Painting over wallpaper can be a practical solution when you want to refresh your room without dealing with the hassle of removing the wallpaper.

However, not every type of paint works well for this purpose. It’s crucial to understand similar to wallpaper measurement, which paint provides the best results and how to prepare the surface for long-lasting adhesion.

In this guide, I’ll explain what kind of paint do you use to paint over wallpaper, how to prepare your wallpaper, and offer some expert tips to ensure a smooth and professional finish.

Can You Paint Over Wallpaper?

Yes, you can paint over wallpaper, and in many cases, it’s a practical choice. Removing wallpaper can be time-consuming and may even damage your walls if done incorrectly, so painting over it can save you effort while still giving your room a fresh new look.

Advantages of Painting Over Wallpaper

1. Saves Time: Instead of stripping wallpaper and then prepping the wall for paint, you can paint directly over it.
2. Preserves the Wall: Removing woodchip wallpaper often damages the underlying wall, requiring patching and repairs. Painting over it keeps the wall intact.
3. Smooth Transition: If done properly, painting over wallpaper can give your walls a smooth finish without visible seams or textures.

Types of Wallpaper You Can Paint Over

Not all wallpaper is suitable for painting. In general:

• Vinyl wallpaper can be tricky, as paint might not adhere well to its smooth, shiny surface. You’ll need a strong primer in this case.
• Paper-based wallpaper is the easiest to paint over, as it absorbs the primer and paint better.
• Textured wallpaper can add interesting effects when painted over, but you may need to sand down particularly rough textures.

What Kind of Paint Is Best For Painting Over Wallpaper?

Choosing the right type of paint is crucial when painting over wallpaper. The paint must adhere well to the surface, dry evenly, and provide the desired finish. Here are the three main types of paint you should consider:

1. Water-Based (Emulsion) Paint

Water-based paint, also known as emulsion, is a popular choice for painting over wallpaper. It dries quickly and has low levels of harmful fumes, making it a more environmentally friendly option.

• Pros: Dries quickly, easy to clean up, and has low odour.
• Cons: Might not be as durable or long-lasting as oil-based paints, especially on textured wallpaper.

Best for: Smooth or lightly textured wallpaper surfaces.

2. Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paint offers excellent durability and a smoother finish, making it an ideal choice for painting over textured or heavily patterned wallpaper.

It covers wallpaper well and tends to hold up better in areas with higher moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens.

• Pros: Provides excellent coverage and durability. Ideal for covering bold patterns or textures.
• Cons: Longer drying time and requires proper ventilation due to strong fumes.

Best for: Textured wallpaper or wallpaper with intricate patterns that need good coverage.

3. Latex Paint

Latex paint is another option that’s known for its flexibility and ease of application. It’s resistant to moisture and mildew, making it a great choice for rooms where humidity may be an issue.

• Pros: Quick drying, moisture-resistant, and flexible.
• Cons: May need a strong primer to ensure it adheres well to wallpaper.

Best for: Moisture-prone rooms like kitchens and bathrooms.

Do You Need Primer Before Painting Over Wallpaper?

Yes, applying a primer before painting over wallpaper is essential for ensuring that the paint adheres properly and that any patterns or textures underneath are less likely to show through.

The primer seals the wallpaper and provides a smooth, even surface for the paint to cling to.

Best Primers For Painting Over Wallpaper

1. Oil-Based Primers: These are particularly good for sealing wallpaper, especially vinyl wallpaper, as they create a strong bond between the wallpaper and the paint.
2. Shellac Primers: Known for their stain-blocking properties, shellac primers are great for covering patterns and preventing any bleed-through from the wallpaper beneath.
3. Multi-Surface Bonding Primers: These are designed to adhere to a wide variety of surfaces, making them a versatile choice for tricky wallpaper surfaces like vinyl or textured wallpaper.

Using the right primer not only ensures better paint adhesion but also helps prevent future peeling or bubbling.

How To Prepare Wallpaper Before Painting?

Preparation is key when painting over wallpaper or choosing wallpaper for living room. A well-prepared surface will ensure that your paint job looks professional and lasts for years to come. Here are the steps you need to take before picking up your paintbrush.

Clean The Wallpaper Surface

Dirt, dust, and grime can prevent the paint from adhering properly, so it’s crucial to clean the wallpaper before painting.

1. Dust the surface: Use a soft cloth or duster to remove any surface dust.
2. Wipe down the wallpaper: Use a solution of mild detergent and water to clean the wallpaper. For greasy areas (especially in kitchens), add a bit of vinegar to the mix.

Allow the wallpaper to dry completely further proceeding on to the next step.

Check For Damages or Loose Seams

Before painting, inspect the wallpaper for any damage or peeling.

1. Fix loose seams: If you notice the wallpaper peeling away at the edges, apply wallpaper adhesive to reseal the seams.
2. Patch small tears or holes: Use a wallpaper seam roller to smooth any loose edges, and patch up any small tears or hole in wall using filler or adhesive.

