Should I paint over wallpaper?

Hi Traci,

Gently sand down the seams of the wallpaper so they're not too noticeable. Apply a coat of oil-based primer to the entire surface of the walls before painting. This helps seal the adhesive within the paper and away from the moisture in the paint.

Good Luck!

My Dad did this sometimes. But it depends on the type of wallpaper you have. A glossy paper might be difficult to cover as the paint might not go over evenly and might not seep in to the paper. You could try putting diluted PVA glue on first.

If it isn't glossy you might be alright, the paint can then soak into it.

If there are any seams coming unstuck stick first with PVA.

You will probably find the paper will bubble until it is dry.

Have a go, the only thing you will lose if it doesn't work is your time and the cost of the paint. Try a smaller wall first.

You will definitely see seams and it might bubble. If you have the time, I would remove it.

I tried to remove paper made in France, even rented the big steamer. Nothing would work. I first applied the primer, then painted. That was 30 years ago and the seams are still good after many color changes.

My vote is to remove it.

https://www.lowes.com/projects/paint-stain-and-wallpaper/remove-old-wallpaper/project

Only in rare instances is it ok to paint over wallpaper.

I have literally ripped out walls and replaced them because people painted over wallpaper and it looked horrible to be polite. Cheaper to replace sheetrock than spending hours and days trying to get rid of cheap quick fixes.

I used sheetrock mud over the seams and slightly sanded before painting. It was much easier than removing the wallpaper and you can not tell there was ever any wallpaper. It looks just like any other sheet rock wall. Ten years later and it still looks good.