Painting over wallpaper feels like a quick solution. It saves time, avoids mess, and skips the work of scraping and steaming. If the wallpaper looks flat and secure, it may seem like a simple weekend project that refreshes the room without much effort.

The problem is that paint does not always hide what is underneath. Once paint dries, seams can become more visible, bubbles can stand out, and texture can show through. What looked fine before painting may suddenly look uneven or unfinished. This is why many people who paint over wallpaper end up unhappy with the result.

Common Issues With Painting on Wallpaper

Older wallpaper often has hidden problems. Even if it looks fine at first, the adhesive underneath may be weak. When paint is applied, moisture can loosen the glue and cause bubbles or peeling. Once that happens, fixing it becomes more difficult than starting fresh.

Another issue is texture. Patterns, raised designs, or thick seams do not disappear under paint. Instead, they often stand out more. Paint also highlights imperfections, so any flaws in the wallpaper surface become easier to see once the color changes.

When Painting Over Wallpaper Can Work

There are situations where painting over wallpaper can be a reasonable option. The key is condition and expectations. If the wallpaper is smooth, secure, and free from damage, painting over it may work for a short-term update.

Here are cases where painting over wallpaper can make sense:

• The wallpaper is firmly attached with no peeling, tears, or bubbles
  
  
• The surface is smooth with minimal seams
  
  
• Removing it could damage the drywall underneath
  
  
• You want a quick update and are okay with minor imperfections
  
  

In these situations, painting over wallpaper can change the look of a room without a full wall redo. Proper prep still matters to avoid issues later.

Why Removing Wallpaper Is Often the Choice

Removing wallpaper gives you a clean starting point. Once it is gone, the wall can be repaired, smoothed, and painted properly. This creates a finish that looks even and holds up better over time.

Wallpaper that is peeling, damaged, or textured should almost always be removed. Vinyl wallpaper can also be difficult to paint over and may cause adhesion issues. If you want long-term results and a smooth wall, removal is usually the right move.

Taking wallpaper down may seem like more work, but it often prevents future problems. It allows paint to bond directly to the wall, which helps avoid bubbling, peeling, and uneven surfaces later on.

Proper Steps If You Decide to Paint Over It

If painting over wallpaper is the chosen route, prep work is critical. Skipping steps almost guarantees issues down the line. The goal is to seal the wallpaper and smooth out problem areas as much as possible.

The process usually includes cleaning the wall, lightly sanding the surface, and fixing loose seams or damaged spots. A strong primer is needed to seal the wallpaper and help paint stick. Oil-based or shellac-based primers are often used for this step. After priming, quality wall paint is applied, sometimes in more than one coat, to get even coverage.

How Interior Painters Handle Wallpaper Situations

Professional interior painters look at the wall first, not just the wallpaper. They check for loose areas, texture, and signs of damage. This helps decide whether painting over it makes sense or if removal will give a better result.

If removal is the best option, painters handle the process carefully to protect the drywall underneath. Once the wallpaper is gone, the wall is repaired and prepped so paint goes on smoothly. If painting over wallpaper is chosen, painters use the right primers and techniques to reduce future problems and improve how the wall looks once finished.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Every home is different, and there is no one answer that fits every wall. Some wallpaper can be painted over with decent results, while other situations call for a fresh start. What matters most is understanding what you are working with and choosing the option that fits your goals.

Homeowners in Western MA and CT often reach out when they want a clean, updated look without guessing which route to take. Having experienced interior painters walk through the options makes the decision easier and avoids surprises once the job is done.

We’re Here to Help From Start to Finish

At Pioneer Painters, we help homeowners decide the best approach for walls with wallpaper. Whether removal or painting over it makes more sense, we handle the prep, protect your space, and make sure the final paint job looks clean and finished.

If your walls still have wallpaper and you are ready for a change, reach out today. Our team serves homes throughout Western MA and CT and is happy to talk through your options. With the right plan, your walls can look fresh again without the stress of trial and error.