Sanding or Skimming Textured Wallpaper

If your wallpaper is heavily textured, you may want to sand down some of the rough spots to create a smoother surface for painting.

1. Lightly sand the wallpaper with fine-grit sandpaper to reduce the texture.
2. Skim coat: For extremely textured wallpaper, you might need to apply a thin skim coat of joint compound to even out the surface before painting.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Paint Over Wallpaper

Now that you’ve prepped the wallpaper, it’s time to start painting. Follow this step-by-step guide for the best results.

Step 1: Apply Primer

Using a primer is essential for ensuring that your paint adheres properly to the wallpaper and that the underlying pattern or texture doesn’t show through.

1. Choose the right primer based on the wallpaper type (oil-based or shellac primer is best for vinyl or heavily textured wallpaper).
2. Apply a thin, even coat of primer using a roller, and use a brush for edges and corners.
3. Let it dry completely before moving on to the next step, typically 24 hours depending on the primer used.

Step 2: First Coat of Paint

Once the primer has dried, you can begin painting.

1. Choose the right tools: Use a quality roller for large areas and a smaller brush for edges and corners.
2. Apply the first coat evenly: Start with a light, even coat, ensuring that the paint covers the wallpaper smoothly. Avoid using too much paint at once to prevent dripping.
3. Allow the first coat to dry: Wait at least 4-6 hours before applying the second coat, though drying times may vary depending on the paint type.

Step 3: Apply Second Coat

A second coat of paint ensures full coverage and a professional finish.

1. Apply a second, even coat: This coat will provide the depth of colour and evenness you need for a polished look.
2. Let it dry thoroughly: Again, follow the drying time instructions on your paint tin. Usually, the second coat can dry within 24 hours.

What Paint Finish Should You Choose?

The finish of your paint will influence how your walls look and how durable the paint is. Here’s a breakdown of the most common finishes you can choose from:

Matte Finish

A matte finish is great for hiding imperfections on the wallpaper, such as small bumps or seams. It gives a soft, non-reflective appearance.

• Best for: Hiding texture or seams, creating a calm, flat look.
• Not great for: High-traffic areas, as it’s less durable and harder to clean.

Satin or Eggshell Finish

These finishes offer a balance between a soft sheen and durability. Satin or eggshell finishes are easy to clean and work well for rooms where you want a bit of shine but not too much.

• Best for: Living rooms, hallways, and areas where you want a smooth finish with moderate shine.

Gloss Finish

For a striking, reflective finish, high-gloss paint is an option. It’s incredibly durable and easy to clean but can highlight imperfections in the wallpaper.

• Best for: Trim, doors, or accent walls where durability is essential.

How Long Does Painted Wallpaper Take To Dry?

Drying times for wallpaper which was painted will depend on the type of paint used:

• Water-based (emulsion) paint: Typically dries within 4-6 hours but requires up to 24 hours for a full cure.
• Oil-based paint: Can take up to 24 hours to dry and may require several days to fully cure.

To avoid issues like peeling or bubbling, ensure the room is well-ventilated, and avoid touching the walls until the paint is fully dry.

Conclusion

Painting over wallpaper is a great way to refresh your space without the hassle of removing wallpaper.

By choosing the right paint type, preparing the wallpaper surface, and following the proper steps on what kind of paint do you use to paint over wallpaper, you can achieve a smooth, professional finish.

Whether you opt for water-based, oil-based, or latex paint, remember to prime the wallpaper first and give it adequate time to dry for long-lasting results.

Table: Comparison of Water-Based, Oil-Based, and Latex Paints for Wallpaper

Paint Type	Drying Time	Best For	Pros	Cons
Water-Based	4-6 hours	Smooth, lightly textured wallpaper	Quick drying, low odour	Less durable for high-traffic areas
Oil-Based	24 hours	Textured or heavily patterned walls	Great coverage, durable	Longer drying time, strong fumes
Latex	4-6 hours	Moisture-prone areas	Flexible, moisture-resistant	May require strong primer for adhesion

FAQs On What Kind Of Paint Do You Use To Paint Over Wallpaper

1. Will the wallpaper pattern show through the paint?

If you properly prime the wallpaper before painting, the pattern should not show through. Using an oil-based or shellac primer is ideal for covering strong patterns.

2. Can I paint over textured wallpaper?

Yes, you can paint over textured wallpaper. However, depending on the texture, you may want to sand it down or apply a skim coat for a smoother finish.

3. How do I prevent bubbles when painting over wallpaper?

To prevent bubbles, ensure the wallpaper is properly adhered to the wall, apply a primer, and use even strokes when painting. Don’t overload the roller with paint.

4. Is it better to remove wallpaper before painting?

Removing wallpaper without steamer can provide a smoother, cleaner surface for painting. However, if the wallpaper is well-adhered and you follow the proper preparation steps, painting over it is a practical alternative.