Can You Put Wallpaper Over Wallpaper

7 Steps For How Can You Put Wallpaper Over Wallpaper

Can You Put Wallpaper Over Wallpaper? The answer is yes- It’s doable, but removing the old layer is usually best for a smooth finish.

However, there are several factors to consider before diving in. Here’s what I discovered during my experiments.

Step 1: Inspect and Repair Existing Wallpaper

Start by inspecting your current wallpaper:

Check for Damage: Look for bumps, cracks, or peeling edges.
Repair Any Issues: Fill holes with spackle and smooth with sandpaper. Apply seam sealer where necessary.

Step 2: Prepare the Room and Walls

Preparation is key:

Turn Off Electricity: Since you’ll be working near outlets, turn off power to avoid any accidents.
Remove Obstacles: Take down nails, outlet covers, and light switch covers.
Lay Down Tarps: Protect your floors from drips when cleaning.
Clean the Walls: Mix warm water with a tablespoon of liquid dish soap in a bucket. Use a sponge to lightly rinse the walls without soaking them this prevents the peeling of the old paper.

Step 3: Prime the Walls

Priming helps with adhesion:

Apply Primer: Use a commercial wallpaper primer and roll it onto the walls evenly.
Let It Dry: Follow manufacturer instructions for drying time before proceeding.

Step 4: Hang Your New Wallpaper

Now comes the fun part of applying your new wallpaper!

Prepare Your Wallpaper: Depending on your choice (pre-pasted or unpasted), prepare accordingly.
Align Your First Strip: Start at a level point on your wall and position the top of your new wallpaper against it.
Smooth It Down: Gradually smooth down each strip as you peel off more backing or apply adhesive.
Use a Seam Roller: This helps prevent seam peeling and ensures good adhesion.

Step 5: Smooth Out Bubbles

Bubbles can occur during application:

Use a Smoothing Tool: Gently push air bubbles toward the edges using a smoothing tool or your fingers.
Puncture if Necessary: For stubborn bubbles, use a pin to puncture them gently and smooth them out again.

Step 6: Trim Excess Wallpaper

Once all panels are in place:

Trim Edges: Use a sharp utility knife to cut away excess material at the bottom and around outlets for a clean finish.

Step 7: Final Smoothing

After trimming, ensure everything adheres well:

Final Check: Go over seams and edges with a smoothing tool or cloth to secure everything in place.

Factors to Consider Before You Put Wallpaper

Before going into the process, it’s crucial to assess a few key factors that will influence your project.

1. Type of Wallpaper

Understanding the type of wallpaper you’re dealing with is essential:

Non-Coated vs. Vinyl-Coated: Non-coated wallpapers can generally be wallpapered over, while vinyl-coated wallpapers should not be layered upon because they are nonporous. If you try to apply new wallpaper over vinyl, it may not adhere properly and could lead to mold growth underneath. To check if your wallpaper is coated, rub a damp sponge on a small corner; if it darkens, it’s non-coated.

2. Condition of the Existing Wallpaper

Inspect the current wallpaper for any signs of damage:

Cracks or Peeling: If your wallpaper is cracked or peeling, it’s best to remove it completely before applying new wallpaper. Old wallpapers in humid areas like bathrooms may harbor mold, so consider removing them for a clean slate.

3. Color and Pattern of the Old Wallpaper

The existing color and pattern can affect the appearance of your new wallpaper:

Dark or Bold Patterns: If your current wallpaper is very dark or has a bold pattern, it might show through the new layer. To test this, hold a sample of your new wallpaper against the wall to see if the old design is visible.

4. Number of Layers

It’s generally not advisable to wallpaper over more than one existing layer:

Single Layer: If there’s only one layer of wallpaper that meets all the considerations mentioned above, you can proceed with layering.
Multiple Layers: If unsure about how many layers are present, cut into the wallpaper slightly to check.

How Many Times Can You Put Wallpaper Over Wallpaper?

The short answer is: it depends. In my experience, you can put wallpaper over wallpaper, but I recommend limiting it to one additional layer. Here’s why:

Adhesion Issues: Each layer can weaken the adhesive bond. When I tried to add a second layer over an already layered wall, I noticed that it didn’t stick as well, leading to peeling.
Weight Considerations: More layers mean more weight. This can cause the wallpaper to sag or even fall off over time.
Aesthetic Concerns: Multiple layers can create an uneven surface that may show through the new wallpaper. I learned this the hard way when I tried to cover a heavily textured wall with another layer it didn’t look great!

So, if you’re considering layering, make sure the existing wallpaper is in good condition and only add one new layer.

What You Will Need Before Putting Wallpaper Over Wallpaper?

Gathering the right materials will make your project smoother:

Stepladder
Spackle (for repairs)
Sandpaper
Wallpaper sealer
Wallpaper primer
Liquid dish soap
Sponge
Putty knife
Bucket
Wallpaper brush or rollers
Painter’s tape
New wallpaper (preferably thicker for better coverage)

Things to Do

✔️Clean Walls Thoroughly
✔️Use Wallpaper Primer
✔️Repair Damages First
✔️Choose Quality Wallpaper
✔️Align Strips Carefully

Things Not to Do

❌Skip Surface Preparation
❌Ignore Existing Damage
❌Use Thin Wallpaper
❌Overlap Seams Excessively
❌Rush the Process

Additional Precautions While Adding Wallpaper Over One Another

Do You Have to Remove Old Wallpaper Before Putting Up New?

