Changing the look of a room doesn’t always require removing old wallpaper. Many homeowners wonder, “Can you paint over wallpaper?” The short answer is yes, but there are some important considerations to ensure that the end result is smooth and durable. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about painting over wallpaper, including when it’s a good idea and when it might not be.
If you’re considering painting over wallpaper, it’s important to follow the correct steps and use the right materials. This guide will give you a step-by-step process, a list of supplies, and expert advice on what to do and what to avoid.
Can You Paint Over Wallpaper?
Yes, you can paint over wallpaper in many cases. However, success depends on three key factors: the wallpaper’s condition, its type, and your preparation quality.
Most paint manufacturers recommend removing wallpaper first. They’re not wrong. A bare wall gives the cleanest results. But removal can damage unfinished drywall underneath, especially in older homes. If someone installed wallpaper directly over raw plaster or unsealed drywall, stripping it may tear the wall surface.
The wallpaper must be smooth and firmly attached. Small scratches or minor wear are fine. But if you see multiple peeling spots, large tears, or loose seams across the wall, paint won’t fix these problems. It will highlight them.
Textured wallpaper presents another challenge. You can paint it, but the texture remains visible. Every bump and ridge shows through your paint job. If you want flat walls, textured wallpaper needs to come off first.
When Not To Paint Over Wallpaper
There are certain situations where painting over wallpaper isn’t advisable. Here are the key scenarios where you should skip the paint and consider removing the wallpaper instead:
1. Peeling or Damaged Wallpaper
If your wallpaper is peeling, ripped, or otherwise damaged, painting over it will only emphasize those flaws. The paint won’t be able to conceal the tears or seams, and your walls may end up looking even worse.
2. Textured Wallpaper
Some wallpapers, especially those with raised textures, can create an uneven surface when painted over. If you want a smooth, professional finish, textured wallpaper should be removed rather than painted over. While painting over textured wallpaper is possible, the result may not be the smooth, sleek wall you’re hoping for.
3. Glossy or Vinyl Wallpaper
High-gloss or vinyl-coated wallpapers can be tricky. These surfaces don’t absorb paint well and may cause the paint to peel or chip. In these cases, it’s best to strip the wallpaper or use a special type of primer before painting.
4. Old, Stubborn Wallpaper Adhesive
If your wallpaper was applied with an adhesive that’s still sticky or hasn’t fully set, painting over it may cause issues later. The adhesive could cause the paint to peel or create an uneven finish. It’s crucial to ensure the wallpaper adhesive is fully dry and set before attempting to paint.
If any of these conditions apply, it’s better to remove the wallpaper first. While it’s a more time-consuming process, you’ll likely get a better and longer-lasting result. But, if your wallpaper is in good condition and fits the criteria, painting over it can be a great option.
When to Paint Over Wallpaper
There are also situations where painting over wallpaper is a fantastic option. Here’s when it makes sense:
1. Smooth Wallpaper
If the wallpaper is smooth, without any major imperfections, it’s usually safe to paint over it. This includes wallpapers made from non-textured materials such as vinyl, paper, or fabric-backed vinyl, provided they’re not too glossy.
2. Undamaged Wallpaper
If the wallpaper is in good condition with no rips, tears, or loose seams it’s a good candidate for painting. Ensure that the wallpaper is securely attached to the wall, with no peeling or lifting, before starting the painting process.
3. Wallpaper with Subtle Patterns
Wallpaper with subtle patterns or solid colors is easier to paint over because the pattern won’t show through the paint. If you have a bold or dark-colored wallpaper, you may need a few coats of primer to fully cover the design.
4. Cost and Time Savings
Removing wallpaper can be a tedious, time-consuming, and expensive process. If you’re looking to update your room without the hassle and cost of removal, painting over wallpaper is an excellent alternative, especially if the wallpaper is in good shape.
If your wallpaper meets these conditions, painting over it can save you both time and money, while still providing a fresh, updated look for your room.
