how to paint over wallpaper successfully

Painting over wallpaper can feel like a daunting task when you’re new to it; especially when you might’ve already seen the botched attempts made by previous tenants or owners. When done right, though, it’s a simple yet effective way to refresh your interiors. What to do..? In our minds, there’s only one thing for it: paint!

So whether you’re trying to avoid the hassle of stripping away adequately applied wallpaper or you just fancy a quick and easy update, here’s how to get it done like a pro. It’s time to grab your paintbrush – or perhaps, at this stage, a cuppa – while we let you in on all the trade secrets that will get you a nice uniform surface.

to strip or not to strip – that is the question

It’s fair to say there was a time when Britain was simply obsessed with wallpaper; in fact, this has been true for a long time – since the 19^th century to be precise. Now, if you’re thinking what we’re thinking, you’ve probably conjured up an image of gaudy Victorian patterns of foliage and feathers. After all, there’s a certain era of decorating, you’ll encounter if you move into an older home. Which is exactly why many homeowners want to cover up the stuff with their own predilection for colour and style.

But what is the best way to do the job? Here, we’re presented with a fork in the road:

1. You could suck it up and keep the wallpaper and change the décor to complement it
2. You could paint over the existing wallpaper
3. You could strip it from the walls and replace it with new wallpaper or a flattering paint

Each of these choices poses its own challenges and, depending on a whole slew of factors, it might be a lot of work. Not to worry, though, we’re about to divulge all the technical stuff, including how to know when painting over your wallpaper is a viable option. Let’s get into it.

what paint should you use to paint over wallpaper?

When it comes to finding the right paint to paint over your wallpaper, you need something that will adhere smoothly. The best choice? A high-quality water-based paint. But here’s the twist –don’t just pick up any random can of paint from the shelf. For the best results, go for a more eco-friendly brand that formulate their products with care so they’re designed to last longer, with better coverage and fewer harmful chemicals. This way, you don’t have to choose between a beautiful wall and a cleaner planet.

When selecting a paint, look for one that’s suited to your space, whether it’s a living room, bedroom or kitchen. For example, if your wallpaper is in a humid environment like a bathroom, opt for a paint that’s a bit more moisture-resistant.

is it possible to paint over wallpaper?

Before you even get as far as moodboarding the colours for your new DIY project, you might be wondering: can I actually paint over wallpaper? The good news is, yes, you can absolutely cover over wallpaper with a lick of paint, whether it’s in a completely unblemished state or, indeed, covered in someone else’s favourite shade. But, and it’s a big but, there’s a bunch of things you really ought to consider beforehand.

early considerations determining the direction of your project

As you would with any other DIY job, the first step lies in assessing your surface, so carefully inspect the condition of your wallpaper. If it’s peeling, lifting or damaged in any way, you’re better off removing it in favour of a clean canvas (AKA the plaster beneath, once you’ve adequately prepped it). Giving a lick of paint to wallpaper that’s patchy at best can lead to a less-than-ideal finish and might even cause further hassle down the line.

But if your wallpaper is in decent shape – firmly attached to the wall, with minimal visible seams and no major damage – then you’re in the clear to move forward. It’s also worth noting that smooth, non-textured wallpaper is easier to paint over than highly textured types.

a 4-step mini guide: how to paint over wallpaper

Now that we’ve got the prep and paint selection down, let’s walk through the step-by-step process for painting over wallpaper. Don’t worry – it’s a great project for experienced DIYers and newbies alike!

step 1 – prepare the wallpaper surface

Preparation is key when painting over wallpaper. Start by thoroughly cleaning the surface to remove any dust, dirt or grease – a wet sponge and some soapy water will do here. This will help your paint adhere properly and create a smooth finish.

Next, inspect the wallpaper for any holes, seams or bubbles. Use a thin bit of filler to patch up any small imperfections and make sure to press down any loose seams with a wallpaper adhesive. Our recommendation is Zinsser Gardz. If the wallpaper is glossy or has a heavy texture, give it a light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper to help the paint stick better. The goal is a smooth, even surface for your paint to cling to.

step 2 – prime the wallpaper

Priming your wallpaper is a crucial step that shouldn’t be skipped unless you’ve selected a self-priming paint that does a 2-in-1 job.  A good primer will ensure the paint adheres well and helps with sealing the wallpaper, preventing it from absorbing too much paint. Once your primer is on, allow it to dry fully before moving to the next step.

step 3 – painting over the wallpaper

Now, the fun part: painting over the wallpaper! Start by cutting in along the edges with a paintbrush, making sure to get into the corners and around light switches or trim. When you’ve done the edges, it’s time to grab your roller and go to town on the larger areas.

