Ever wondered, "Can you wallpaper over wallpaper?" It's a question that's crossed the minds of many DIY enthusiasts and thrifty interior decorators. Well, the short answer is, yes, you can. But it's not always as simple as it sounds.
There are a few crucial factors you need to consider before you start slapping on that new layer. From ensuring the new wallpaper adheres properly to the old, to taking into account the thickness of the new wallpaper and making sure the patterns compliment each other.
With a little bit of planning, wallpapering over wallpaper can be a quick and easy way to give your room a fresh new look. But remember, if in any doubt about the state of your current wallpaper, your best bet might be to strip back to bare walls and start afresh.
Embracing the task of wallpapering over existing wallpaper may seem daunting. But, it's not as complicated as it seems. With the right information and tools, you could give your room a fresh new look.
First, get up-close and personal with the current wallpaper. Examine it for any loose areas, lumps, rips, or tears. Do you see only one layer on the wall? If the current wallpaper is in good shape and adheres well to the wall, you're good to go.
Evaluating the wallpaper's thickness and design is vital as well. The new wallpaper shouldn't be too thick, as it might cause the old wallpaper to wrinkle or buckle. Also, ensure the pattern of the new wallpaper complements that of the old to avoid a messy, uncoordinated finish.
Proper prepping of your current wallpaper is vital to achieving a smooth application of the fresh wallpaper. Here's a simple guide to help you do just that:
Consider applying a layer of primer on vinyl wallpapers you don't fancy removing. The primer will serve as a surface that the new wallpaper can stick to. If painting over wallpaper, then a primer will be needed.
Armed with a smooth, primed surface, you're ready to hang your new wallpaper. Go for wallpapers that are easy to apply.
The process of hanging new wallpaper resembles that of prepping the surface:
Fixing new wallpaper over the existing layer can be a tricky business. Still, most likely, you're toying with the idea because you've heard both its conveniences and challenges.
Firstly, the obvious advantage: time and effort. Stripping off old wallpaper can be time-consuming and messy work, potentially damaging your walls. Deciding to wallpaper over existing wallpaper saves you the hassle and potential risks.
Likewise, you protect your walls from unnecessary wear and tear. If your old wallpaper is adhered strongly to your wall - peeling it off might harm the wall's surface, especially if it's drywall. By simply wallpapering over it, you're preserving the integrity and condition of your base wall.
While these conveniences make a compelling case, it's prudent to guard against hasty decisions and consider the downsides.
First, you're inherently restricting your new wallpaper options - especially considering the texture and alignment issues. You need to choose a wallpaper that is heavy enough to conceal the texture of the existing one. If not aligned correctly, visible seams could pose a challenge. So, it becomes crucial to opt for a wallpaper equipped to cover textured surfaces effectively.
Next, think about any bubbles, blisters, or peeling edges in your existing wallpaper. When wallpapering over, such imperfections are likely to manifest in the new layer. So you're still labouring over fixing the existing wallpaper surface – smoothing seams, filling holes, and even sanding the surface.
Last but not least, possibly the most ominous threat – what's underneath those layers of old wallpaper? Could they be concealing moisture damage, mould, or mildew hazards? Unknown conditions lurking beneath could jeopardize the durability of your new wallpaper while also posing a potential health risk.
So, can you wallpaper over wallpaper? Yes, you can. It's a time-saving, cost-effective method that can protect your walls from damage. But, it's not without its drawbacks. You may face limited wallpaper choices, alignment issues, and need to fix any imperfections in the existing wallpaper. Plus, there's the risk of hidden moisture damage or mould. It's crucial to consider these factors before making your decision. It's all about weighing up the benefits and potential issues to decide whether it's the right choice for your home. The professionals at Apex Inc. can assess your current wallpaper and the condition of your walls, and recommend next steps. They have the experience and techniques to hang wallpaper flawlessly. After all, your walls are an essential part of your living space, and you want them to look their best.