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Is it advisable to paint over wallpaper?

Yes, go ahead and paint over it
9%
No, remove the wallpaper first.
87%
Not sure
3%
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Question: Is it advisable to paint over wallpaper?
Top Answer (87% of 528 votes): No, remove the wallpaper first..

Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: If you paint over it, there's a great chance that it may peel or bubble causing deformities in your paint.
Alionce handy pros
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Painting over wallpaper is generally not recommended because most wallpapers are not designed to be painted. The paint may not adhere properly, can cause bubbling or peeling, and any existing seams or imperfections will show through. Removing the wallpaper first ensures a smooth, long-lasting finish and allows the paint to adhere correctly to the wall surface.
Painting Company Hernandez
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Painting over wallpaper may seem like a great shortcut, until the wallpaper absorbs the moisture from the paint and begins bubbling underneath. Removing the painted wallpaper becomes even more problematic, since the standard way to remove wallpaper involves scoring and steaming to loosen the glue between the wallpaper and drywall or plaster. Once the wallpaper is painted it must be scraped off, then scored and steamed, often multiple times in order to remove all remaining paper. Removing wallpaper before painting is a much easier process, leaving a smooth surface for paint adherence and ensuring a beautiful, clean finish.
Clean Cut Painting, LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: You can paint over wallpaper, but only after applying proper primer to seal it, maybe a skim coat to fix imperfections
Scad Painting & Preservation inc
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: While it might seem like a time-saver to paint directly over wallpaper, it's almost always a better idea to remove it first for several crucial reasons. Investing the time in wallpaper removal will save you headaches, effort, and potentially more money in the long run. Here's why you should remove wallpaper before painting: * Moisture Reactivation of Adhesive: This is the biggest reason. Most wallpaper adhesives are water-soluble. When you apply water-based paint (like most latex paints) over wallpaper, the moisture in the paint can reactivate the old glue. This leads to: * Bubbling: As the adhesive gets wet, the wallpaper can loosen and form unsightly bubbles. * Peeling: Sections or even entire strips of wallpaper can peel away from the wall. * Wrinkling/Tearing: The wallpaper can wrinkle or tear as it absorbs moisture and expands, then shrinks as it dries. These issues will be visible through your new paint job, ruining its appearance.
HITTMAN handyman services L.L.C.
Answer: Not sure
Explanation: you can but you want to test a small area behind furniture etc and see what happens. clean it, lightly scuff it, wipe clean and prime 1-2 coats let dry apply paint use a specialized made to go over things like that and is anti scuff for the primer and paint. If it doesn't start to separate or bubble, curl after a few days you're good. always consult with your local paint supplier for more recommendations are. New products and processes are coming out all the time. This process has worked many times in the past for me but every job is different. I have just removed it all and textured the walls as needed and then prime then paint.
Home Pros
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Paint may not adhere well to wallpaper, especially if it has a glossy, vinyl, or textured finish. Over time, the paint can peel, crack, or bubble—especially in humid or high-traffic areas. Seams and Texture Will Show. The seams of the wallpaper and any patterns or textures will likely show through the paint, creating an uneven, unprofessional finish. Even multiple coats of paint usually can’t fully hide these imperfections. Wallpaper traps moisture underneath. When painted over, this trapped moisture can lead to mold, mildew, or wall damage over time—especially in bathrooms, kitchens, or poorly ventilated spaces.
Birth of Aurora Designs LLC
Answer: Yes, go ahead and paint over it
Explanation: Yes, it is possible to paint over wallpaper, but it's not always advisable. Here are some key considerations: When It's Advisable: Wallpaper in Good Condition: If the wallpaper is smooth, firmly adhered, and free of rips, tears, or bubbles Cost and Time: If removing the wallpaper is too costly or time-consuming, painting over it can be a practical alternative. Wall Damage: If removing the wallpaper might damage the walls, painting over it can be a safer option. When It's Not Advisable: Textured Wallpaper: Paint won't effectively cover textured wallpaper, leading to an uneven finish. Damaged Wallpaper: If the wallpaper is peeling or damaged, these imperfections will show through the paint. Multiple Layers: If there are multiple layers of wallpaper, removing it might be necessary for a smooth finish
Boost Your Services
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: The paint will just peel off...
