Get matched with top wallpaper removers in Dasher, GA

While it is possible to paint over wallpaper, it is generally better to remove it first to guarantee a smooth, professional finish. Painting over wallpaper can save time, but it may lead to issues if not done correctly.

You can paint over existing wallpaper if it is in excellent condition: smooth, non-textured, clean, and firmly adhered to the wall. Ensure there are no bumps, tears, or peeling areas, and that all corners and seams are securely glued down. You might also consider painting over wallpaper if removing it would damage the underlying wall. Additionally, some wallpapers are specifically designed to be paintable, which can add texture to a room.

However, there are risks. If the wallpaper is textured, damaged, or peeling, these imperfections will show through the new paint. The moisture from the paint can also loosen the wallpaper's adhesive, causing it to bubble and potentially damage the wall. To mitigate these issues, clean the surface thoroughly and use an oil-based primer to help the paint adhere and prevent the old adhesive from bleeding through.

Many peel-and-stick wallpapers aren’t moisture-resistant, so if you install them in high-humidity rooms, mold can grow behind the wallpaper. It’s best to reserve peel-and-stick wallpaper for bedrooms, living rooms, and other rooms with lower humidity levels. Not only does this minimize the risk of mold growth, but it also keeps the wallpaper from bubbling or peeling.

Hiring a professional wallpaper remover is almost always worthwhile. Although the work is more expensive due to labor costs, doing it yourself is extremely time-consuming, complicated, and easy to make mistakes and wreak havoc on your walls, regardless of the tools you use. Professional wallpaper removers have the tools and experience to get old wallpaper down quickly and without damaging the walls behind it.

Wallpaper lasts an average of around 15 years, but there is some variance. The type of wallpaper matters, as vinyl wallpaper tends to last the longest—sometimes 20 years or more—while a peel-and-stick wallpaper, which is the easiest to install for DIYers, will usually only last for around five years. Exposure to high humidity, smoke, and UV rays from sunlight can also limit the lifespan of your wallpaper, as can heavy traffic in the installation area.