Get matched with top wallpaper pros in Rolling Prairie, IN

You can wallpaper and paint over certain types of wallpaper, but it’s usually a better idea to remove it first. Removing the wallpaper and prepping the wall before painting is a good way to guarantee a smooth finish that looks professional. If you ever have a moisture or water issue after painting over wallpaper, the paper will bubble and damage your wall. Additionally, you should never paint over wallpaper already peeling or otherwise damaged, as this will leave obvious imperfections in your wall and could lead to additional problems.

Ideally, you want to ask the wallpaper installers you’re considering for examples of past work, and references you can call. These will prove that the installer can handle your job, make your room look professional, and will also give you some insight into the kind of customer service you can expect. Before you start calling companies, you might want to narrow down your options by finding installers with mostly positive reviews online.

In most cases, you cannot wallpaper over existing wallpaper. It’s possible to wallpaper over non-coated wallpaper, but vinyl-coated wallpaper is much more prevalent in homes, so you generally shouldn’t put new wallpaper over existing wallpaper. Adding a layer of wallpaper over vinyl-coated paper will lead to poor adhesion, leaving behind bubbles and imperfections in your wall. Plus, wallpapering over vinyl-coated wallpaper can lead to mold growth, which can be hazardous to your health. It’s usually best to hire a local wallpaper removal service to handle the task to avoid these issues.

If you prefer peel-and-stick to traditional wallpaper, you can skip the priming process. Many manufacturers don't require an additional primer if you’re installing peel-and-stick wallpaper to painted walls. However, if you’re applying peel-and-stick wallpaper to unfinished drywall, you’ll need to apply a primer first.