The 5 Easiest Ways to Cover Old Wallpaper
Wallpaper has seen various highs and lows throughout design history, from its opulent beginnings in aristocratic homes to its widespread use in 20th-century households.
While removing it might seem like the natural first step in updating a room, it’s often more complicated than expected.
Peeling away layers can uncover uneven surfaces, crumbling drywall, or even lead-based paint in older homes. These issues not only escalate your project’s time and cost but can also pose health risks.
Covering wallpaper, on the other hand, is a practical solution that sidesteps many of these challenges. Modern materials like accent wall panelling and wood slat panels offer stylish and durable ways to conceal outdated designs.
These panels are easy to install and come in a variety of textures, from wood to faux brick, allowing you to refresh your space without the mess.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to effectively cover wallpaper and explore five creative materials to achieve a stunning transformation.
Should You Cover or Remove Wallpaper?
Deciding whether to cover or remove wallpaper depends on various factors, including the wallpaper’s condition, your time constraints, and your ultimate design goals. Each option has its benefits and challenges, so understanding when to choose one over the other can save you time, money, and headaches.
When to Cover Wallpaper
Covering wallpaper is often the go-to choice when the existing layer is still in good condition. If the wallpaper is firmly adhered, free of peeling edges, and has a relatively smooth surface, covering it can be a practical solution.
It’s a fantastic option for renters or homeowners who want a quick aesthetic change without diving into a messy renovation.
Covering wallpaper works well when you're short on time or want to avoid the potential for wall damage. Using materials like accent wall panelling or faux brick panels can effectively mask old patterns while adding texture and depth.
However, seams and raised patterns might still pose a challenge if you opt for thinner coverings like paint or wallpaper.
When to Remove Wallpaper
Removing wallpaper is the better option when dealing with older or heavily damaged walls. If the current wallpaper is bubbling, peeling, or stained, covering it could amplify these imperfections. Removal allows for a clean slate, providing flexibility to explore different finishes without restrictions.
However, removing wallpaper can be labor-intensive. It may reveal flaws in the underlying wall, such as cracks or uneven surfaces, which will require repair. For homeowners looking for a flawless finish or planning a long-term investment in their dining room decor, the extra effort could be worthwhile.
Making the Right Choice
If speed and minimal disruption are your priorities, covering wallpaper offers a simpler, faster route. However, for those aiming for a high-end, pristine look, removal provides greater design flexibility. Carefully weigh these factors to decide which approach aligns best with your needs and resources.
1. Covering Wallpaper with New Wallpaper
One of the simplest ways to cover wallpaper is by applying a new layer over it. This method has been a go-to solution for decades and remains popular today thanks to advancements in peel-and-stick technology.
Modern wallpapers come in a vast array of designs, from classic florals to geometric patterns, allowing you to refresh your space quickly. Peel-and-stick options are especially convenient, as they’re easy to apply and remove without leaving residue.
2. Transform Your Space with Accent Wall Panelling
For those seeking a more textured and dynamic look, accent wall panelling is an excellent choice. Paintable panels, in particular, offer versatility and ease of installation.
Whether you prefer classic wainscoting or contemporary geometric designs, these panels can be customized to fit your aesthetic. They’re typically installed using glue or nails, making them a viable option for both DIY enthusiasts and professional installers.
Wood slat panels and paintable wall panels are equally appealing, offering a modern touch with their sleek, vertical lines. They come in various wood types like walnut or oak, each bringing unique tones and textures to the room.
Not only do they create a visually striking backdrop, but they also enhance the room’s acoustics, reducing echo and noise. This makes them particularly suited for dining spaces where conversations and gatherings take center stage.
Both options excel at hiding imperfections in the underlying wallpaper, providing a smooth and polished surface.
Prices start at around $1.50 per square foot for paintable panels, while wood slat panels might be pricier depending on the wood species.