While it’s not always necessary to remove old wallpaper before adding new layers, doing so often yields better results:

Better Adhesion: New wallpaper adheres better directly to walls than layers of old paper.
Prevent Mold Growth: Old wallpapers can harbor mold or mildew, especially in humid areas like bathrooms.
Smoother Finish: Removing old layers ensures a better aesthetic outcome.

From my experience, taking the time to remove old wallpaper often leads to a more professional-looking finish!

Can You Put Self-Stick Wallpaper Over Wallpaper?

Absolutely! Self-stick wallpaper (also known as peel-and-stick) is a fantastic option for those looking for an easy update. Here’s what I’ve found:

Surface Condition: The existing wallpaper must be smooth and well-adhered. If there are any loose edges or bubbles, take the time to fix those first.
Texture Matters: Self-stick wallpapers work best on flat surfaces. If your existing wallpaper has a heavy texture, you might see that texture through the new layer.
Test Patch: Before committing to the entire wall, apply a small piece of self-stick wallpaper in an inconspicuous area to see how well it adheres.

In my projects, using self-stick wallpaper has been a game changer it’s so easy to apply and remove if needed!

Can You Paint Over Wallpaper?

This is another common question I’ve encountered: Can you paint over wallpaper? The answer is yes, but there are some important considerations:

Type of Wallpaper: Non-coated wallpapers are generally easier to paint over than vinyl-coated ones. I once tried painting over vinyl wallpaper, and it didn’t adhere well at all.
Preparation Steps: Clean the surface thoroughly before painting. I like to use a mild detergent solution to remove any dust or grease.
Potential Risks: Painting can lead to bubbling if moisture gets trapped underneath the wallpaper. To mitigate this risk, consider applying a primer designed for use on wallpaper before painting.

From my experience, painting over wallpaper can be a quick way to change up your space just ensure you’re using the right materials!

Wallpaper Over Textured Wallpaper

Yes! You can put wallpaper over textured wallpaper, but it requires careful consideration:

Light Textures: If your existing wallpaper has a light texture, you’re in luck! The new wallpaper will likely adhere well without any issues.
Heavy Textures: For heavily textured wallpapers, you might encounter problems with adhesion and appearance. When I tried this once with an embossed pattern underneath, the new paper didn’t lay flat and showed all the bumps.

Wallpaper Over Backing Paper

Yes! You can put new wallpaper over backing paper as long as it’s in good condition:

Check for Damage: Make Sure that the backing paper isn’t peeling or damaged before proceeding.
Smooth Surface: The backing paper should provide a smooth base for your new wallpaper.

In my experience, backing paper can help improve adhesion if it’s still intact and secure.

Can You Put Wallpaper Over Wallpaper on Ceilings?

Yes! You can put wallpaper over existing layers on ceilings too:

Weight Considerations: Ensure that the existing ceiling surface is stable enough to support additional weight.
Smooth Surfaces Preferred: Textured ceilings should be smoothed out first for best results.
Lightweight Options: Use lighter wallpapers designed specifically for ceilings; they are less likely to sag.

If you ask me Can You Put Wallpaper Over Wallpaper, the answer is quite simple! yes if you follow my steps properly.

I’ve had great success applying wallpaper on ceilings just make sure you’re using materials designed for that purpose.

Read Also: How To Clean Luxury Vinyl Plank

Conclusion

You put wallpaper over wallpaper! However, it requires careful consideration of several factors including existing conditions, type of materials used, and proper preparation techniques.

From my personal experience, Can You Put Wallpaper Over Wallpaper? Taking these steps seriously has made all the difference in achieving beautiful results in my home decor projects!

If you’re looking for an easy update or want to try something bold and new, layering wallpapers can be an exciting adventure in home design.

FAQs About Can You Put Wallpaper Over Wallpaper?

Wallpapering over wallpaper can be done, but it may lead to adhesion issues, bubbling, or peeling if the existing wallpaper is damaged or if there are multiple layers.

You can cover wallpaper by painting over it, applying new wallpaper, or using fabric or paneling to create a new look without removal.

Yes, removable wallpaper can be applied over existing wallpaper as long as the surface is smooth and the old wallpaper is in good condition.

It’s generally better to remove old wallpaper for better adhesion and a smoother finish, especially if the existing paper is damaged or textured.

Bubbling can occur due to trapped air, moisture, or inadequate adhesive application during the installation process.

To prevent peeling edges, ensure proper surface preparation, use high-quality adhesive, and press down firmly on the edges during application.

Yes, gently puncture the bubble with a pin and smooth it out from the center outward using a smoothing tool or your fingers to eliminate air pockets.

Yes, Can You Put Wallpaper Over Wallpaper? It’s possible, but it’s usually recommended to remove the old wallpaper first for a smoother finish and better adhesion of the new layer.

Can You Put Wallpaper Over Wallpaper | 7 Quick Steps

7 Steps For How Can You Put Wallpaper Over Wallpaper