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 Modern materials like accent wall panelling and textured paint offer stylish and durable ways to conceal outdated designs.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
Whether you're a renter or a homeowner, covering wallpaper is a great solution when you want a quick aesthetic change without diving into a messy renovation. It can also be a great option when removing the existing wallpaper is just going to cause more issues, like...
Crumbling drywall!
Uneven peeling!
More drywall underneath!
If you're reading this, maybe you've peeled a small amount of wallpaper off and already seeing some of the challenges above, and you're wondering if you really need to go through with this.
If there's already damage to the wallpaper itself, uneven seams or tears, or any other imperfections to the surface, thicker solutions like textured wall panelling can make all new again.
If the wallpaper is still in good shape without any major bubbling, peeling, or dents, thinner options like textured paint or, yes we're saying it, another layer of (newer) 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 home, the extra effort can be worthwhile.
Making the Right Choice
If speed and minimal disruption are your priorities, covering wallpaper offers a simpler, faster route. It's also ideal if you're worried about disturbing asbestos or old, lead-based paint, which must be done by a professional in most areas, but can typically be covered without the need for remediation or hiring a professional.
On the other hand, if you have the have the time to remove the wallpaper, repair and re-finish what's underneath and want your home to be permanently wallpaper-free, forever, you may want to get it over with and do the entire removal process.
Carefully weigh these factors to decide which approach aligns best with your needs and resources.
1. Cover 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. Cover the Wallpaper With Paintable Wall Panelling
For those seeking a more textured and dynamic look, accent wall panelling is an excellent choice. Paintable fluted panels like the ones pictured above offer versatility and ease of installation.
Whether you prefer classic wainscoting or contemporary geometric designs, there are paintable wall panelling styles out there to fit every aesthetic. They’re typically installed using glue or nails, making them a viable option for both DIY enthusiasts and professional installers.
Depending on your region, painted wall panel pricing can range from $2-7 per sqft, with basic options like beadboard being on the lower end, and premium options like fluted or ribbed panelling costing more.
3. Cover Old Wallpaper With Faux Brick or Concrete Panels for an Industrial Touch
If you’re drawn to industrial or urban aesthetics, faux brick and concrete panels are the way to go.
These materials replicate the raw, textured appeal of masonry without the need for extensive labor or expense.
Historically, real brick and concrete were used to create bold architectural statements in loft-style apartments and warehouses. Today, faux panels provide an easier, lightweight alternative.
Faux brick panels, often pre-finished in classic red or whitewashed tones, bring a rustic charm to any room.
Meanwhile, faux concrete offers a sleek, modern finish, perfect for minimalist designs. Both types are available in interlocking sections, making installation a breeze.
Simply adhere them over the old wallpaper to instantly transform your space, and it can be a great way to create a TV accent wall as well.
4. Cover Old Wallpaper and Add Warmth with Wood Wall Panels
Wood wall panels are a timeless choice for homeowners looking to introduce warmth and natural beauty into their interiors.
These panels work exceptionally well for covering wallpaper, as they create a solid, structured backdrop that conceals imperfections, and the thick acoustical felt backing also conceals any crumbling or wall damage that has already occurred.
Designs like the Original or Wide Willow Panel add depth and dimension that feels both grounded and sophisticated.
They’re also highly customizable and come in a variety of finishes and wood types, including premium options like oak and walnut, as well as more budget-friendly alternatives.
Installation is straightforward and typically involves screws or adhesive, ensuring a secure and durable fit. For detailed guidance, check out our step-by-step instruction blog for expert tips.
5. Paint Over Old Wallpaper With Textured Paint for a Seamless Finish
Textured paint is one of the easiest ways to cover wallpaper while adding depth and sophistication to a room.
If you want a unique, artistic finish that goes beyond simple paint, options like limewash and Venetian plaster are fantastic choices.
These techniques, which date back centuries, were traditionally used to create luxurious finishes in European homes.
Limewash has a soft, matte texture, perfect for a calming, organic feel, while Venetian plaster provides a more polished look, reminiscent of marble. Both finishes add an extra layer of interest, allowing the wall to become a focal point.
Applying textured paint is relatively easy, but proper preparation is essential to get the best results. As pictured above, this can be a great DIY project, as it was for Jenn Liu.
Begin by securing any loose wallpaper edges and using a primer to ensure the paint adheres evenly. This step is crucial in preventing any old wallpaper patterns from showing through.
Unlike accent wall panelling, which covers wallpaper with a solid structure, textured paint creates a seamless look that subtly transforms the space.
The effort is well worth it, as the results can make your walls look like true works of art, adding personality and character to the room.
This approach not only hides the old wallpaper but also elevates the wall's appearance, making it perfect for anyone looking to combine simplicity with elegance.
Whether you prefer the soft, chalky effect of limewash or the sleek polish of Venetian plaster, textured paint offers a creative way to cover wallpaper and breathe new life into your home’s interior design.
Conclusion
Covering old wallpaper doesn’t have to feel like an overwhelming project. With a range of methods like new wallpaper, accent wall panelling, faux brick, and textured paint, you can easily find an approach that suits your style and budget.
Each option offers unique benefits, from the sleek, modern finish of panels to the artistic texture of limewash or Venetian plaster. These techniques not only hide outdated patterns but also bring fresh character and functionality to your walls.
Whether you’re seeking a quick refresh or a total transformation, these solutions make it easy to cover wallpaper without the hassle of removal.
By choosing the right method, you can tackle imperfections while giving your home a polished, cohesive look.
With the variety of materials available today, transforming your space into something stylish and personalized is well within reach. Take the leap and turn those outdated walls into a statement that speaks to your personal taste.
Can I wallpaper over brand new paper to cover visible seams and gaps beneath ceiling
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