Wallpaper Services

When painting over wallpaper, it’s best to use a high-quality oil-based or latex primer first, followed by a latex paint for the topcoat. The primer is crucial because it helps seal the wallpaper, preventing moisture from the paint from loosening the paper or causing bubbles. An oil-based primer is often recommended because it’s better at sealing in any stains or patterns from the wallpaper and creating a smooth surface for the paint.

After priming, you can use latex paint (either matte, satin, or semi-gloss, depending on your preference) to finish the job. Latex paint is easy to work with and dries quickly, making it a good choice for a fresh, even look.

Painting wallpaper successfully comes down to prep. Use a sponge and mild soap to gently clean the wallpaper and remove any dust, dirt, or grease. Let it dry completely before moving on. Then, check for any loose seams, tears, or bubbles. Use wallpaper adhesive to reattach any loose edges and smooth out bubbles. Let the adhesive dry completely before proceeding.

Next, you’ll want to lightly sand the wallpaper with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any texture or gloss. This step helps the primer adhere better. Use a high-quality oil-based or latex primer to seal the wallpaper. The primer helps prevent moisture from loosening the wallpaper and creates a smooth surface for the paint. Allow it to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions before moving on to actually painting your wallpaper.

While you can paint over wallpaper without obvious seams, you’ll be fighting an uphill battle. Start by cleaning the wallpaper and sanding the seams. Apply a thin layer of joint compound (spackle) over the seams, spreading it evenly with a putty knife. Feather out the edges so they blend into the surrounding wallpaper.

Let the compound dry fully, then lightly sand it smooth to create an even surface. Next, prime the surface and check for any obvious flaws before finishing with quality latex paint. Any flaws you don’t address during this prep will be visible on the finished product.

Paintable wallpaper or wall coverings can usually be repainted several times, but it depends on the thickness of the paint and the specific wallpaper product. It’s always best to consider the manufacturer’s specifications when purchasing paintable wallpaper products.