Wallpaper can transform the look and feel of a room. However, before you start hanging wallpaper, it’s important to properly prepare the wall surface. An essential step in wallpaper installation is priming the walls first. But do you really need to use wallpaper primer?
What Is Wallpaper Primer?
Wallpaper primer is a specialty coating designed for use underneath wallpaper. It’s formulated to do a few key things:
- Seal the Wall Surface – Primer seals porous surfaces like drywall to create an even, uniform surface for wallpaper adhesion. This prevents bubbles or peeling edges.
- Improve Adhesion – The primer adds an extra layer of grip for the wallpaper adhesive to stick to. This adhesion prevents seams from separating or wallpaper from peeling off.
- Hide Surface Imperfections – Primer helps conceal small cracks, nail holes, or texture differences in the wall. This provides a smooth base for the wallpaper.
- Prevent Moisture Damage – Primer protects the drywall paper from moisture in the wallpaper adhesive. This prevents swelling or bubbling in the drywall.
So in short, wallpaper primer acts as a protective barrier between your wall and the wallpaper. It facilitates proper adhesion and creates the ideal surface for hanging wallpaper.
When Do You Need Wallpaper Primer?
In most cases, you’ll want to prime the walls before hanging wallpaper. Here are some of the main scenarios where wallpaper primer is recommended:
New Drywall
Fresh drywall needs primer before wallpapering. The drywall joints and screw holes will telegraph through the wallpaper if not properly sealed and concealed with primer. Priming evens out the porosity differences between the paper surface and joint compound.
Painted Walls
Previously painted walls should be primed before wallpapering. Primer will seal the existing paint and provide tooth for the wallpaper adhesive to grip. Glossy paints in particular need a coat of primer to turn them into an appropriate surface for wallpaper.
Textured Walls
Walls with a heavy texture like popcorn, knockdown, or orange peel need primer. The texture can interfere with proper wallpaper adhesion. Prime and skim coat textured walls to smooth them prior to wallpapering.
Absorbent Surfaces
Porous wall materials like plaster or cement board are very absorbent. They will suck moisture out of the wallpaper adhesive, resulting in poor bonding. Sealing them with primer prevents this moisture loss.
Dark Colors
Dark paints or surfaces should be primed with a white-pigmented primer. The white base prevents the dark color from showing at the seams or any gaps in the wallpaper.
Nicotine or Grease Stains
Heavy stains need a stain-blocking primer to prevent bleed-through. The isolating properties of stain-blocking primer prevent discoloration or odors from interfering with the wallpaper.
Mold or Mildew
Kill and seal any mold or mildew with an antimicrobial primer. This prevents future mold growth under the wallpaper from moisture in the adhesive.
When Can You Skip Wallpaper Primer?
There are a few instances where you may be able to get away without priming:
Prepped Walls
If the existing walls have been properly prepared and cleaned, they may not need priming. For example, you can probably skip priming over previously removed wallpaper if the adhesive was thoroughly scraped away.
Intact Vinyl Wallpaper
Adhering new wallpaper over intact, well-bonded vinyl wallpaper often doesn’t require primer. The vinyl provides a suitable surface for the new wallpaper.
High-Tack Adhesive
Some super sticky, high-tack wallpaper adhesives can sometimes grip without primer. But results aren’t guaranteed, so primer is still a safer bet.
Low-Moisture Adhesive
Special wallpaper pastes that contain very little water minimalize the need for priming. But again, you’re taking a risk of adhesion issues without a primer.
Painted Drywall
In ideal circumstances, you may be able to get away with no primer on freshly painted drywall. But any flaws in the paint or drywall make primer a necessity.
Confined Accent Wall
On a small accent wall with no seams, you may be able to skip primer and still get good wallpaper adhesion. But primer gives more assurance that the wallpaper will remain bonded long-term.
How to Prime Walls for Wallpaper
Use these steps for priming walls before hanging wallpaper:
1. Clean the Walls
Remove any dust, grease or existing wallpaper. Fill any holes and smooth textured walls if desired. Sand glossy paints dull.