Mumme Construction
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Painting over wallpaper might seem like a quick and easy solution, but it often leads to long-term issues. Here’s why it’s not a good idea: 1. Adhesion Problems – Wallpaper isn’t designed to hold paint, so the paint may not adhere properly. This can lead to bubbling, peeling, or an uneven finish. 2. Visible Seams and Texture – The seams of the wallpaper will likely show through the paint, and any texture or pattern may still be visible, making the final result look unpolished. 3. Moisture Damage – Paint can loosen the wallpaper adhesive, especially if water-based paint is used. This can cause the wallpaper to peel, creating an even bigger mess. 4. Difficult Future Removal – If you paint over wallpaper and later decide to remove it, the paint can make it much harder to strip the wallpaper without damaging the drywall underneath. 5. Trapped Damage – If the wallpaper is already old, loose, or damaged, painting over it won’t fix the underlying issues. It may actually make imperfections more noticeable. What to Do Instead? The best approach is to remove the wallpaper completely before painting. This ensures a smooth, long-lasting finish. If removal isn’t an option, applying an oil-based primer over the wallpaper before painting can help reduce some of the risks. However, removal is always the best choice for a professional-looking result.
Beautiful Spaces
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Removing the wallpaper is almost always the best and only option. It is possible to paint over wallpaper if you prime it with an oil-based paint or a shellac. Then you could paint and mud over the seams and have a smooth surface that looks like level 5 drywall. If you remove you still prime and patch imperfections before paint.
Clean Cut Renovations
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Moisture from paint may cause wall paper to bubble up and lead to more problems down the line.
Quality Coat Painting
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Usually old wallpaper "bubbles" and comes loose in spots. When adding moisture the wallpaper can bubble or deteriorate even more. One way is to prime sealer over the top. Remove & Refinish Wall Surface: I advise to have wallpaper steamed off, then scrape walls, patch and fill as needed. Maybe ReTexture. Then add finish paint.
1st Choice Services
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Always remove the wallpaper first otherwise the paint won’t stay on won’t lay right it’ll just slide
PLATINUM PAINTING
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: I would advise to remove the wallpaper before painting mainly because wallpaper isn't really meant to be painted over and seams can be seen even if painted over. But if you're looking for a cost friendly solution you can paint over it using a bonding primer to be safe. The bonding primer will help the finish paint stick to the wallpaper, I'd suggest oil based bonding primer as well.
Keith's Color's Painting LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Even the best of pros with the best of paint will be unable to completely cover the seams and texture of the wallpaper, often leading to unsatisfactory results and dissatisfied customers.
McConnal Painting
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: It really depends on the wallpaper, paint and condition of the walls. Short answer is for walls to be at the highest level they need to plastered and repainted.
NYC Interior Design ®
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: We always take down wallpaper then use guards to seal it. Then skim coat. And paint
Aplus reglazing llc
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: It is always recommended to remove the wallpaper first because when you paint over wallpaper it tends to bubble and peel off
Carolina home painter
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: It can seem like an easy budget friendly option. However paint is not designed to stick to wallpaper. Removing wallpaper is not that bad of a job. hire a pro and get the wallpaper removed.
A+ Painting
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Always remove the wallpaper before u start painting because it won't look as good if u just painted over the wallpaper
Srp inc.
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Wallpaper will eventually start to peel away from the wall so it is best to remove it and any glue left behind then use a high quality primer and paint for best results
S & L Paint Professionals
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Wallpaper may bubble on walls due to the humidity in the paint.
kingdom Painting and Drywall Services llc
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: It is not advisable to paint over wallpaper. Wall paper is not meant to be painted. It will cause the wall paper to lift peel, also you will see the whole outline of the paper and the seams. Wall paper needs to be removed with an etching tool and a solution to help loosen the glue. After wall paper is removed you need to prime over it and retexture it. It's normal to damage the Sheetrock from removing the wall paper so texturing is the best way to fix the surface.
