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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.

The color of the paint, its opacity, and the depth of the texture on the paper all affect how many coats of paint you need to apply to paintable wallpaper. You'll need at least two coats of paint to ensure even coverage. Don’t be surprised if you need to apply three coats if the embossing is very deep or if you use a dark color.

The pros of wallpaper include its durability and longer lifespan than paint, as well as its versatility. The durability can translate to lower long-term costs for upkeep and replacement, and the versatility means you have more options for customizing rooms in your home. Some downsides include that it’s difficult to remove, it’s not ideal for rooms or areas exposed to high moisture content or sun exposure, and it’s tricky to install. A professional wallpaper hanger can help mitigate these issues, though, by installing it properly and in areas suitable for wallpaper.

Walls should be as smooth as possible before applying peel-and-stick wallpaper. Although you technically can apply wallpaper on textured walls, the peel-and-stick variety won’t last long without a clean, smooth surface for the adhesive to stick to. If you have textured walls, consult a pro about removing the textured finish before moving forward with wallpaper.