Understanding Different Wallpaper Types
- Vinyl wallpaper has a plastic coating. Most modern wallpaper is vinyl. It resists moisture but doesn’t bond well with paint. Only paint over vinyl if it’s smooth and firmly attached.
- Grasscloth wallpaper has a natural fiber texture. Paint soaks into the fibers unevenly. Results look blotchy. Remove grasscloth instead of painting it.
- Peel-and-stick wallpaper is removable by design. Don’t paint it. The adhesive weakens over time. Paint adds weight and causes peeling.
- Standard paper wallpaper works best for painting on top of wallpaper. It’s porous and accepts primer well. This is what most older homes have.
Supplies Needed to Paint Over Wallpaper
Gather these materials before starting:
For cleaning:
- Mild detergent or TSP (trisodium phosphate)
- Soft sponges or cloths
- Bucket of warm water
For repairs:
- Wallpaper seam adhesive
- Putty knife
- Spackle
- 150-180 grit sandpaper
- Palm or orbital sander (for textured wallpaper)
For protection:
- Painters tape or masking tape
- Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
- N95 mask (for oil-based primer fumes)
For painting:
- Oil-based primer (this is critical)
- Gray-tinted primer (for dark or bold patterns)
- Paint roller and microfiber roller cover
- 2-inch angled brush
- Roller cage frame
- Mineral spirits or paint thinner (for cleanup)
- Your chosen topcoat paint (latex or oil-based)
Total cost estimate: $50-$150 for a standard bedroom, depending on paint quality and wall size.
How to Paint Over Wallpaper: Step by Step Process
Step 1: Clean the Wallpaper Surface
Dust and dirt prevent the primer from sticking. Wipe down all walls with a barely damp cloth. Don’t soak the wallpaper. Excess water weakens the adhesive underneath and causes bubbling.
For kitchen walls with grease buildup, use a diluted TSP solution. Mix according to package directions. Wring out your sponge well. You want it damp, not dripping.
Let the walls dry completely. Wait at least 24 hours. Touch the wall to confirm it’s dry before moving forward.
Step 2: Repair Damaged Areas
Inspect every seam and edge. Look for peeling corners, lifted edges, or small tears.
For loose seams, lift the edge gently with a putty knife. Apply wallpaper seam adhesive underneath. Press the paper flat. Wipe away excess glue. Let it dry overnight.
For tears or holes, you have two options. Cut away the damaged section with a putty knife. Fill the gap with spackle. Let it dry, then sand smooth. Or, if the damage is minor, apply spackle directly over the tear and sand when dry.
Sand any bumps or ridges that might show through paint. Use 150-180 grit sandpaper. Don’t sand aggressively. You’re smoothing, not removing.
Wipe away sanding dust with a slightly damp cloth.
Step 3: Protect Trim and Floors
Apply painters tape along baseboards, crown molding, door frames, and window trim. Press the tape firmly to prevent paint bleed.
Lay drop cloths over floors and furniture. Oil-based primer is harder to clean than latex paint. Protect everything.
Step 4: Prime with Oil-Based Primer
This step determines your success. Use only oil-based primer over wallpaper. Water-based primer soaks into the paper and reactivates the glue. This causes peeling and bubbling.
Why oil-based? It seals the wallpaper and old adhesive. It creates a barrier between the wallpaper and your topcoat. It prevents paint failure down the road.
For dark wallpaper or bold patterns, use gray-tinted primer. White primer requires more topcoats to hide dark colors underneath.
Open windows and turn on fans. Oil-based primer fumes irritate your lungs. Wear an N95 mask for protection.
Cut in first. Use your 2-inch angled brush for corners, edges, and trim lines. Then roll the large wall sections.
Apply primer in a W-shape pattern with your roller. Crisscross to fill gaps. Don’t roll straight up and down. This creates visible lines when paint builds up on the roller.