Greg Griffin Painting
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: If the wallpaper isn't removed, you will possibly see the seam.
She Paints Cabinets LLC
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Painting over wallpaper is generally not advisable for several reasons: Adhesion Issues: Wallpaper is often non-porous or has a smooth surface, which can make it difficult for paint to adhere properly. This can lead to peeling, bubbling, or cracking of the paint over time. Uneven Surface: Wallpaper seams, textures, and patterns can show through the paint, resulting in an uneven finish. This can be particularly noticeable with textured or embossed wallpapers. Moisture Trapping: Painting over wallpaper can trap moisture between the wallpaper and paint layers, leading to mold and mildew growth over time. Removal Difficulty: If you decide to remove the wallpaper in the future, painting over it can make the removal process more challenging and time-consuming. The paint can seal the wallpaper to the wall, making it harder to strip off cleanly. Overall, it's usually best to remove wallpaper before painting to ensure a smooth and durable finish. If removal is not feasible, proper surface preparation, such as priming with a high-quality primer designed for covering wallpaper, may help improve paint adhesion. However, even with proper preparation, painting over wallpaper is still not ideal and may not result in a satisfactory outcome in the long run.
DJ CONSTRUCTION SERVICES OF NEW YORK, LLC
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: The paint will not adhere to the wall and can cause bubbling in the paper
Ridgway Construction LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: It can be done but I would advise to take the wallpaper off tears and chips will be visible
Number one choice LLC
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: It is typically a good idea to remove old wall paper before picking up any paint, if you want to paint properly
Busy Hands construction & restoration LLC
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: When painting a surface you need a clean wall. Wallpaper when painted peels and falls off the wall.
Southern Tek Handyman
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: There are ways to do it without removing it but if you decide to paint over it you may have problems.Better to remove it or glidwall it.
Nky Paint
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: We always recommend removing due to possible future issues with possibly activating the adhesive used under the wallpaper. At the same type it’s a perfect time to update the look with some texture to give a more modern look.
Fresco Painting and More
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: It's will bubble up the paint cannot adhere ti the wallpaper correctly it will cause many issues down the road for t both painters and customers
Paint choice llc
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: In some cases the painted wallpaper in time will lift up in places
Fresh Start Painting
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: The proper way.
Dalton's Home Servicse
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: If it all possible remove the wallpaper, I know sometimes it can’t be removed. Then you have to do a whole lot of sheet rock putty. But if you just paint over it, there’s a possibility the paper can come loose from wall and curl up on edges.
Kens Painting Service
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: removing wallpaper before you paint will give a more long lasting result compare to leaving it on
soto brothers on demand
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Wallpaper may be a pain in the rear end but yes it can be painted over only if it is prepped properly
Dee Howell
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: For proper bonding and adhesion ots advised to completely remove wallpaper and prime surface and sand before final coats
Cox's Coating's
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: If you can remove the wallpaper first it will save on time and money in the future!
Jackson's Paints & Interiors
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Painting over wallpaper is possible, but it may not always be the best solution. Whether it's advisable or not depends on several factors, including the condition of the wallpaper, your goals, and the type of wallpaper you have.
Best Way Painting
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Wall paper will almost always bubble up when painted if not at the moment you are painting over it within a short time it will and then you will have to peel it off and ended up waisting time and money
Epic ceilings and painting
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: It's better to remove the wallcovering and apply the paint on the wall surface instead of on top of wallpaper or vinyl
Floyd Painting Drywall & Plastering LLC
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: We want to complete the job successfully so we advise to remove it.
Painters Professionals Perfectionists
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: You can paint over wallpaper but it must be prepared correctly first to hide any flaws and keep any air bubbles from forming. But taking the extra time to remove wallpaper prior to painting will always be the better option.