These solutions are not only budget-friendly but also adaptable, allowing you to refresh your dining room decor as trends evolve. For a truly personalized look, consider combining paintable panels with the timeless elegance of wood slat panels.
3. Faux Brick or Concrete Panels for an Industrial Touch
If you are a fan of the industrial look, faux brick or concrete panels are a brilliant way to infuse your space with rugged charm without the heavy lifting — or cost — of actual masonry.
These panels are designed to mimic the raw texture of real brick and concrete, offering a quick and efficient method to transform a wall. Available in lightweight interlocking sections, they can be adhered directly to a wallpapered surface, making installation a breeze.
Faux brick panels often come pre-finished, meaning you can achieve a rustic red-brick aesthetic right out of the box.
Faux concrete, on the other hand, introduces a sleek, modern vibe with its cool, gray tones. Both materials are ideal for creating statement walls that add depth and character to your dining room decor, perfectly complementing mid-century or contemporary furnishings.
While they may not have the tactile authenticity of the real deal, their ability to achieve an industrial touch with minimal effort makes them a worthy contender in home design.
When paired with warm lighting and metallic accents, these panels can elevate your space, offering a stylish backdrop that feels both edgy and inviting.
For a cohesive look, consider using these panels to highlight areas like a fireplace or a nook, creating focal points that blend beauty and function.
4. Warmth and Elegance with Wood Wall Panels
Wood wall panels effortlessly bring a sense of refined comfort to any dining space. With their natural textures and warm hues, they turn plain walls into conversation starters. Designs like the Original or Wide Willow add depth and dimension, creating a dining area that feels both grounded and sophisticated.
These panels are more than just decorative; they enhance the room's acoustics, cutting down on noise to make family dinners or gatherings with friends more enjoyable. Whether your style leans modern or rustic, wood wall panels offer incredible versatility. Install them with mounting clips or adhesive for a clean, seamless look.
What’s even better? They play well with other design elements, from sleek, minimalist furniture to vintage-inspired lighting. If you’re looking for a way to make your dining room feel more inviting and complete, these panels might be the perfect fit.
5. Textured Paint for a Seamless Finish
Textured paint offers a versatile solution for covering wallpaper, especially when tackling seams or minor irregularities.
Using thicker formulations like limewash or Venetian plaster, you can achieve a rich, tactile finish that adds character and sophistication.
Limewash, with its natural matte finish, brings a soft, chalky texture that works beautifully in rustic or minimalist settings. Venetian plaster, on the other hand, introduces a polished, almost marble-like effect, perfect for more elegant or contemporary interiors.
However, textured paint isn’t as simple as slapping on a coat. Preparation is key. Before applying, all loose or peeling sections of wallpaper must be firmly reattached to avoid bubbling.
A quality primer designed for wallpapered surfaces ensures the paint adheres properly and prevents any patterns from bleeding through.
Unlike accent wall panelling, which offers immediate coverage and structural benefits, textured paint requires more finesse but rewards you with a seamless and artistic finish.
For best results, experiment with sample patches to find the right consistency and texture for your space.
Keep in mind, this technique is particularly effective in rooms with ample natural light, as it emphasizes the paint’s subtle variations and depth. Whether paired with vintage furniture or modern decor, textured paint transforms walls into visual masterpieces.
Conclusion
Transforming your dining area doesn’t have to be a stressful endeavor. Whether you’re aiming for a quick refresh or a long-term makeover, covering old wallpaper opens up a world of design possibilities.
From peel-and-stick solutions that offer instant results to sophisticated accent wall panelling that adds both depth and charm, there’s a method to suit every taste and budget.
Each approach brings unique advantages. Some prioritize ease and speed, while others focus on enhancing texture and character.
Before diving in, it’s essential to evaluate the condition of your existing wallpaper and choose the method that aligns best with your goals. With a little creativity and the right materials, you can achieve a stunning transformation.
By exploring these innovative options, you’ll not only cover unsightly wallpaper but also elevate your dining room decor, turning it into a space that’s both functional and visually striking.
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