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Yes, you can apply peel-and-stick wallpaper over wood paneling, but it requires significant preparation for a good result. Peel-and-stick wallpaper has a weaker adhesive than traditional wallpaper and works best on smooth, non-textured surfaces like painted or primed drywall. Because wood paneling is often textured with grooves, any flaws in the underlying surface will likely be visible after application. To prepare the paneling, you must ensure the surface is free of cracks, holes, and protrusions by filling any indentations and sanding rough spots to create a smooth surface. An alternative is to remove the paneling and apply the wallpaper directly to the underlying drywall or plaster, provided it is in good condition.

No, you don’t always have to remove old wallpaper before applying a new layer. However, you should pull off the existing wallpaper if it’s cracked, peeling, or in poor condition. We’d also recommend against putting wallpaper over textured or dark-colored wallpaper because the old layer may be visible through the new one. In addition, if you try to hang new wallpaper over vinyl-coated wallpaper, the adhesive might not stick properly. 

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.

When comparing peel-and-stick and traditional wallpaper, the better choice depends on your specific needs and space. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is more budget-friendly and easier to DIY install. On the other hand, traditional wallpaper lasts much longer and holds up better in a wider variety of spaces, including areas with moisture like kitchens and bathrooms.