Handyman Mississauga: Can You Paint Over Wallpaper?

A fresh coat of paint has a magical way of making a home feel new again. But if you’re staring at wallpaper-covered walls, you might be wondering whether you can simply paint over it or if it’s time to remove it altogether. Painting over wallpaper may seem like a straightforward solution to save time and effort, but the reality is a bit more complicated. 

Whether you’re exploring painting services in Mississauga, considering wallpaper removal, or pondering the best way to revamp your space, understanding the pros and cons is key to making the right decision for your home. 

To Paint Over Wallpaper or Not? What You Need to Know

Many homeowners consider painting over wallpaper as a shortcut to avoid the tedious process of wallpaper removal. While it’s possible to paint over wallpaper, it’s not always the best route to take. Painting directly on wallpaper can lead to uneven surfaces, peeling paint, and, in some cases, a less attractive finish than you might expect. 

Wallpaper is essentially a layer that’s fixed onto your walls, and when you add paint over it, you’re layering even more onto a surface that wasn’t initially designed to hold that much weight. Over time, the adhesion can weaken, especially if the wallpaper is already old or poorly installed. Paint may not stick evenly, leading to unintended cracks and peeling.

Another concern is the seams of the wallpaper. No matter how careful you are, those seams will likely still be visible after painting. And depending on the wallpaper texture, painted walls may look bumpy or uneven. Not to mention, if the wallpaper starts to bubble or come loose, it’ll damage not only the wallpaper but your paint job as well. While it may seem like painting over wallpaper is a simple DIY project, these potential issues are why it’s better to think twice before grabbing a paintbrush.

That said, there are rare cases where painting over wallpaper might be acceptable. If the wallpaper is in excellent condition, with no peeling edges or bubbles, and you’re looking for a short-term fix, it could be worth trying. However, keep in mind that this is more of a temporary solution, as it often doesn’t last as long as removing the wallpaper and painting a properly prepped surface.

Wallpaper Removal: The Right Way

Removing wallpaper may sound like a daunting task, but it’s the best way to ensure the longevity of your new paint. While there are countless tips and tricks you can find online, not all methods will work for every wall or type of wallpaper. The process generally involves soaking, scraping, and cleaning the underlying wall, but it requires a specific level of attention to avoid damaging the surface of the wall.

Start by checking how securely the wallpaper is adhered to the wall. Sometimes, wallpaper comes off relatively easily, especially if it was attached with water-based adhesive. However, older wallpaper or wallpaper installed with stronger adhesives may require chemical solutions or steamers to loosen the glue. A steamer is particularly useful for stubborn wallpaper, as it gently melts the adhesive, allowing the wallpaper to peel off without too much resistance.

Next is the scraping process, which can be very tricky. Using the wrong tools or applying too much pressure could result in scratches or gouges on the drywall beneath. Once the wallpaper is off, it’s essential to clean the wall thoroughly to remove any leftover glue residue. Failing to do so can lead to bumps and uneven textures when you apply paint later. 

A big challenge of wallpaper removal is the time and patience it requires—not to mention the physical effort involved. For many homeowners, this can be overwhelming, especially without the proper tools or experience. And if you’re dealing with multiple layers of wallpaper, the complexity increases. This is where professional services like Handyman Connection come in handy. Professionals not only have the expertise and tools to remove wallpaper properly but also ensure that your walls are smooth and ready for painting.

Prepping Walls for a Flawless Paint Job

Once the wallpaper is removed, you’re almost ready to paint, but there are still a few important steps to take to ensure your walls look flawless. Skipping these can leave your walls looking rough or lead to problems down the line.

First, inspect the walls for any damage like cracks, holes, or uneven areas. Wallpaper removal often exposes minor issues that need to be filled or skimmed before painting. A high-quality primer is a crucial step in preparing your wall for paint. Primer creates a smooth base and ensures better adhesion for your paint, giving you that polished finish you’re dreaming of. It also helps seal the surface, which is especially important if any glue residues are left behind, as those can interfere with the paint’s smooth application.

Then, make sure you’re working on a clean, dry surface. Any dust, dirt, or residue can cause the paint to adhere unevenly. If you notice any stubborn areas where glue hasn’t come off entirely, gently clean it with a mixture of warm water and vinegar. Allow the walls to dry completely before applying the primer.

Last but not least, choose a high-quality paint that suits your specific needs, whether you’re refreshing a living room with a calm, neutral tone or creating an accent wall with a bold colour. Investing in high-quality materials can make all the difference in the final result.

Why Wallpaper and Painting Problems Are Best Left to the Pros

There’s no sugarcoating it—wallpaper removal and wall preparation are labour-intensive jobs. Many things can go wrong, from accidentally damaging the drywall to leaving adhesive residue that ruins your paint job. That’s why it’s always best to rely on trusted, professional painting services in Mississauga to handle these tasks.

At Handyman Connection, we’ve seen countless wallpaper and painting disasters that could have been avoided with professional expertise. Our team has years of experience tackling wallpaper removal and wall prep, ensuring a smooth, even surface that will make your new paint look flawless. We use efficient tools, proven techniques, and the highest-quality materials to provide superior results. When you trust us with your project, you’ll save yourself the stress, time, and potential mishaps of taking on these challenges alone.

Transform Your Home with Handyman Connection

Whether you’re dealing with outdated wallpaper or just craving a fresh look for your walls, Handyman Connection is here to help every step of the way. Removing wallpaper and achieving a smooth, polished paint job is no small feat, but with our professional services, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your walls are in expert hands.

From seamless wallpaper removal to expert wall preparation and painting services in Mississauga, we ensure your home makeover is done right the first time. Our team takes the time to understand your vision and works efficiently to bring it to life with precision and care. 

Give us a call today to start the transformation and discover why homeowners trust Handyman Connection for all their painting and home maintenance needs. Your dream walls are just a phone call away!