Get matched with top wallpaper pros in Shamokin Dam, PA

Painting over wallpaper is an efficient way to cover it if it’s in decent shape. Before painting over wallpaper, make sure the surface is clean and smooth. You may have to remove minor problem areas, such as lifted seams or small peels, with a sheetrock knife or putty knife. Add a latex- or oil-based primer to keep moisture at bay before painting. You’ll likely need two coats of paint to cover the area.

Peel-and-stick wallpaper is designed to be removed cleanly without damaging paint or drywall—as long as the surface was properly primed or painted beforehand. Its ease of removal makes it a great choice for renters or anyone who wants a less permanent design choice. Be sure to apply it to a clean, smooth, and dry surface for optimal results.

The average cost of wallpaper installation is around $550 per project, or between $200 and $1,500, for most homeowners. Since projects and application areas vary wildly by size, it’s usually more helpful to have an estimate per square foot, which is between $1 and $7 per square foot, or an average of $4 per square foot. Project prices can fall above this range, though, especially if you purchase custom wallpaper or a luxury product. The best way to get an estimate for your project is to have a professional inspect your space and provide a quote.

Hanging wallpaper may seem simple, but in practice it requires significant planning and finesse to make it look professional. To start, you need to get an even application of wallpaper paste across all of your wallpaper, which requires experience and large pasting tables to get right. You also need to plan out your design and match it exactly so that you don’t have imperfections in the finished product. It’s often better to hire a professional wallpaper hanger who can get the job done properly for a clean, smooth finish.