When it comes to home decoration, wallpaper is a popular choice for adding color, pattern, and texture to any space. However, if you have painted walls and wish to update the look without the hassle of removing the existing paint, you might wonder if it is possible to apply wallpaper directly over the painted surface. In this article, we will explore this question and provide guidance on how to effectively apply wallpaper over painted walls.
Preparing the Painted Surface:
Before you begin applying wallpaper, it is essential to prepare the painted surface properly to ensure a smooth and long-lasting wallpaper application. The following steps outline the necessary preparations:
- Clean the walls: Thoroughly clean the painted walls to remove any dirt, grease, or dust using a mild detergent and water solution. Wipe the surface dry after cleaning.
- Inspect the paint: Examine the painted surface for peeling or loose paint. If there are any areas with flaking or chipped paint, it is crucial to scrape off the loose paint and sand the surface lightly. This step ensures that the wallpaper adheres properly and eliminates any potential issues caused by the underlying paint.
- Smooth out imperfections: If there are any dents or holes in the painted walls, fill them with spackle or an appropriate wall filler. Sand the patches once they dry to create an even surface.
- Prime the walls: To enhance the wallpaper’s adhesion and promote a smooth finish, apply a coat of wallpaper primer or an oil-based primer. This step seals the paint and helps the wallpaper adhere evenly over the entire painted surface.
Applying Wallpaper:
After preparing the painted walls, you are ready to start the process of applying wallpaper. The following steps will guide you through the application:
- Measure and cut: Measure the height of the wall accurately and add a few inches for trimming. Cut the wallpaper into appropriate lengths, allowing for pattern matching if necessary.
- Apply adhesive: Use a wallpaper adhesive recommended for your chosen wallpaper type. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix and apply the adhesive to the backside of the wallpaper evenly. Ensure that the entire surface is coated, paying extra attention to the edges.
- Book the wallpaper: “Booking” refers to folding the adhesive-coated wallpaper onto itself, allowing the adhesive to “activate” and the wallpaper to become more pliable. Consult the instructions provided with your wallpaper for the ideal booking time.
- Position and smooth: Carefully position the first strip of wallpaper at the top of the wall, using a plumb line for guidance. Smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles using a wallpaper brush or a plastic smoothing tool. Work from the center outwards to eliminate any trapped air.
- Repeat the process: Continue applying subsequent strips of wallpaper, aligning the patterns and overlapping the edges slightly. Use a sharp utility knife to trim excess wallpaper at the top and bottom.It is indeed possible to apply wallpaper over painted walls with the right preparation and technique. By properly cleaning, inspecting, and priming the painted surface, you can create an ideal canvas for wallpaper application. Remember to measure and cut the wallpaper accurately and apply the adhesive evenly. With attention to detail and following the correct steps, you can successfully transform your painted walls with the beauty of wallpaper.