Paint Over Wallpaper?
Can I just paint over my wallpaper, or does the wallpaper HAVE to be stripped off first? Also what is the prep needed?
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It is always better to remove your wallpaper. When you paint over wall paper you can see the seems and it may get brittle with age. It will also be harder to remove the painted wallpaper at a later date. If it was me I would remove the wallpaper--even though sometimes it is a tough job! If you do decide to paint over your wallpaper you will have to prime it first as most wallpapers these days have a vinyl top layer. This article suggests using an oil based paint. Hope this helps you!
https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-paint-over-wallpaper/
You can paint over wallpaper, but as "Gk" said, it's better to remove it.
Here is a helpful video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWg4vGY5eNY
Cecelia: I always take off wallpaper first!
it can be done but I usually remove the wallpaper first
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKjsHq4Hcxc
Hi Cecelia, you can paint over it, you must make sure the edges are all smooth and that there are no divots or rips that will show through. Here is a link that will helps you out to ensure it is a beautiful thing once you finish.
https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/home-diy/painting/paint-over-wallpaper2.htm#:~:text=Gently%20sand%20down%20the%20seams,glue%2C%20causing%20bubbles%20or%20peeling.
We have paint over all the wallpaper in our very very old house. Someone did it before us, but we have since painted over it...again. You cannot see the seams and it has been fine. However, I am sure whoever did it first, did it right. I would consult a painting store before I attempted it and as others have stated if it can come off...it should. Good luck!
It doesn't have to be, but if it ever peels you will have a mess. Taking it off isn't terribly difficult. Here's how I do it:
Peel as much as possible from the walls.
If you can't get to the backing, you may need to score the paper with a tool. Paper Tiger is easy to find. Light pressure because you don't want to damage the wall behind the paper.
Mix 50/50 fabric softener & warm water in a spray bottle or garden sprayer. I've read that vinegar is as effective but I have never used it.
Allow the mixture to sit for 5 - 10 minutes so that it saturates the adhesive on the paper backing.
Scrape with a plastic scraper.
Once it is all removed, wash the walls with warm soapy water (blue Dawn is my go-to) and a microfiber cloth
You can paint over it, if the wall paper is in good condition. You definitely want a quality primer coat!