It’s best to apply thin layers of paint, working in the same direction. This not only ensures a smoother finish but also helps prevent drips and streaks. Depending on the wallpaper and the paint, you might need more than two coats. Be patient and let each layer dry completely before applying the next one.

step 4 – finishing touches

Once the second coat has dried, step back and take a look. Do any seams or edges need touching up? Use a small brush to carefully go over any areas that need a little extra attention. If you’re painting over wallpaper that has textured patterns or seams, this will help you get a flawless finish.

best practices when painting over wallpaper

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s talk best practices to ensure your paint job lasts and looks great.

• Use high-quality paint: Don’t skimp on the paint. High-quality paints provide better coverage and durability, so you’ll spend less time fixing mistakes and more time enjoying your newly painted walls.
• Be patient with drying times: It’s tempting to rush, but patience is key! Allow each coat of paint and primer to dry completely before applying the next.
• Test a small area first: Every wallpaper is different, so pop on a test patch before committing to the whole wall. This helps you check how the paint reacts and whether you need to adjust anything.
• Cutting in for clean edges: Cutting in around corners and edges is the secret to a professional-looking finish. Don’t forget to check out our blog on cutting in paint for tips on how to get crisp, straight lines.

over wallpaper?

Knowing how much paint you need is crucial for avoiding waste (and last-minute trips to the store). On average, a high-quality paint can cover around 35 square meters per 2.5 litres with two coats, so calculate how many square meters of wall you have before heading to the shop.

Pro tip: If you’re painting over a dark or patterned wallpaper, you might need more coats for full coverage, so always err on the side of buying a little extra.

hiring a professional decorator or doing it yourself?

If the thought of painting over wallpaper seems overwhelming, you might be wondering whether it’s worth hiring a professional. Well, it depends! DIY can save you money, but if you’re unsure about the process or don’t have the time, hiring a pro might be the right choice.

In the UK, decorator day rates generally range around £325 per day, depending on your area and the decorator’s experience. If you’re looking to keep costs down but still want a polished look, consider a consultation to see if the job is manageable yourself.

faqs about painting over wallpaper

what about previously painted wallpaper?

So can you paint over painted wallpaper? Generally, yes, but it requires some extra graft. One important thing to note is that painted wallpaper can be both more difficult to remove and paint over – particularly if you’re painting a water-based formula over and oil based one.

To remove painted-over paper you’ll have to score the hell out of it before proceeding as normal with the removal process, using the right products. We recommend checking out Zinsser’s wallpaper remover.

can I paint over wallpaper if it’s peeling?

If your wallpaper is peeling or damaged, it’s a good idea to remove it first. Painting over peeling wallpaper can lead to an uneven finish and make the peeling worse.

how do I avoid paint peeling off wallpaper?

Ensure the wallpaper is well-prepared, primed, and the paint is applied in thin, even layers. Make sure to use quality paint and primer that bonds well to the wallpaper.

what if the wallpaper is textured?

Textured wallpaper can be tricky, but it’s definitely possible to paint over it. Just make sure to prep the surface well—sand if necessary, and use a thicker, high-quality paint to fill in the texture.

can I use any paint on vinyl wallpaper?

Vinyl wallpaper requires a special approach due it’s non-porous qualities, so we suggest using a high-bonding primer and a durable, high-quality paint to ensure it sticks properly.

got the hang of it?

Nice one, you got to the end of our ultimate guide to painting over wallpaper! You better believe you now have the skills to execute the task at hand with finesse. With the right prep, tools and (hint-hint nudge nudge) eco-conscious paints, you can overhaul your interiors without the pain in the ass of stripping the wallpaper.

At splat, we’ve got all the products and tips you need to strike a chord with your new project, plus the added satisfaction that you’re doing your bit for the planet. Ready to get started? Browse our range of sustainable paints and tools, and let’s make your home a bit of you!

Keen for more practical advice? Then head over to the main page of our blog – there’s always more to learn!