Do I have to remove old wallpaper before applying new wallpaper?

• <div><p>No, you don’t always have to remove old wallpaper before applying a new layer. However, you should pull off the existing wallpaper if it’s cracked, peeling, or in poor condition. We’d also recommend against <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/laying-wallpaper-over-wallpaper.htm">putting wallpaper over</a> textured or dark-colored wallpaper because the old layer may be visible through the new one. In addition, if you try to hang new wallpaper over vinyl-coated wallpaper, the adhesive might not stick properly. </p></div>

Is traditional or peel and stick wallpaper better?

• <div><p>When comparing <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/peel-and-stick-vs-traditional-wallpaper.htm">peel-and-stick versus traditional wallpaper</a>, peel-and-stick is more affordable and easier to DIY install. However, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-long-does-peel-and-stick-wallpaper-last.htm">it doesn’t last as long as traditional wallpaper</a>. Traditional wallpaper also holds up better in areas with moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms.</p></div>

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Q: What do I do with excess wallpaper?

• <div><p>You may end up with extra wallpaper once your project is finished. Hang on to that wallpaper, as you may need to use it to patch up areas that get damaged later on. If you have a lot of excess wallpaper, try getting creative with it. You can use it to line the inside of a cabinet or drawers, for example.</p></div>

Q: Do I have to remove old wallpaper before applying new wallpaper?

• <div><p>No, you don&rsquo;t always have to remove old wallpaper before applying a new layer. However, you should pull off the existing wallpaper if it&rsquo;s cracked, peeling, or in poor condition. We&rsquo;d also recommend against <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/laying-wallpaper-over-wallpaper.htm">putting wallpaper over</a> textured or dark-colored wallpaper because the old layer may be visible through the new one. In addition, if you try to hang new wallpaper over vinyl-coated wallpaper, the adhesive might not stick properly. </p></div>

Q: How long does hanging new wallpaper take?

• <div><p>Putting up new wallpaper tends to take one to two days, depending on the size of the area, whether old paper needs to be removed, and if there is any damage to walls that needs to be smoothed over or fixed.</p></div>

Q: How many times can you wallpaper over wallpaper?

• <div><p>Most experts would not recommend hanging wallpaper over existing wallpaper more than twice. Even if the walls are in good condition and primed well, that third layer of wallpaper could cause problems with adhesion. Unless you like bubbling paint and peeling wallpaper as an interior design choice, it&rsquo;s better to remove at least one existing layer before adding any more to a wall. </p></div>

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*The Angi rating for Wallpaper Service companies in Thermal, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Wallpaper Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Wallpaper Service companies in Thermal, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Wallpaper Service needs.

Last update on November 09, 2025

Reviewed in August 2025
I was debating whether to install the wallpaper myself or hire a professional but since I?m not great with DIY projects I decided to call in the experts. The team at Expert Home Builders took care of everything. During the estimate, they showed me different types of wallpaper. I honestly thought...
Expert Home Builders, Inc.
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Reviewed in October 2019
Kathy helped me install wallpaper in my daughter’s nursery 3 years ago, then she helped me remove it 2 years later, and today she helped me install wall paper in a new home for a new nursery. I’m always blown away by her work. She’s diligent and thoughtful and speedy, too. Kathy is incredibly...
Kathryn Walters Paper Hanging & Removal
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Reviewed in November 2016
Steve did an absolutely amazing job! The work is clean and crisp. Steve is very professional and friendly. Best wallpaper technician in Los Angeles! Extremely fair pricing as well.
STEVE PARKER WALLPAPER SERVICE
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Reviewed in January 2011
We called to schedule customer kitchen countertop measurement and installation. Wanted to support a small, local business and told them I'd use them as long as they matched the Home Depot price. They were very enthusiastic and said absolutely...told me they would call back in 20 minutes. 5...
WALLPAPER CITY
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Reviewed in May 2008
Upon receiving numerous estimates on painting and refinishing the interior of our newly acquired home we chose Rick based on 2 things. 1. His professionalism and attention to detail. 2. Price. Along with painting the interior, he refinished doors, repaired rotten walls, re drywalled bathrooms,...
PAINTING AMERICA
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Reviewed in March 2008
Called to get an estimate, had to call back with measurements. Had to call twice to get estimate. Once the estimate was received and sent back to the company, no one called to schedule a work date, so I had to call again. The date was set. However, the worker showed up on the wrong day. After...
Stripper Wallpaper Service
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Reviewed in January 2008
I phoned Mike one week ahead of my arrival in NY. I was only going to be in town for a few days. He was able to schedule the job during the time I'd be there. He brought 1 assistant and they carefully moved furniture, rolled up my area rug, covered the floor in plastic and got to work. Even...
Michael J Mahoney
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