Can you wallpaper over wallpaper?

Author: Dr. Edna McClure PhD  |  Last update: Wednesday, March 12, 2025

There are two types of wallpaper: non-coated and vinyl-coated. In most cases, non-coated paper can be wallpapered over. However, vinyl-coated paper cannot be wallpapered over. Vinyl is nonporous, so new wallpaper will not stick to it, and adding a layer on top of it will create mold.

What happens if you wallpaper over wallpaper?

Anything you put over wallpaper will rip the existing wallpaper off when you remove it. You can't cover it with anything without damaging it, unless maybe you tack up a really big poster, but even that runs the risk of damaging the existing wall paper.

Do I have to remove old wallpaper before applying new wallpaper?

- Stripping the old wallpaper and starting with a clean surface is generally the best approach for long-term durability and a professional finish. It allows you to address any underlying issues and ensures better adhesion of the new wallcovering.

How can I cover wallpaper without removing it?

Tapestry. Large tapestries or wall hangings can cover up your wallpaper without a full renovation. Not only can they camouflage the wallpaper you're trying to remove, but they can also add texture, interest, and a new focal point to the space.

Can you put peel-and-stick wallpaper on top of existing wallpaper?

Applying peel and stick wallpaper over existing wallpaper can be tricky. For best results, ensure the existing wallpaper is smooth, clean, and firmly adhered to the wall. Textured or damaged surfaces may cause the peel and stick wallpaper not to adhere properly, leading to bubbles or peeling.

How To Hang Wallpaper Over Wallpaper -Spencer Colgan

Is peel and stick wallpaper a good idea?

If you're looking to spruce up your space temporarily or if you're a renter, peel and stick wallpaper is a great choice. It allows for quick decor changes without the commitment. Plus, it's ideal for creating a decorative accent wall or for use in various DIY projects.

How much does it cost to overlap peel and stick wallpaper?

Apply Remaining Strips

If you are having difficulty with an uneven corner, try cutting into the corner rather than wrapping from one wall to the next. Slightly overlapping lengths/strips by approximately 1/32in (0.5mm) is recommended.

What is the cheapest way to cover old wallpaper?

Paint an oil-based paint color on the wall.

Pick out the color that you want to use on your wallpaper and apply the first coat using a paint roller. Darker colors will be easier to use, since they'll cover the wallpaper faster, but you can choose any color that you'd like to.

What is the quickest way to remove old wallpaper?

Remove Washable Wallpaper

Use a scoring tool to create holes in the wallpaper. Use a spray bottle to soak the paper. Spray water into the slits so it can work its way behind the covering. Wait about 10 minutes and then scrape off the paper with a putty knife.

Is painting over wallpaper a good idea?

If you're tired of looking at your outdated wallpaper, it can be quite tempting to paint right over it. However, whenever possible, you should always remove the wallpaper before painting to ensure better results.

How often should wallpaper be replaced?

On average, wallpaper can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, but this can be shorter in high-traffic or high-humidity areas. Regular maintenance and professional installation can significantly extend the life of your wallpaper, ensuring your home remains stylish and well-decorated for years to come.

How to tell if wallpaper is vinyl coated?

If you're not sure if your wallpaper is coated, dampen a sponge with warm water and rub it on a small corner. If the entire area darkens from the moisture, then it's non-coated.

How long do you have to soak wallpaper before you remove it?

Wet the walls

Leave the backing to get fully saturated. Work in sections to ensure the wall doesn't dry out before you have the chance to scrape. If the top layer doesn't peel off easily, apply a liberal coat of wallpaper stripping solution, leaving for 15-20 minutes to soak in.

Is it better to remove wallpaper or wallpaper over it?

Furthermore, layering over vinyl can lead to moisture and mould problems. Therefore, it's generally recommended to remove vinyl wallpaper before applying a new one.

How to put wallpaper on top of wallpaper?

  1. CHECK YOUR OLD WALLPAPER FOR PROBLEM AREAS.
  2. SEAL THE SEAMS IN YOUR OLD WALLPAPER.
  3. APPLY FILLER TO YOUR OLD WALLPAPER.
  4. CLEAN THE WALLS.
  5. APPLY YOUR NEW WALLPAPER.
  6. IF NEEDED, TOUCH UP YOUR PAINTED WALLS.

Does wallpaper devalue a home?

Here are some common home improvement projects that could decrease the value of your home: Too much wallpaper. Built-in electronics. Wall-to-wall carpeting.

How does vinegar remove old wallpaper?

Mixed with water, vinegar's acetic acid helps to break up wallpaper adhesive. Combined with scoring the paper and a variety of gentle scrapers, this method can safely and reliably remove wallpaper from almost any wall surface.

What not to do when removing wallpaper?

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Removing Wallpaper
  1. Attempting to Use Ineffective Chemical Hacks. Trying to remove wallpaper using chemical hacks is ineffective at best, and this method can be quite dangerous. ...
  2. Not Scouring the Wallpaper. ...
  3. Not Having an Adequate Trash Can. ...
  4. Buying Too Many Supplies. ...
  5. Trying to Do Everything at Once.

How can I cover my wallpaper without removing it?

The 5 Easiest Ways to Cover Old Wallpaper
  1. Should You Cover or Remove Wallpaper?
  2. Cover Wallpaper with New Wallpaper.
  3. Cover the Wallpaper With Paintable Wall Panelling.
  4. Cover Old Wallpaper With Faux Brick or Concrete Panels for an Industrial Touch.
  5. Paint Over Old Wallpaper With Textured Paint for a Seamless Finish.

How do professionals remove old wallpaper?

For the majority of wallpaper removal projects, you'll need to apply a hot water solution to the paper and adhesive backing in order to reactivate the adhesive and allow the paper to come off of the wall.

Why is wallpaper removal so expensive?

Wallpaper Removal Cost Factors. When you hire a professional wallpaper removal service, you are mostly paying for intensive hands-on time to scrape and clean the walls. A contractor may also need to repair the damage that could happen during the removal process.

What is the downside of peel and stick wallpaper?

Cons: Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is important for successful installation of peel and stick wallpaper, requiring smooth walls. Not Suitable for All Surfaces: Peel and stick wallpaper may not adhere well to certain surfaces such as textured walls or uneven surfaces.

How to hide overlapping wallpaper seams?

Double cutting wallpaper involves overlapping two strips of wallpaper and then cutting through both layers at the same time. This process, known as the double cut seam, ensures that the edges match up perfectly. It requires precision and patience, but the result is a beautifully smooth surface with no visible seams.

How many strips of wallpaper do you get out of a roll?

The simple answer is three. For an average-sized room, you will get three drops of wallpaper per roll with some paper left over for finishing around windows and doors. For rooms with lower ceilings, you may get four drops per roll and for those with extra high ceilings, you may only just get three drops.

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