2. Apply Primer
Use a high-quality wallpaper primer like Zinsser’s Shieldz or Roman’s R-35. Apply a uniform coat using a brush, roller or sprayer.
3. Let Dry
Allow the primer to fully dry as directed on the can. Drying times vary based on humidity.
4. Apply Second Coat
For the best results, apply two coats of primer to the walls. This seals the surface and creates a smooth foundation.
5. Install Wallpaper
Once fully dry, the primed walls are ready for wallpaper installation. Follow the wallpaper manufacturer’s directions.
Be sure to use wallpaper primer only, not standard primers and paints intended for other purposes. For problematic walls, an oil-based primer may offer the most effective sealing and holdout.
Tips for Priming Walls Before Wallpapering
Follow these tips and tricks for priming walls for the best wallpaper installation:
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions and do test patches to ensure compatibility of the primer with the specific wallpaper.
- Apply primer liberally and evenly while avoiding drips. Thin coats dry too quickly.
- Extend the primer 2-3 inches beyond the wallpaper installation area to prevent edge lifting.
- Prime ceiling and baseboards that will be covered in wallpaper. This prevents moisture damage.
- Opt for mold and mildew resistant primer in damp rooms like bathrooms.
- Wear protective gear like goggles, gloves and a respirator when priming.
- Ensure proper ventilation while applying primer and allow full drying time.
- Use an extension pole for cutting in high areas to avoid drips.
Taking the time to properly seal and prime the walls always pays off with easier wallpaper application and better long-term results.
Troubleshooting Wallpaper Peeling
Sometimes even with the best preparation, wallpaper can still peel or lose adhesion. Here are some of the common causes of wallpaper peeling and how to fix them:
Issue: Wallpaper developing curled seams or peeling edges.
Cause: Insufficient adhesive use or improper wall priming.
Solution: Ensure adequate adhesive coverage on wallpaper back and solid primer seal on wall. Re-paste loose edges and use seam roller to reactivate adhesive.
Issue: Wallpaper peeling off in full sheets.
Cause: Heavy moisture exposure or inadequate primer over glossy/oil paints.
Solution: Eliminate moisture source. Scrub walls with TSP, rinse, dry, prime with oil-based primer and re-hang wallpaper.
Issue: Wallpaper blistering or bubbling.
Cause: Trapped moisture behind wallpaper from shower steam, leaks, etc.
Solution: Carefully peel back wallpaper and allow wall to fully dry. Re-prime before new wallpaper. Find and eliminate moisture source.
Issue: Discolored staining or bleeding through wallpaper.
Cause: Wall nicotine stains, grease, crayon marks or other challenges not properly sealed off by primer.
Solution: Seal challenging stains with heavy-duty primer prior to new wallpaper. May require enzyme cleaner or solvent scrub first.
Proper prep and priming are key to prevent wallpaper adhesion problems down the road. But if peeling does occur, take steps to remedy the specific cause and redo prep work before hanging new wallpaper.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wallpaper Primer
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about priming walls before hanging wallpaper:
Do I Need to Prime Over Prepped Wallpaper Adhesive?
If all adhesive residue has been thoroughly scraped and removed, priming may not be necessary. For best results, apply a coat of primer to seal the wallboard paper exposed after adhesive removal.
Can I Use Regular Paint Primer?
Regular primer paint is not formulated to withstand wallpaper adhesive. Use an adhesive primer designed specifically for wallpaper projects.
How Long Does Wallpaper Primer Need to Dry?
Check the product directions, but wallpaper primer typically dries in about 1 hour. Allow at least 8 hours between coats, and 24 hours before wallpapering.
Should I Prime Just the Wallpaper Area?
Prime at least 2-3 inches beyond the wallpaper installation area. This feathered edge prevents lifting or peeling. Also prime over baseboards or trim that will be covered.
Is Oil or Latex Primer Better for Wallpaper?
