Can you wallpaper over wallpaper?
Yes, you can wallpaper over existing wallpaper if the old paper is securely adhered, completely smooth, and not vinyl, foil, or heavily textured. Proper preparation, including thorough cleaning, minor repairs, and applying a quality wallpaper primer, is crucial for any chance of a successful outcome.
You can wallpaper over existing wallpaper, but it’s not always the best approach. Success hinges entirely on the condition of the old wallpaper and meticulous preparation. If the existing wallpaper is peeling, bubbling, or heavily textured, attempting to wallpaper over it will likely result in a poor, unprofessional finish. The new wallpaper will mirror any imperfections beneath it, leading to an undesirable look. Additionally, certain types of wallpaper, like vinyl or heavily embossed papers, create a surface that new adhesive struggles to bond with effectively.
The primary concern is ensuring a smooth, stable substrate for the new wallpaper. If the old paper is firmly in place, completely dry, and free of damage, it can serve as a base. However, even in these ideal conditions, removing the old wallpaper is generally recommended for the most durable and professional-looking result. Stripping the old paper allows you to inspect the drywall beneath for damage and ensure a clean surface for optimal adhesion of the new material.
When is it acceptable to wallpaper over old wallpaper?
It’s acceptable to wallpaper over old wallpaper only if several conditions are met. First, the existing wallpaper must be in excellent condition – no peeling edges, no bubbles, and no signs of water damage or mold. The surface needs to be completely smooth; any texture or pattern on the old wallpaper will show through the new layer, especially with lighter-weight papers. Think of it like painting over a bumpy wall; the bumps will still be visible. If the old wallpaper is a vinyl or foil type, or has a high-gloss finish, the new adhesive will struggle to adhere properly.
Second, the old wallpaper must be securely adhered to the wall. Any areas that are loose will lift under the weight and moisture of the new wallpaper and paste, creating bubbles and tears. If you have any doubts about the integrity of the existing paper, it’s always safer to remove it. The effort saved by not stripping can be quickly lost if the new wallpaper begins to fail.
What preparation steps are necessary before wallpapering over existing paper?
Thorough preparation is non-negotiable. Start by thoroughly cleaning the existing wallpaper. Use a mild detergent and water solution to remove any grease, grime, or mildew. Rinse the walls well and allow them to dry completely. Next, address any loose seams or bubbles. You can use wallpaper adhesive or a strong seam adhesive to re-stick any peeling edges or small bubbles. Press them down firmly and allow them to dry.
Once the walls are clean and any minor repairs are made, you need to create a suitable surface for the new wallpaper to adhere to. This usually involves applying a wallpaper primer or a high-quality sealant. A good primer will seal the surface, prevent the old wallpaper from becoming saturated with moisture from the new paste, and provide a better grip for the new adhesive. Ensure the primer is compatible with wallpaper adhesives and dries to a matte finish. Avoid primers that are too glossy, as they can also hinder adhesion.
What types of wallpaper are not suitable for wallpapering over?
Wallpapering over certain types of existing wallpaper is a recipe for disaster. Vinyl wallpapers, especially those with a high-gloss finish or a plastic coating, are notoriously difficult for new adhesives to bond with. The smooth, non-porous surface repels paste. Similarly, foil or metallic wallpapers often have a similar issue with adhesion. Heavily textured wallpapers, such as grasscloth, fabric-backed, or papers with raised patterns (like flocking), create an uneven surface that will telegraph through new wallpaper and prevent proper adhesion.
If the existing wallpaper is peeling, bubbling, or shows signs of water damage or mold, it must be removed. These issues will only be exacerbated by adding another layer of wallpaper. The moisture in the new wallpaper paste can further weaken the old adhesive, leading to more peeling and potential mold growth behind the new paper. Always err on the side of caution and remove problematic wallpaper.
How does wallpapering over affect future removal?
