Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: Painting wallpaper vs. tearing it down

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Painting and Wallcoverings
Remote Name: 193.252.197.9
Date: 16 Feb 2002
Time: 07:52 AM

Comments

Generally, we do not recommend painting over wallpaper for the reasons you describe: eventually they peel. Permanently covering up the seams can also be tricky. Plus, some wallpapers will absorb moisture when you paint them, causing them to bubble or delaminate. Stripping wallpaper is a tedious, messy job. However, if the areas are manageable, then we recommend doing it right, which means stripping it and spackling over any damaged areas.

Once the walls are stripped, you can use any quality primer to seal the wall prior to painting it. If there is crayon underneath, you can use an oil-based primer or a primer with high hiding properties that will effectively cover up any markings. Good luck!

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