Oil-based primers offer superior adhesion and sealing properties. But latex wallpaper primers like Shieldz work well for most jobs.
Can I Apply Wallpaper Over Unprimed Textured Walls?
You can skim coat textured walls with joint compound and then prime for wallpaper. Leaving texture under wallpaper risks poor bonding.
How Many Coats of Primer Are Needed?
Two coats of high-quality wallpaper primer applied according to manufacturer’s directions will provide optimal sealing and adhesion.
Always check the wallpaper and primer instructions and do test samples to confirm compatibility. With proper prime and prep, you can install wallpaper successfully.
Conclusion
Properly priming walls before hanging wallpaper is a best practice that yields great results. Wallpaper primer seals the wall surface, conceals flaws, and promotes adhesion of the wallpaper. While it may be possible to skip priming under certain ideal circumstances, using a quality wallpaper primer is usually recommended. Take time to clean walls, apply two coats of primer, and allow thorough drying time before hanging wallpaper. Follow the wallpaper and primer manufacturer’s directions for best practices. Put in the prep work with primer to prevent frustrating peeling or bubbling issues down the road. With a solid primed foundation, you can decorate with stylish, long-lasting wallpaper.
Can You Wallpaper Over Wallpaper?
Installing wallpaper over existing wallpaper is possible, but it takes some extra preparation to ensure success. Here is a look at the steps for wallpapering over wallpaper and tips for avoiding future issues.
Should You Wallpaper Over Wallpaper?
Wallpapering over existing wallpaper can be an attractive option versus removing old wallpaper. It saves time and avoids damage to the drywall underneath. However, there are some downsides:
- Existing seams may show through
- Uneven layers can create bumps
- Thicker surface impacts insulation and outlets
- Moisture issues if not properly prepped
- Challenging removal down the road
So assess the existing wallpaper carefully before deciding. Remove damaged or compromised layers first. With good prep work, wallpapering over wallpaper can be a viable approach.
Preparing Wallpaper for New Wallpaper
To ensure adhesion and prevent peeling or bubbling, take these steps to prep existing wallpaper:
- Remove loose sections and patch overlaying seams
- Sand down any bumps or raised edges
- Wash surface with TSP cleaner and rinse thoroughly
- Use adhesion promoter or oil-based primer on glossy or vinyl wallpaper
- Scrape away any protruding adhesive
- Seal surface with quality wallpaper primer
This provides a clean, sealed foundation for the new wallpaper.
Hanging New Wallpaper Over Existing
Follow typical wallpaper installation instructions, but with a few modifications:
- Use a heavy duty adhesive designed for double hanging
- Apply extra adhesive to edges to prevent lifting
- Use seam roller to flatten seams and activate adhesive
- Take care aligning first sheet to minimize overlapping seams
- Consider lining up new pattern to disguise old seams
Work carefully and methodically to create a smooth application. Use plenty of adhesive so the new wallpaper bonds tightly.
Tips for Wallpapering Over Wallpaper
Keep these tips in mind for a successful project:
- Only wallpaper over intact wallpaper in good condition
- Avoid installing more than two layers total
- Consider lightweight wallpapers to minimize buildup
- Use textured or patterned wallpaper to hide seams
- Take time filling any gouges and sanding bumps smooth
- Prime heavily with oil-based primer for best adhesion
- Maintain even adhesive thickness and drying times
With proper surface prep and ample adhesive, wallpapering over existing wallpaper can be an effective process. But removing old wallpaper first is the best way to guarantee positive results.
Troubleshooting Problems
If issues like peeling, bubbling or wrinkling arise, here are some troubleshooting tips:
Problem: Wallpaper buckling or seam lifting
Solution: Didn’t use enough adhesive. Carefully peel back, apply more adhesive, smooth with roller.
Problem: Overlapping seams visible
Solution: Didn’t align first sheet properly. May need to remove and start over.
Problem: Bumps or ridges showing through
Solution: Needed more sanding of old wallpaper surface before installing new.
