Looking to give your walls a fresh new look? Perhaps you’re thinking about incorporating new colors, or you’re tired of your current wallpaper, rest assured that
Paradise Painting Services is here to help.
If you’re contemplating whether to remove the existing wallpaper or
paint stripping over it, you’re in the right place. In this blog, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of each approach to help you make an informed decision.
Why Do People Paint Over Wallpaper?
Removing wallpaper can be a daunting task, sometimes requiring significant time and effort. Painting over wallpaper offers a quicker alternative, especially for those with busy schedules or limited resources. However, this approach may not always yield satisfactory results or be suitable for your walls.
Should You Paint Over Wallpaper?
If your wallpaper is in good condition—adhering firmly to the walls without peeling or sagging—painting straight over it could be a viable option, and would involve less work than stripping the wallpaper. It’s worth noting that the texture and seams of the wallpaper may still be visible after painting, and it’s over to you if you are happy with this finish.
Should You Strip Wallpaper Before Painting?
If the wallpaper is loose or peeling off, painting over it may deactivate the old glue and exacerbate the problem. Additionally, if the wallpaper is damaged with holes or dings, it will be difficult to repair the surface, because any filler applied and sanded will produce a different texture to the paper.
If the wallpaper has significant defects or is no longer adhering to the wall, it will require removal. Your walls will then require
plaster skimming to restore their finish – this will produce a premium finish ready to be painted over.
To assist in the process people often remove the wallpaper themselves, as sometimes there is a lot of work involved and this can help to reduce the price of the job
Conclusion: Is Painting Over Wallpaper a Good Idea?
In conclusion, whether to strip wallpaper or paint over it depends on the condition of your wallpaper and your desired outcome. While painting over wallpaper may offer a quicker solution with less work involved, it’s essential to consider whether the wallpaper is in good enough condition to paint over, along with the potential drawbacks such as visible texture and seams. On the other hand, removing wallpaper and plaster-skimming your walls before painting ensures a premium finish and long-lasting results..
Ready to transform your walls and breathe new life into your space? At Paradise Painting Services, our professional team specialises in
removing wallpaper, plastering and painting, ensuring a flawless finish that enhances the beauty of your home or business. To receive a free quote or for more information about our services, please
get in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I paint over wallpaper, or should I remove it first?
Yes, you can paint over wallpaper when it sits flat, feels firmly bonded, and has no peeling edges. Remove it first when the paper looks loose or damaged because paint can disturb the old glue and make lifting worse.
2. Is it better to paint over wallpaper or remove it?
Removing wallpaper gives a cleaner, longer-lasting finish because it lets paint bond directly to a stable surface. Painting over wallpaper suits quick updates when you accept that seams and texture may still show through.
3. How do I paint over wallpaper in NZ conditions?
Start by checking for any lifting joins, then seal the wallpaper with a quality sealer to lock in the adhesive and reduce moisture impact. Keep rooms well ventilated and allow longer drying time, as New Zealand humidity can slow curing and highlight seams.
4. Should I remove wallpaper before painting?
Yes, removal is the better choice when wallpaper has bubbles, peeling corners, or dents that you cannot properly smooth out. Painting over unstable paper often leads to a patchy finish and future lifting.
5. How do I remove wallpaper in NZ?
Score the surface lightly, apply warm water or a wallpaper remover, then scrape gently as the backing softens and releases. Wash off leftover paste and let the walls dry fully because damp surfaces can affect the next coating.
6. How do I strip wallpaper before painting?
Strip paper until the wall feels clean and even, then remove all glue residue to avoid paint reacting later. Finish by repairing any damaged plaster and sanding it smooth to get a consistent painted result.
