Painting over wallpaper is a common way to update a room without the effort of stripping the walls. The key is proper preparation and using the right materials to ensure the paint adheres well and covers the pattern effectively.
Preparing the Walls for Painting
Before you start painting, thorough preparation is crucial when dealing with wallpaper. This step helps prevent issues like peeling or bubbling after painting.
Inspect and Repair Wallpaper
Walk around the room and carefully inspect the condition of the wallpaper. Look for:
- Loose Seams or Edges: Use wallpaper adhesive to re-glue any lifting seams or edges.
- Bubbles: Small bubbles might flatten when painted, but larger ones should be carefully slit with a utility knife and glued down.
- Damage: Patch any tears or holes in the wallpaper using spackling compound suitable for painted surfaces. Smooth it flush with the wallpaper surface.
Clean the Surface
Dust, grime, and grease can prevent primer and paint from sticking.
- Use a mild detergent solution and a sponge to gently clean the entire wall surface.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Allow the walls to dry completely before moving on.
Protect Surfaces
Use painter's tape and drop cloths to protect floors, furniture, windows, and trim.
The Priming Stage
This is perhaps the most critical step when painting over wallpaper, as it seals the surface and provides a base for the paint.
Choose the Right Primer
Based on recommendations for painting over wallpaper, you must choose an oil-based primer. Oil-based primers are excellent at sealing the wallpaper surface, preventing moisture from the paint from reactivating the wallpaper adhesive and causing bubbles.
Apply Primer
- Apply the oil-based primer evenly across all wallpapered surfaces.
- Ensure good ventilation due to the fumes from oil-based products.
- Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Painting the Walls
Once the primer is dry and the surface is properly sealed, you can apply your chosen paint color.
Tape Edges and Molding
As a practical tip to avoid a mess, cover edges and molding with painter's tape before you start painting the walls. This creates clean lines.
Apply Multiple Coats
To fully cover your wallpaper, especially if it has a pattern or dark color, it is recommended that you use two coats of paint or more. Allow adequate drying time between coats as per the paint manufacturer's instructions.
Allow Sufficient Drying Time
After applying the final coat, make sure you leave plenty of time for it to dry before moving back into the room. This allows the paint to cure properly, ensuring durability and preventing damage.
Summary of Steps and Materials
Here's a quick overview of the process and key materials:
| Step | Action | Key Material |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Inspect, repair, and clean wallpaper. | Wallpaper adhesive, Patching compound, Cleaner |
| Protection | Cover floors, furniture, windows, and trim. | Drop cloths, Painter's tape |
| Priming | Apply a sealing primer coat. | Oil-based primer |
| Taping | Protect trim before painting. | Painter's tape |
| Painting | Apply multiple paint coats. | Paint (2+ coats) |
| Drying & Curing | Allow paint to dry completely. | Time |
| Final Touches & Cleanup | Remove tape, clean up spills, move back in after sufficient drying time. | - |
Painting over wallpaper is a viable option if the wallpaper is in good condition. Proper preparation and the correct primer are the most critical steps for a successful outcome.
