Can You Wallpaper Over Painted Wallpaper? Yes, Here's How.

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Is Wallpapering Over Painted Wallpaper Possible?

Yes, you can likely wallpaper over painted wallpaper, but success hinges on the existing wallpaper’s condition. If it’s smooth, securely attached, and damage-free, you’re probably good to go. However, peeling, bubbling, or loose seams suggest removing the old wallpaper first. Think of it like painting a canvas – a smooth surface is crucial for a flawless finish. Learn more about removing wallpaper.

Assessing Your Walls

Before you begin, thoroughly inspect your walls. Look for peeling paint, bubbling, or loose seams – these indicate an unstable surface, requiring old wallpaper removal. Common mistakes when laying laminate flooring can offer insights into the importance of surface preparation for any wall covering. Addressing these issues beforehand prevents headaches down the road.

Prepping for Wallpaper

Thorough preparation is key. Clean the walls with mild detergent and water, rinsing and drying completely. This removes any residue that could hinder adhesion. Repair imperfections like cracks or dents with spackle, sanding smooth for a flawless surface.

Priming, though sometimes skipped, is highly recommended. It enhances adhesion, preventing bubbling and peeling. Oil-based primers are generally preferred as they’re less likely to reactivate existing paint. Alternatively, use lining paper for a smooth, uniform surface, especially beneficial for walls with minor imperfections.

Choosing Your Wallpaper

Wallpaper selection matters. Thicker, textured wallpapers are more forgiving, masking minor imperfections. Lighter-weight papers, however, demand a near-perfect surface.

Wallpapering: A Step-by-Step Guide

Applying the Wallpaper

Prime: Apply primer evenly and let it dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Measure and Cut: Measure the wall height and cut wallpaper accordingly, adding a few extra inches for trimming.
Adhesive: Apply adhesive to either the wallpaper backing or the wall, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
First Strip: Carefully position the first strip, ensuring it’s perfectly vertical (plumb). This sets the alignment for the remaining strips.
Smooth: Use a smoothing tool to remove air bubbles, working from the center outwards.
Repeat and Match: Hang subsequent strips, carefully matching the pattern.
Trim: Trim excess wallpaper at the top and bottom with a sharp utility knife and straight edge.

Troubleshooting

Bubbling: Prick small bubbles with a needle and flatten. Inject adhesive under larger bubbles with a syringe and smooth.
Peeling: Reapply adhesive to peeling areas and smooth down. A seam roller can be helpful.
Visible Seams: Use seam sealer for a seamless finish.

Is Wallpapering Directly Over Wallpaper Advisable?

While tempting, directly wallpapering over wallpaper isn’t generally recommended. Existing imperfections may show through, and multiple layers create a thick, uneven surface. Old adhesive can reactivate, causing bubbling, and future removal becomes a nightmare. Trapped moisture may even lead to mold growth.

Removing Wallpaper: A Step-by-Step Guide

Score: Use a scoring tool to perforate the wallpaper, allowing removal solution to penetrate.
Apply Solution: Apply wallpaper removal solution evenly.
Soak: Allow the solution to soften the adhesive (15-20 minutes).
Scrape: Carefully scrape away the softened wallpaper.
Clean: Wash the wall to remove residual adhesive.

Alternatives to Direct Wallpapering

If removal is impossible, consider wall liner paper for a smoother base or explore other wall coverings like paint or textured finishes. Transform your kitchen with stylish and functional breakfast bar ideas.

Wallpapering Painted Walls: Achieving Success

Wallpaper can stick to painted walls, but success depends on preparation and paint type.

Key Preparation Steps

Clean: Wash the walls with mild detergent and water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Repair: Fill holes or cracks with spackle and sand smooth.
Prime (if needed): Glossy surfaces or extensively repaired areas benefit from priming. Oil-based primers are often effective for glossy finishes.

Paint Type Considerations

Flat/Matte: Ideal for wallpaper adhesion. Light sanding can improve it further.
Eggshell/Satin: A primer may be necessary. Test a small area first.
Semi-Gloss/Gloss: Sanding or a primer for glossy surfaces is usually required.
Oil-Based: Thorough sanding or a strong oil-based primer is crucial.
Freshly Painted: Allow 2–4 weeks for curing before applying wallpaper.

Hanging Wallpaper: A Simplified Guide

Measure and Cut: Measure, then cut wallpaper strips, adding extra for trimming.
Apply Adhesive: Apply adhesive as per wallpaper instructions.
Hang First Strip: Ensure the first strip is plumb (perfectly vertical).
Smooth Bubbles: Use a smoothing tool or brush.
Match Patterns: Align patterns on subsequent strips.
Trim Excess: Trim excess wallpaper at edges.

By following these steps and addressing potential challenges, your wallpapering project has a high probability of success, whether over painted wallpaper or directly onto painted walls. Remember, careful preparation sets the stage for a beautiful and long-lasting finish.

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Mark Soldy

Aficionado of interior design with a keen eye for style and innovation. As a guy deeply passionate about crafting captivating spaces, he blends creativity with functionality to breathe life into every room