing wallpaper can reveal damaged drywall, torn paper, or uneven plaster. That often leads to filling, sanding, and more prep than expected. Painting over wallpaper avoids that mess and can save time.
That said, painting wallpaper is not always the long term solution. If the paper is old or already failing, paint may only delay problems. Deciding comes down to condition, budget, and how long you want the results to last.
Final Thoughts
So, can you paint over wallpaper? Yes! In fact, many homeowners do it successfully. It can be cost effective, less messy, and faster than removing wallpaper. Especially when the paper is in good condition. Still, it takes time, tools, prep, and patience to get good results.
If you would rather avoid potential peeling and enjoy a smooth, professional finish, it may be easier to let experienced interior painters handle it. You can call us at (704) 924-1800 or message us here to talk about your space and get help deciding the best approach for your home.