Let the primer dry completely. Follow the manufacturer’s directions. Most oil-based primers need 24 hours.
Step 5: Apply Your Topcoat
Once the primer is dry, you can use latex or oil-based paint. Most people choose latex for easier cleanup and lower fumes.
Avoid high-gloss finishes like satin or gloss. These highlight every imperfection in the wall surface. Stick with matte or eggshell finishes.
Lighter paint colors hide wallpaper better than dark shades. If you want a dark color, expect to apply three coats instead of two.
Cut in with your brush first. Then roll the walls using the same W-shape pattern.
Let the first coat dry according to the paint can directions. Usually 2-4 hours for latex paint.
Apply a second coat. Two coats are standard for painting over wallpaper. Dark patterns or colors may need a third coat.
Step 6: Clean Your Tools
Oil-based primer requires mineral spirits or paint thinner for cleanup. Don’t use water. It won’t work.
Pour mineral spirits into a container. Swirl your brushes in it. Wipe them on a rag. Repeat until the brush runs clean.
Let brushes air dry. Store them separately from your water-based paint brushes.
Latex paint cleans up with soap and water.
Project Timeline
- Day 1: Clean walls and let them dry (2 hours work, 24 hours drying)
- Day 2: Repair damage, tape trim, apply oil-based primer (4-5 hours work, 24 hours drying)
- Day 3: First topcoat (2-3 hours work, 2-4 hours drying)
- Day 4: Second topcoat and cleanup (2-3 hours work)
- Total time: 4 days start to finish, with about 10-13 hours of active work.
Pros and Cons of Painting Over Wallpaper
Pros:
- Cost savings. Professional wallpaper removal costs $500-$2,000 for a bedroom. DIY painting over wallpaper costs $50-$150 in supplies. That’s significant savings.
- Time efficiency. Wallpaper removal takes 1-2 full days of scraping, steaming, and cleaning adhesive residue. Painting over it takes 4 days total, but only 10-13 hours of actual work.
- Prevents wall damage. Removing wallpaper from unfinished drywall or old plaster often tears the wall surface. This requires additional repair work and expense.
- DIY friendly. Most homeowners can paint over wallpaper successfully. You don’t need special skills or expensive tools.
Cons:
- Seams may show. Even premium paint won’t completely hide wallpaper seams. You might see faint lines where the paper joins.
- Future removal is harder. If you later decide to remove the wallpaper, you’ll need to strip paint first. This doubles the work.
- Not suitable for all wallpaper types. Vinyl, textured, and high-gloss wallpaper don’t paint well. You’re limited in which surfaces work.
- Pattern bleed-through. Dark or bold patterns sometimes show through multiple paint coats. Gray-tinted primer helps but doesn’t guarantee complete coverage.
- Texture remains visible. If your wallpaper has any texture, it shows through paint. You won’t get flat, smooth walls.
Cost Comparison: Paint vs. Remove
Painting over wallpaper (DIY):
- Oil-based primer: $25-$40
- Gray-tinted primer (if needed): $30-$45
- Paint (2 gallons): $50-$80
- Supplies (tape, rollers, brushes): $20-$30
- Total: $95-$195
Professional wallpaper removal:
- Average bedroom: $500-$800
- Large living room: $800-$1,500
- Whole house: $1,500-$4,000
DIY wallpaper removal:
- Steamer rental: $40-$60/day
- Adhesive remover: $15-$25
- Scraping tools: $10-$20
- Wall repair supplies: $30-$50
- Paint after removal: $70-$110
- Total: $165-$265
Painting over wallpaper saves money if the paper is in good condition. Removal makes sense for damaged or incompatible wallpaper types.
Room-Specific Considerations
- Bathrooms: High moisture makes painting over wallpaper risky. Steam from showers can loosen adhesive over time. If you must paint bathroom wallpaper, use a moisture-resistant primer and paint. Check seams regularly for lifting.
