Can you use wallpaper on textured walls?
Yes, you can use wallpaper on textured walls, but it requires thorough preparation. You must smooth the texture, often with a primer and skim coat, or choose a thicker, textured wallpaper designed to hide imperfections. Proper prep ensures adhesion and a professional finish.
Applying wallpaper directly to a textured wall, like popcorn ceilings or heavily embossed drywall finishes, is generally not recommended for a professional-looking result. The texture will show through most wallpapers, creating an uneven surface that detracts from the pattern and finish. Moreover, the adhesive may not bond properly to the uneven surface, leading to peeling or bubbling over time.
However, this doesn’t mean textured walls are a complete barrier to wallpaper. With the right preparation, you can achieve a smooth, seamless finish. The key is to either level the wall surface or select a wallpaper that can accommodate or mask the existing texture.
Methods for wallpapering textured walls
The most reliable method for wallpapering textured walls involves preparing the surface to be as smooth as possible. This typically means filling and sanding any imperfections, followed by applying a primer or a specialized high-build primer. For severe textures, a skim coat of joint compound (drywall mud) may be necessary. This process creates a new, smooth canvas for your wallpaper.
An alternative, albeit less ideal for a flawless finish, is to use a thicker, more durable wallpaper. Vinyl-coated or fabric-backed wallpapers, particularly those with a subtle texture themselves, can sometimes mask minor wall textures. Peel-and-stick wallpapers designed for renters or DIYers often have a thicker material that can hide some imperfections better than traditional pasted wallpaper. However, even these will likely show significant texture underneath.
For heavily textured walls, like those with a stucco or plaster finish, or significant popcorn ceilings, smoothing is almost always the best approach. You can use a putty knife or scraper to remove loose material, then apply joint compound in thin layers, sanding between coats until smooth. Once dry, seal the surface with a good quality primer. This multi-step process is crucial for ensuring the wallpaper adheres correctly and looks its best.
When is surface preparation essential for textured walls?
Surface preparation is essential for textured walls when you desire a smooth, professional finish that showcases the wallpaper’s pattern and texture. If your wall has a moderate to heavy texture, such as orange peel, knockdown, or popcorn finishes, skipping prep will result in visible imperfections. The wallpaper will conform to the texture, making the pattern appear distorted and the overall look unprofessional.
It’s also essential if you’re using a thin or light-colored wallpaper. These materials offer little to no ability to hide underlying textures. Conversely, if you’re using a very thick, heavily embossed wallpaper that closely mimics a textured surface, you might get away with minimal prep for minor textures. However, even in such cases, a light sanding and priming can significantly improve adhesion and longevity.
Choosing the right wallpaper for textured surfaces
When attempting to wallpaper over texture, especially if you’ve done minimal prep, selecting the right wallpaper is critical. Opt for thicker, more substantial materials. Vinyl wallpapers are durable and can often hide minor imperfections better than paper-based options. Fabric-backed vinyl offers even more opacity and a luxurious feel, potentially masking light textures.
Peel-and-stick wallpapers, especially those with a matte finish and a bit of thickness, can also be a good choice for DIYers tackling textured walls. Their adhesive is often forgiving, and the material can sometimes bridge small inconsistencies. However, be realistic: these will still struggle with deep textures.
Avoid thin, delicate, or highly patterned wallpapers if you’re not going to thoroughly prep the wall. Thin papers will highlight every bump and groove, while intricate patterns can look jumbled when distorted by an uneven surface. Always consider the weight and opacity of the wallpaper in relation to the texture of your wall.
How to prep textured walls for wallpaper
The most effective way to prep textured walls for wallpaper is to create a smooth surface. Start by cleaning the walls thoroughly to remove any dust, grease, or grime. For popcorn ceilings or heavily textured drywall, you may need to gently scrape off any loose or flaking material.
Next, apply a skim coat of joint compound (drywall mud) over the entire surface. Use a wide putty knife or a drywall trowel to apply thin, even layers. Allow each layer to dry completely and sand it smooth with fine-grit sandpaper (120-220 grit). Repeat this process until the wall is as smooth as glass. For less severe textures, a high-build primer might suffice after light sanding.
Once the wall is smooth and all dust from sanding has been removed, apply a high-quality primer. A good primer seals the surface, provides a uniform base for the adhesive, and prevents the wallpaper from sticking too firmly to the compound, which can make future removal difficult. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions before hanging your wallpaper.
Wallpapering Textured Walls: A Comparison
| Wall Texture Type | Will Wallpaper Work (with prep)? | Critical Condition for Success |
|---|---|---|
| Light Orange Peel | Yes | Thin wallpaper may show subtle texture; thicker vinyl or primer is recommended. |
| Heavy Orange Peel / Knockdown | Yes | Skim coating and priming are essential for a smooth finish. |
| Popcorn Ceiling | Yes | Complete removal or a skim coat is required; thick wallpaper may hide minor remnants. |
| Embossed Drywall (e.g., Spanish Lace) | Yes | Sanding and a high-build primer are usually sufficient. |
| Stucco / Plaster | Yes | Thorough smoothing and sealing with primer are crucial. |
FAQ
Can I just wallpaper over popcorn ceilings?
It’s highly discouraged to wallpaper directly over popcorn ceilings without preparation. The texture will show through, and the adhesive may not bond properly. You should either remove the popcorn texture or apply a skim coat of joint compound to create a smooth surface before wallpapering.
Will peel-and-stick wallpaper hide wall texture?
Peel-and-stick wallpaper can hide minor textures better than traditional wallpaper due to its thicker material. However, it will likely not conceal significant or deep textures effectively. For best results, even with peel-and-stick, some level of surface smoothing is recommended.
How much texture can wallpaper hide?
The amount of texture wallpaper can hide depends heavily on the wallpaper’s thickness and opacity. Thicker, vinyl, or fabric-backed wallpapers can mask slight imperfections. However, any significant texture will almost always show through, especially with thinner wallpapers.
