When your walls are screaming for a refresh, two classics usually come to mind: paint vs wallpaper. Both have their place in design, and both can completely change a room’s mood. The right one depends on your style, your space, and how hands-on you want to be. Let’s break it all down so you can make the best decision.
Pros and Cons of Paint vs Wallpaper
Paint is the old reliable. It’s affordable, relatively easy to apply, and flexible when it comes to updating your space. You can get a full room done in a weekend, and if you’re someone who changes their mind often, repainting is a lot less painful than replacing wallpaper. Paint comes in a wide variety of sheens and shades, so it’s easy to match your vibe.
But paint has its drawbacks. Some finishes, especially matte ones, are prone to scuffing and hard to clean. If your walls take a beating from kids, pets, or just life in general, you might find yourself doing more touch-ups than you’d like.
Wallpaper, on the other hand, offers rich textures and intricate designs you just can’t replicate with paint. From botanical murals to subtle linen textures, wallpaper brings a certain depth and elegance to a room. It’s especially useful when you want a feature wall to feel unique or cozy.
The downside? Wallpaper can be pricey, especially for high-end designs or large rooms. Installation can be tricky without experience, and removing it down the line takes patience. If you’re not sure you’re in love with a pattern, it might feel like a bigger commitment than you’re ready for.
Best Places to Use Wallpaper and Best Places to Paint
Paint works best in high-traffic areas. Think hallways, kitchens, and kids’ rooms. These spaces tend to get scuffed or dirty, and paint is easier to clean or repaint when life gets messy. It’s also a great choice for ceilings or oddly shaped spaces where applying wallpaper might feel like a puzzle.
Wallpaper shines in places where you want a touch of personality or luxury. Dining rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms are ideal. These areas often benefit from a little drama or texture, and wallpaper can provide that. For example, a floral wallpaper in a bathroom can make a small space feel high-end and unforgettable.
Another smart move is to use wallpaper on a single accent wall, like behind a bed or couch. This lets you create visual impact without overwhelming the room.
Wallpaper Installation and Take Down Tips
Installing wallpaper isn’t impossible, but it’s definitely a process. Pre-pasted wallpapers have adhesive activated with water, while peel-and-stick types are easier to reposition during application. Traditional wallpaper often requires paste and careful alignment, especially for repeating patterns.
If you’re doing it yourself, start with a smooth wall and always measure twice. You’ll need a level, a smoothing tool, and a lot of patience. And don’t forget to turn off the electricity when working around outlets.
Taking wallpaper down can test your willpower, especially if it’s been up for years. To make it easier, use a wallpaper steamer or a spray solution to loosen the adhesive. Scoring the wallpaper first helps the solution soak in better. Be prepared to patch and sand the walls after removal if the wallpaper leaves residue or damage behind.
Durability of Paint vs Wallpaper
In terms of lifespan, both paint and wallpaper can go the distance if maintained properly. A high-quality paint job can last five to ten years, depending on wear and tear. However, you might notice chips or fading sooner, especially in sunny rooms or homes with lots of action.
Wallpaper can last up to 15 years or more if it’s in a low-moisture area and installed well. Some types are more prone to peeling at the seams, especially in humid bathrooms or kitchens. Vinyl wallpaper is more durable and moisture-resistant, which makes it a better option for those tricky spaces.
It’s worth noting that painted walls are easier to touch up. With wallpaper, fixing damage might mean replacing an entire panel.
Styles and Trends
Paint trends shift every year. Recently, earthy tones like terracotta, sage green, and muted blues have taken over. Accent ceilings, also known as the “fifth wall,” are trending too. People are embracing color (and color drenching! Read our blog on that here) more boldly than before and moving away from sterile all-white interiors.
At Ron Rice Painting, we offer full-service color consulting when you need the best results for your home or business.
Wallpaper has made a huge comeback in recent years. It’s not just your grandma’s floral prints anymore. Modern designs range from bold geometric patterns to subtle textures like grasscloth and silk. Murals and nature-inspired prints are especially hot right now. There’s even a rise in custom wallpaper options, allowing you to create a totally personalized space.
Paint is still the easier route if you like to keep things flexible. But if you want your walls to feel like art, wallpaper is your ticket.
Can You Paint Over Wallpaper?
Yes, but it’s not always the best idea. Painting over wallpaper can save time in the short run, especially if the wallpaper is firmly stuck and in good condition. However, it can also create long-term problems.
Paint tends to highlight imperfections. If the wallpaper has seams, texture, or bubbling, paint will only emphasize those flaws. It also makes future removal harder. Moisture from the paint can loosen the wallpaper adhesive, causing it to peel down the line.
If you go this route, use a primer designed for slick surfaces, and be prepared to do a few coats. It can work in a pinch, but removing the wallpaper first is usually the cleaner solution.
Final Things to Consider When Deciding Between Paint vs Wallpaper
Before settling on paint vs wallpaper, think about your long game. Do you want something timeless or trendy? Is your home a calm oasis or a high-traffic circus? Budget, style preferences, and patience all come into play.
If you’re someone who updates their space often or likes to experiment with color, paint gives you the freedom to switch it up with less hassle. If you’re designing a room where you want a sense of texture, coziness, or sophistication, wallpaper delivers that mood immediately.
Your home should reflect your personality. Some rooms will benefit from the speed and simplicity of paint, while others will come alive with the texture and depth of wallpaper. There’s no rule that says you can’t use both.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the paint vs wallpaper debate really comes down to lifestyle, preference, and the feel you want your space to have. Each has its strengths and drawbacks, and neither is the “wrong” choice. Let your home reflect who you are, one wall at a time.
Call Ron Rice Painting
Ready to breathe new life into your walls? Ron Rice Painting brings years of experience, precision, and care to every project. Give us a call, and let’s get your space looking sharp.