- Kitchens: Grease and cooking residue require thorough TSP cleaning before priming. Kitchen wallpaper often has a washable vinyl coating. Test a corner before committing to paint it.
- Bedrooms and living rooms: These are ideal for painting on top of wallpaper. Low moisture and minimal wall contact make success more likely.
- Rental properties: Check your lease before painting wallpaper. Some landlords prohibit alterations. If allowed, painting over wallpaper is more reversible than removal.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- Bubbles appear after priming: You used water-based primer instead of oil-based, or the adhesive was already weak. Pop the bubbles with a pin. Let them dry. Sand smooth and re-prime with oil-based primer.
- Seams are very visible: Apply a second coat of gray-tinted primer before your topcoat. Or, skim coat the seams with joint compound. Sand smooth when dry.
- Paint is peeling: The wallpaper adhesive is failing. You’ll need to remove the painted wallpaper and start over on bare walls.
- Pattern shows through: Add another coat of gray-tinted primer. Dark patterns sometimes need two primer coats plus two topcoats.
- Texture bothers you: Sand the entire wall with 150-grit sandpaper. This is labor-intensive but smooths most textures. Use a palm sander for easier work.
When to Hire a Professional
Call a pro if you see:
- Wallpaper covering more than one room
- Extensive water damage or mold
- Multiple layers of wallpaper (common in old houses)
- Valuable or delicate wall surfaces underneath
- Limited time to complete the project
Professional painters charge $200-$500 per room to paint over wallpaper. They handle prep work, use commercial-grade primers, and guarantee results. For large projects, their efficiency justifies the cost.
Our Conclusion
In summary, Can You Paint Over Wallpaper? Yes, you can, but it’s important to assess the condition of the wallpaper first. If it’s smooth, undamaged, and securely attached, painting over it can be a simple and effective way to update your space. However, if your wallpaper is damaged or textured, removal might be a better option.
If you’re unsure or need professional assistance, San Diego Custom Painting offers expert interior painting services in San Diego to help you achieve the perfect finish for your walls. Whether you’re painting over wallpaper or tackling another home improvement project, we can provide the expertise and quality you need.
FAQs About Painting Over Wallpaper
Can I use water-based primer over wallpaper?
No. Water-based primer soaks into wallpaper and reactivates the adhesive. This causes bubbling and peeling. Always use oil-based primer as your first coat.
Will wallpaper seams show through paint?
Usually yes, at least slightly. Even premium paint shows faint seam lines. Skim coating the seams before priming minimizes this. Gray-tinted primer also helps hide seams better than white.
How many coats of paint do I need over wallpaper?
Plan for one coat of oil-based primer plus two coats of paint. Dark wallpaper patterns may need an extra primer coat or third paint coat for full coverage.
Can you paint over vinyl wallpaper?
It’s not recommended. Vinyl has a plastic coating that repels paint. If you must try, use an oil-based bonding primer designed for slick surfaces. Success isn’t guaranteed.
What happens if I skip the primer?
Paint won’t adhere properly. You’ll see peeling, especially at seams and edges. The wallpaper pattern bleeds through more easily. Primer is not optional for this project.
Is painting over wallpaper a permanent solution?
It can last for years if done correctly. However, painted wallpaper is harder to remove later. You’re committing to paint for the long term.
Can I paint textured wallpaper smoothly?
No. Paint follows the surface underneath. Texture remains visible. You must sand the wallpaper smooth or remove it entirely for flat walls.
What’s the best paint finish for painted wallpaper?
Matte or eggshell finishes hide imperfections best. Avoid satin and gloss. They highlight every bump and seam in the wall surface.
How long does oil-based primer take to dry?
Most oil-based primers need 24 hours to fully cure. You can recoat some products in 8 hours, but waiting a full day gives better results.
Should I sand wallpaper before painting?
Only if it has texture you want to eliminate or rough spots that need smoothing. Most smooth wallpaper doesn’t require sanding. Just clean and prime.
