Yes you can wallpaper over paint. Wallpapering over a painted surface actually makes removal easier. It depends on whether the wall has to be primed or not for the application of the wallpaper. Peel and stick wallpapers generally do not require primer. However a paint sheen with a level of gloss may make a great suitable finish type for installation of wall-covering. A flatter paint is slightly textured which can make it difficult to install a wall-covering or wallpaper.
Wallpaper with Paste
Paste has to be used for adherence with some wall papers and with these products the glossy level of finish might not be warranted. You will want the paint to be strongly adhered to the wall. Already peeling paint should be removed from the wall surface to promote proper adhesion of the wall covering.
Not all wallpapers require paste. Some products come with adhesive on the back which is activated with water. You simply have to soak or wet the back to activate the glue on the product. This is typically for lighter wallpaper products which in most cases are fine to be installed onto smooth and well-finished painted surfaces.
Cleaning Painted Walls to Promote Proper Adhesion of Pastes
You will want to remove/scrape off any loose of cracking paint. Painted walls can also be washed or sanded to promote proper adhesion of pastes for wallpapers and wallcoverings. Clean the wall of any dust, dirt, or grime. Also if there are cracks the rough areas should be sanded down. Lighter wallpapers might adhere to painted walls but can show imperfections.
You should not consider wallpapering over paint if paint is flaking or peeling, or if there is mold. Uneven textured walls are also a concern.
Key Pointers to Wallpaper Installation over Painted Walls
- Depending on whether their is a paste or no paste installation requirement, glossy sheens for paint can compromise the installation methodology for wallcovering installation over paint.
- If you have to install wallcovering on a matte or flat paint surface, make sure all surface imperfections are dealt with.
- Heavy wallpapers may benefit from the utilization of sanding of the surface of paint for better adhering of the paste for installation of the wallcovering.
- Light wallpapers can typically be installed onto the surface of painted walls without a cause for concern as long as the painted surface is free of imperfections.
- Painted walls with damage such as flaking or generally fading finish should be avoided for installation of wallcovering over top of them.
Heavy Wallpapers
Heavier wallpapers are great for covering up dark colors or imperfections. However they may require a serious adhesive to be properly installed. Glossy surfaces are typically too smooth and can cause wallpaper adhesive to slide. Slight sanding with glossy surfaces is great to achieve proper surface preparation.
Some wallpapers come with paste and others do not, and require paste to be applied to the wall. Read the manufacturer’s instructions that come with the wallpaper installation.
Check for Paint Adhesion
You can check for paint adhesion for an existing painted wall with a knife. Paint that strips off with a small cut mark and some tape is probably not best to be utilized for wallpaper installation. The wallpaper has to adhere to the paint. You can also test paint with a wet sponge and see if scrubbing removes any of the finish.
Any loose paint should be removed. Adhesion primer for wallpaper installation could be utilized. Wall deformations can be repaired with spackling or drywall compound.
When in doubt, consulting the services of a professional wall-covering installation company is warranted.
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