Wallpapers are often used in enhancing the look of interior walls instead of painting them. Over the years you might feel that the great looking wallpaper is a boring one. Sometimes its look might become dull. So what you do in such cases. How about peeling, scrapping, and getting into the entire process of wallpaper removal followed by painting the wall? Well, that looks likes a tedious job. Especially when you need a quick fix, this is not the solution. How about directly painting it, definitely a good idea! Tips for painting over wallpaper given below are easy and will help you have a good looking wall surface.
A Step by Step Guide
Prepare the Surface
Before you start, the tips of the paper that are hanging loose or those areas where the wallpaper is peeling need to be removed. Make sure you remove all these, else they might come off later. Check if all the seams are well secured. Use glue or wallpaper paste to stick any large tears in wallpaper. Now clean the entire surface with a sponge or dust cloth.
Test the Wallpaper
When the surface is ready and completely dry, check if the areas of wallpaper which you glued are stuck properly to the wall. If the wallpaper is still coming off, you don't have any option but to strip it off using a steamer or solution.
Cover the Objects
Make sure you take off the light fixtures and any decorative items that are hung on this wall. Also those items that can't be removed like switches, must be masked with painter's tape. Lay rough sheets of plastic on the floor. This will ensure that the interior painting job is done neatly without any mess.
Prime the Surface
Remember that this is one of the most important tips. You must prime the surface before working on it. You can check the paint shops to buy the best primer for creating a nice base. Tips for buying a good primer include opting for a tinted one. This is available at almost the same price and using this will help you achieve a better cover up of dark-colored wallpapers. You will need two coats of primers, especially for those wallpapers with dark print or print bleeds. Wait till the primer dries off completely.
Painting the Wallpaper
So, here's the exciting part. One instruction is to paint according to the existing surface. This means, if the wallpaper surface is smooth, you can simply paint it and have a smooth looking wall. But if the surface is rough, you need to have textured paint. Faux painting is the best way to paint a rough surface and give it a nice textured look. While you paint, make sure to wait between application of coats so that the color thoroughly dries off. Apply the 2-3 coats to have the desired color of the surface.
While many interior designing experts suggest this as a wrong practice, you can consult wall painting professionals to know whether your wallpaper can look good when painted. Like some plastic coated wallpapers can't be painted over and fabric-type wallpapers can be easily painted. With these instructions given to get the best look and precautions like checking the type of wallpaper, you can start off with your home improvement project. All the best!