Giddurdunn LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: You have to remove all wallpaper before Painting cause the wet paint will bubble the wallpaper
JSD Drywall & Paint
Answer: Yes, go ahead and paint over it
Explanation: You can paint over wall paper...but you got to know what you doing...best thing to do is to hire a professional
Skylight painting LLC
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: The paint may adhere to the wallpaper for a short time but eventually it will start to peel off from under the paint.
Happy Handyman LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Wallpaper is put on with a water base glue. Therefore if you paint it with a water base paint then it will bubble and possibly come off after painting. I do however remove wallpaper as well.
Seltenright Solutions
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Not a good idea you need to remove it first
Paint choice llc
Answer: Not sure
Explanation: Depends on circumstances and wall size
Koast painting
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Wall papers seams may bubble and peel. Not always but have to be on look out for it cause it may happen
RT painting
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: It can bubble if not stripped and wash paste off walls
Tastefully Done
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: We have to remove the wallpaper to make a look paint professional.
Brothers Canelas Painting LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Wallpaper should be removed for proper adhesion and uniform finish.
chris mcgoldrick painting
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: The paint will last longer and wont mold over time weight and moistier from paint will wrinkle in spots
Zipnonby painting & home services
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: If you tried to paint over wallpaper their design on it will bleed through the paint it's a lot easier just go ahead and remove the wallpaper and do it the right way
Southern Handyman Services & More
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Because as the wallpaper becomes saturated it begins to peel away and therefore your paint would peel with it
New Horizon Construction and Remodeling LLC
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Best appearance always retain the base structure of the wall to begin with.
LKT TimeSavers
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: No ...we always remove wallpaper ,skim coat and texture before repaint .in certain cases we will drywall over the top and start with new sheetrock to achieve optimal finish .
All walls custom paint and coatings
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: It will peal and bubble
K&M Enterprise
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: You can paint over wallpaper but only if you can't remove it that's because to paint over it you have to cut out all loose paper then you have patch (usually it takes 2 or 3 coats) where you cut out and all seems then caulk top and bottom of paper then you prime then paint.
Ken's painting service
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Best to remove. BUT! New products out there today that allow's us to seal it, skim coat the seams, prime and paint. We do this a lot and we remove it a lot, but never any call backs.
Stringers Property Maintenance LLC
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Wallpaper sometimes peels when moisture is applied, better to remove clean glue and patch to start fresh
Peoples Painting
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: you'll receive better results and fewer problems down the road if you properly prep the walls prior to painting.
Gherkin Custom Cabinets & Remodel
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Remove Wallpaper, Skim areas needed with mud.Sand prime and paint.
Purdy Painting Inc
ProMatcher
Answer: Yes, go ahead and paint over it
Explanation: Wallpaper can be painted over, but first an oil based primer should be applied. This step will "lock" the wallpaper to the drywall and seal out any glue or stains that may try to bleed thru traditional latex wall paint.
Brian Winget Painting
Answer: Not sure
Explanation: Depends on color texture age and damage. Also depends on paints color the sheen the brand how many coats will be applied
Central Mississippi Paint and Finishes
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Wallpaper can be painted over if certain precautions and prep is done first. Safer to remove wallpaper, prime then paint.
1800propainter
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: You dont paint over wall paper there can be minor holes or scratches that can’t be seen and the paint will penatrate quickly and create bubbles behind the wall paper.. My advise is remove the wallpaper prior to painting.
Drywall trim and paint
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: Eventually wallpaper will peel off with humidity and moisture so it's always good to start with a fresh surface
Planet perfect painting maintenance and repair
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: All wallpaper has to be removed You can not paint over wallpaper.
BALTIMORECOATING@GMAIL.COM
ProMatcher
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: No
Empire Painting Service
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: For a Clean professional look, it is a must to clean and prepare the wall surface
AJ Garcia Painting
Answer: No, remove the wallpaper first.
Explanation: You want a clean look. Wall paper will bubble and peel.
Grand View Painting
ProMatcher
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