Is it OK to paint over old wallpaper?

• <div><p>You can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/painting-over-wallpaper-its-possible.htm">paint over wallpaper</a> if it’s smooth and in good shape. But if there are bumps or tears in the wallpaper, they’ll likely show through the paint. Similarly, you should avoid painting over textured wallpaper because the ridges and patterns in the paper will be visible. In either of these situations, you should remove the wallpaper before painting.</p></div>

Is one coat of primer enough?

• <div><p>A single coat of primer is almost always sufficient. This is especially true if you’re painting over a smooth surface with minimal to no flaws.</p></div>

Get matched with top exterior painters in Friend, NE

Q: Should I use a paint sprayer like the pros?

• <div><p>When you hire a professional painter, this expert may use a paint sprayer to repaint a room instead of a roller and brushes. Using a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/spraying-vs-rolling-paint.htm">paint sprayer versus a roller</a> for a DIY job can be tough for a beginner. The cost of renting or buying a sprayer will be higher than buying rollers and brushes. It can be tough to ensure even coverage with a sprayer when you&rsquo;re a beginner. Avoiding splatters and overspray in other areas of the room can be difficult, too. Sprayers will save a lot of time, though. </p></div>

Q: Is it OK to paint over old wallpaper?

• <div><p>You can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/painting-over-wallpaper-its-possible.htm">paint over wallpaper</a> if it&rsquo;s smooth and in good shape. But if there are bumps or tears in the wallpaper, they&rsquo;ll likely show through the paint. Similarly, you should avoid painting over textured wallpaper because the ridges and patterns in the paper will be visible. In either of these situations, you should remove the wallpaper before painting.</p></div>

Q: What kind of paint do you use over wallpaper?

• <div><p>If you decide to paint over wallpaper, it&rsquo;s important to prep the surface with an oil- or shellac-based primer. This helps prevent moisture from creating bubbles loosening the adhesive. Plus, a primer helps paint attach to the wall smoothly and securely. Use quality <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/types-of-paints-latex-vs-acrylic.htm">oil-based or latex paint</a> to cover the wallpaper. Be prepared to cover the wallpaper with two coats for maximum coverage.</p></div>

Q: Can you paint a metal fence?

• <div><p>You shouldn't paint a metal fence. Painting doesn't necessarily damage a corrugated metal fence, but these types of fences are meant to flex, and paint can easily chip and break off. Latex paints can address this issue, but those tend not to be very weather-resistant. Certain paints can trap moisture in the corrugation, which can rust the metal and lead to corrosion. And finally, if you paint a copper fence, it won't patina, which is one of the main reasons people buy copper. </p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your exterior painting project in Friend, NE?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Exterior Painting pros in Friend, NE

*The Angi rating for Exterior Painting companies in Friend, NE is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Exterior Painting needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Exterior Painting companies in Friend, NE is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Exterior Painting needs.

Last update on December 11, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
Hired to complete my demolition of concrete slab, shed of 8x10. Did honest work and was thorough with cleaning up of job site. Would recommend to anyone needing demolition at their home or business.
Perez Demolition & Concrete Removal LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2025
We were completely satisfied with our experience from start to finish. Brian came to get the painters started on the job. The painters were very professional-neat, quiet, excellent workmanship. Scott came to check on the progress and later on the finished job to make sure we were pleased,...
True Finish Painting, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2025
Tigran and team did a super job on painting our home. They painted our living room with vaulted ceiling and over our stairs and high pets of kitchen. We had large cracks and they plastered and repaired and painted and made everything new and really took extra detailed time. Another painter...
Tigran's Home Improvement, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2024
Hired big red exteriors after asking a handful of other companies to help with demoing and putting in a new pad and new composite deck! Turned out beautiful, and he was a very knowledgeable individual was quick to answer questions for me making the process easy. While he was here I asked about...
Big Red Exteriors LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2016
Jeff and his crew painted the exterior of my large home. It was a big job, with a lot of detail work. Jeff's crew was extremely courteous and professional. The job took about 8 working days, and, painters were here promptly every day until the job was finished. They did a great job, and, we're...
Walter's Painting Inc
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2015
The owner Chris Landis was a pleasure to work with. The workmanship was excellent and performed in a timely manner. I highly recommend the Paint Pros.
Paint Pros
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2014
We had almost our entire first floor painted, ceilings and walls. We also had a room in our lower level walkout drywalled. We really needed a whole house deep clean. I called Anthony at Details Cleaning and he couldn't be more helpful. We set up two dates to do the work since it could not...
Details Cleaning Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2010
I was given an estimate by Travis, who treated me with respect and a great deal of professionalism. When I called back to set up an appointment, I was told I would have to wait a week for the parts to be ordered. Not bad considering it was Memorial Day weekend. I was initially told my car...
GREAT PLAINS AUTO BODY
Request a quote