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Every home has its unique charm, but sometimes, those quirks can feel more like burdens. Take wallpaper—especially the kind that has seen better days. It can be a real conundrum. Do you live with it, or do you take the plunge and remove it? And what if you just want a quick fix? Painting over wallpaper might seem like an easy way out, but it’s not as straightforward as it sounds. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of this popular dilemma and explore the options.
Understanding the challenges of painting over wallpaper
So, what’s the deal with painting over wallpaper? On the surface, it appears to be a time-saving hack for those with outdated decor, but there’s a catch. According to Jessica Pleasants, a general contractor at Godwin Residential Construction, this approach isn’t exactly recommended. “It’s not a best practice,” she states, emphasizing that the ideal route is to remove the wallpaper before applying a fresh coat of paint. But why? Well, if you’re looking for a long-lasting finish, the existing wallpaper can compromise that goal.
When you paint over wallpaper, you’re essentially adding another layer to your walls, which can lead to complications down the line. I remember when I tried to spruce up my friend’s living room with a quick paint job over her floral wallpaper. It looked decent at first, but soon enough, the seams started peeking through, and it was a nightmare to try and fix later. Paint can seal in imperfections, making future removal a bit of a Herculean task.
What to consider before you paint
Before you even think about rolling that paintbrush, take a good look at the state of your wallpaper. If it has texture—like those funky grasscloth or jacquard patterns—you can expect those details to show through the paint. And let me tell you, nothing ruins a fresh coat of paint faster than an old wallpaper texture making a surprise appearance.
Have you ever seen a wall that looks like it’s wearing a bad outfit? Yeah, that’s what can happen here. If your wallpaper is peeling or damaged, painting over it won’t fix those issues. Instead, it’s like putting lipstick on a pig (not that I’m calling your wallpaper a pig!). You might get a temporary aesthetic boost, but the underlying problems remain.
Steps to paint over wallpaper if you must
If you’re determined to paint over that wallpaper—perhaps because you’re renting or in a time crunch—let’s discuss how to do it right. First off, preparation is key. Just like any painting project, you need to start with a clean surface. Wipe down the walls with a good multi-purpose cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Personally, I’ve even gone as far as to mop the walls when they’ve been neglected for too long. Clean walls ensure better adhesion, which is crucial.
Next, assess any damage. You’ll want to cut away any peeling sections and sand down rough spots. You wouldn’t believe how much a little sanding can improve your wall’s appearance. It’s like giving your walls a spa day! After that, fill any holes or imperfections—think of it as a little wall makeup before the big event.
Priming your walls: the unsung hero
Now, here comes the critical part: priming. Investing in a good primer is essential. Jessica insists that this step is not optional; it’s your best friend when it comes to covering up old wallpaper patterns and colors. “The more time you spend on the prep, the better it will look,” she says. I can’t stress this enough—skip the primer, and you’re just asking for trouble down the line.
Depending on the design of your wallpaper, you might need two coats of primer. And while you’re waiting for it to dry, take a moment to inspect your walls again. This is your last chance to fix any texture issues before applying the final paint coat.
The painting process: tips for success
Finally, it’s time to paint! But don’t rush into it. Keep your focus on those seams and edges where the wallpaper meets the wall. I know it sounds tedious, but clean lines can make or break the overall look. A steady hand and a little patience can turn your project from “meh” to “wow!”
If you’ve made it this far and are still unsure, I get it. Sometimes, I wonder if it would just be easier to rip everything down and start fresh. And honestly, if you think you’ll want to remove that wallpaper later, it might be worth the effort to do it now rather than painting over it. Trust me, future you will thank you!
Final thoughts on wallpaper and paint
In the world of home decor, few things can spark as much debate as wallpaper. Whether you choose to paint over it or peel it off, the decision ultimately depends on your circumstances and how much work you’re willing to put in. Personally, I believe there’s something to be said for embracing the quirks of a historic home. But if you’re going to paint, make sure you do it right. After all, a beautifully painted wall can transform a room—but a poorly executed hack job? Not so much.