Problem: Wallpaper pulling off in sheets
Solution: Surface not properly primed before installation. Remove layers, prime correctly and rehang.
Take time to properly prepare the existing wallpaper and use adequate adhesive to avoid these common issues. Removing old wallpaper first provides the best results long-term.
When to Remove Instead
Here are signs it’s best to remove old wallpaper rather than wallpaper over it:
- Wallpaper is torn, damaged or bubbled
- Layers are already very thick or uneven
- Old adhesive won’t scrape off cleanly
- Evidence of mold or mildew is present
- Moisture issues are suspected behind wallpaper
- Wallpaper has been painted over
Removing the existing layer provides a fresh start and removes potential risks.
Conclusion
It is possible to install new wallpaper directly over properly prepped existing wallpaper. This can save time compared to removal. However, take care to address seams, prime the surface, apply adequate adhesive and align sheets carefully. Removing old wallpaper first is still the best practice, when feasible. This eliminates variables and provides the ideal surface for flawless wallpaper adhesion. Consider the condition of the existing wallpaper and complexity of the project. In many cases, removal prior to new wallpaper yields optimal, long-lasting results.
Wallpaper Removal Tips and Tricks
If you’re ready to remove existing wallpaper and start fresh, proper technique makes the tedious task much easier. Here are helpful tips and tricks for safely and effectively removing old wallpaper.
Why Remove Wallpaper?
Wallpaper removal opens up a blank canvas for new wall finishes or decor. You may want to remove wallpaper because:
- It is damaged, peeling or bubbling
- Layers are building up too thick
- The pattern is outdated or distracting
- To address moisture issues behind wallpaper
- To paint the walls or install new wallpaper
- Old adhesive needs to be cleaned off properly
How to Remove Wallpaper
Here is a basic process for removing wallpaper:
- Score the surface – Perforate the wallpaper layer with a scoring tool. This allows the remover solution to penetrate.
- Apply remover solution – Spray or roll on remover like Dif Gel and allow time to soak in. Reapply frequently.
- Peel off wallpaper – Once saturated, carefully peel off paper backing. Change remover solution often.
- Remove residual backing – Use a scraper, putty knife or scrubber to remove any remaining paper or adhesive residue.
- Clean the wall – Wash walls with TSP or other cleaner to eliminate any leftover paste or residue.
- Rinse – Thoroughly rinse walls with clean water using a sponge. Allow to fully dry before priming or painting.
Use caution not to gouge the drywall surface. Take your time to safely remove all traces of the wallpaper and glue.
Wallpaper Remover Tips and Tricks
Follow these tips for the best results removing wallpaper:
- Use steamers or heat guns to soften adhesive for easier removal in small sections
- Opt for enzyme-based remover gels for less chemicals and fumes
- Wear goggles, gloves and masks to protect from dust and chemicals
- Keep rooms ventilated and work in manageable sections
- Use plastic to protect floors and furniture from water drips and remover
- Frequently change out dirty remover solution and scraping tools
- Rinse thoroughly to eliminate any residue that could impede adhesion of new finishes
- Prime and repair walls after drying to ready for next steps
- For difficult removal jobs, consider hiring a professional
Tricky Wallpaper Removal Situations
Here are tips for specific challenges when removing old wallpaper:
Thick Layers: Use scoring tool to deeply perforate each layer. Apply remover liberally on layers as you slowly work down to base wall.
Vinyl Coating: A steamer helps soften and peel off top vinyl layer. Use scraper for any remaining backing.
Bad Smoothing: Dip protruding edges in remover solution then scrape off with putty knife.
Painted Over: Chemical removers may not penetrate painted surface. Gently sand to abrade then reapply remover.
Residue Remains: Use coarse scrub pads, sandpaper or wire brushes to scour off leftover adhesive residue after wallpaper removal.
Mold Present: Kill mold with bleach solution. Dry completely then prime walls with antimicrobial primer prior to new finishes.
When to Call a Professional
Consider hiring a professional for:
- Wallpaper installed over 20 years ago that may