Wallpapering over existing wallpaper makes future removal significantly more challenging. When it’s time to redecorate again, you’ll essentially be dealing with multiple layers of wallpaper and adhesive, potentially bonded directly to the drywall. This can lead to a much more labor-intensive stripping process. You risk damaging the drywall as you try to pry off multiple layers. Tears can be larger and more frequent, requiring extensive patching and repair before you can even think about applying new paint or wallpaper.
In some cases, the old wallpaper adhesive might not be strong enough to hold two layers of paper, and the new wallpaper could start to peel away after a short period, taking the old paper with it. This creates a mess and requires a complete redo. Even if the wallpaper holds for a while, the increased thickness can make it harder for removal solutions to penetrate and break down the adhesives effectively.
What are the risks of wallpapering over existing wallpaper?
The primary risk is a compromised finish. Any imperfections in the existing wallpaper – bumps, seams, or texture – will likely show through the new layer, resulting in an unprofessional appearance. The new wallpaper might not adhere properly, especially if the old paper is vinyl, foil, or has a glossy finish. This can lead to bubbling or peeling shortly after application.
Another significant risk is moisture damage and mold growth. The added layer of paper can trap moisture between the layers, creating a perfect environment for mold and mildew to develop, especially in humid areas like bathrooms or kitchens. This can compromise the integrity of your walls and pose health risks. Furthermore, as mentioned, future removal becomes a much more difficult and potentially damaging process.
Should I always remove old wallpaper before applying new wallpaper?
Yes, you should always remove old wallpaper before applying new wallpaper if you want the best, longest-lasting, and most professional results. While it’s technically possible to wallpaper over old paper under specific, ideal conditions, it’s rarely the recommended method. Removing the old wallpaper ensures a clean, smooth, and stable surface for the new material, guaranteeing optimal adhesion and a flawless finish.
It also allows you to inspect the underlying drywall for any damage, moisture issues, or mold that might be hidden. Addressing these problems before wallpapering prevents them from worsening. While removing wallpaper can be time-consuming, the peace of mind and superior outcome are well worth the effort. It eliminates the risks associated with applying new paper over a potentially compromised surface and simplifies future renovations.
Wallpapering Over Existing Wallpaper: When It Works and When It Doesn’t
| Situation | Condition That Decides Success |
|---|---|
| Wallpapering over smooth, matte, securely adhered paper | Old paper is in perfect condition, free of damage, and shows no signs of peeling. It’s non-vinyl and not glossy. |
| Wallpapering over vinyl, foil, or high-gloss paper | This is not recommended. The new adhesive will not bond properly to the non-porous or slick surface. |
| Wallpapering over textured or embossed paper | This is not recommended. The texture will show through the new layer, and adhesion can be compromised. |
| Wallpapering over peeling or damaged paper | This is never acceptable. Loose sections will bubble, and underlying damage can worsen. |
| Wallpapering over paper with a shiny finish | This is generally not recommended. Shiny surfaces prevent proper adhesion. |
FAQ
What kind of primer should I use if I wallpaper over existing wallpaper?
Use a quality wallpaper primer or a universal gripping primer that dries to a matte finish. Ensure it’s designed to improve adhesion and seal the surface. Avoid high-gloss primers.
How long does wallpaper applied over old wallpaper typically last?
If done correctly over a suitable surface, it can last for years. However, it’s inherently less stable than wallpaper applied directly to a properly prepared wall, so failure is more likely over time, especially with changes in humidity.
Can I wallpaper over old wallpaper in a bathroom or kitchen?
It’s strongly discouraged. Bathrooms and kitchens have higher humidity, increasing the risk of moisture getting trapped between layers, leading to mold and mildew growth and adhesion failure.
Will I see the seams of the old wallpaper through the new wallpaper?
Yes, it’s highly likely, especially with lighter-weight or thinner new wallpapers. Even with priming, seams and any texture from the old paper can telegraph through.