Lena Rivera
Painting over a wallpaper border can be a tricky task, as the seams and edges of the wallpaper may show through the paint. While removing the wallpaper is the ideal solution, it is not always possible without damaging the drywall. In such cases, it is recommended to use a primer to cover the pattern and ensure that the wallpaper border is properly sealed before painting. Some people suggest using an oil-based primer, while others recommend a shellac primer, especially if there is drywall compound involved. Additionally, techniques such as scoring the paper, using hot water or a steamer, and applying a filler or joint compound can help create a smooth surface before painting.
Characteristics and Values Table
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wallpaper Border Removal | Hot water and sponge, steamers, liquid fabric softener, scoring and spraying, paint burner |
| Priming | Oil-based primer, shellac primer, clear artist's gel acrylic medium |
| Filling | Joint compound, filler |
| Sanding | Light sanding, scoring |
| Painting | Use paint with primer |
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What You'll Learn
Use a steamer or hot water to remove the wallpaper
Using a steamer or hot water is an effective way to remove wallpaper. If you have more than one layer of wallpaper, the paint will eventually peel off, so it is best to remove the wallpaper first. You can use a handheld steamer, which is inexpensive and easy to use. Plug in the steamer and wait for the water to boil. Starting from the top of the wall, hold the steam plate on the wallpaper for a maximum of 30 seconds at a time. The steam will penetrate the wallpaper and loosen the adhesive paste. After steaming, test how easily the paper is removed. If it is not coming off easily, hold the steam plate on the surface again.
Alternatively, use hot water and a sponge. Soak the area around the wallpaper edges and wait a few minutes. You can also use a spray bottle to apply the hot water. The hot water will loosen the glue, and you can then use a scraper to peel off the wallpaper.
If using a steamer, be sure to protect the surrounding area, including any furniture and electrical outlets. Cover lights, switches, and sockets to prevent any damage.
Using a steamer or hot water is a simple and effective way to remove wallpaper, making it easier to paint the wall afterward.
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Sand the edges and seams
Sanding the edges and seams of your wallpaper border is an important step in preparing your walls for painting. It ensures better adhesion and helps create a smooth surface for a professional-looking finish. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Locate the edges and seams: Start by carefully examining your wallpaper border to identify the edges and seams. Look for any peeling, lifting, or loose fragments along these areas.
Clean the surface: Before you begin sanding, it's crucial to clean the walls to remove any dirt, dust, or grease. A damp cloth can be used to wipe down the surface, ensuring that the wall is free of debris.
Choose the right tools: Select the appropriate sandpaper or sanding block for the job. The goal is to dull any uneven surfaces and create a uniform texture. Fine-grit sandpaper is typically recommended for sanding walls to achieve a smooth finish without causing damage.
Start sanding: Gently sand the edges and seams of the wallpaper border. Use light pressure and smooth, even strokes to avoid creating grooves or indentations. Work systematically along the border, ensuring that you cover all the desired areas.
Address any imperfections: If there are any ridges, dried paint runs, or other imperfections along the edges and seams, focus your sanding efforts on those areas. Lightly sand until the surface is level and smooth.
Remove dust: Once you've finished sanding, it's important to remove the dust generated during the process. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the sanded areas, ensuring that the wall is clean and free of residue.
By following these steps, you will effectively sand the edges and seams of your wallpaper border, creating a well-prepared surface that will enhance the adhesion and overall appearance of your paint job. Remember to take your time and work carefully to achieve the best results.
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Apply a primer
Before applying a primer, it is important to prepare the surface of the wallpaper border. This includes removing any loose wallpaper by gently pulling at it with your fingers. If there are any holes in the wall from nails or picture hangers, fill them with a spackling compound and let it dry completely. It is also crucial to clean the walls with a diluted solution of trisodium phosphate (TSP) to remove dust, dirt, grease, or grime. Ensure the walls are only slightly damp during cleaning, as excess moisture can soften the adhesive and cause the wallpaper to loosen or bubble.
Once the wall is clean and dry, it's time to address any peeling edges or seams by reattaching loose fragments with a thin layer of wallpaper seam adhesive. Alternatively, use a putty knife to carefully lift and cut away these loose pieces, and then fill in the gaps with spackle. After applying spackle, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface, brushing from the top layer of wallpaper towards the lower piece. This process ensures that the border is even, and any ridges or hard edges are removed.
Now, you can apply the primer. It is recommended to use an oil-based or shellac primer to avoid the wallpaper from peeling. These primers sit on top of the paper and seal it, whereas water-based or latex primers can penetrate the surface and react with the adhesive, causing bubbling or warping. If you decide to use a water-based primer, ensure it is a primer sealer and not a bonding primer.
When applying the primer, use a roller for general coverage and a brush for specific areas that need more attention. Start by cutting in the corners and edges with a brush, then switch to a roller for the larger areas. Ensure you apply the primer thinly and evenly across the wallpaper border. It is crucial to maintain proper ventilation during this process, as primers can emit strong odours. Leave the primer to dry overnight, and then inspect it carefully in the morning. If there are any imperfections, apply a second coat of primer to ensure complete coverage.
After priming, you may need to re-mud and sand any areas that still have ridges or rough spots. This step is important to do after priming, as the drywall mud can activate the paper and glue if applied directly to unprimed wallpaper, causing bubbling and loosening. Once you are satisfied with the smoothness of the surface, your wallpaper border is ready for painting.
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Use a filler
While it is always better to remove the wallpaper border before painting, it is not always feasible. In such cases, using a filler can help you achieve a smooth finish. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a filler to paint over a wallpaper border:
Prepare the Wall
Before you start filling, ensure that the surface of the wall around the border is flat and free of any loose wallpaper or glue residue. Use a scoring tool to create small holes in the wallpaper, then apply a wallpaper removal solution or hot water with a spray bottle. Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the adhesive. Gently remove any loose pieces with your fingers or a plastic scraper, being careful not to damage the wall.
Apply Primer
Once the wall is prepared, apply a thin coat of primer to the area. Use a roller for general coverage and a brush for specific spots. Pay close attention to the areas around the border, making sure to overlap the border by a few inches. Let the primer dry overnight and inspect it in the morning light to ensure no imperfections are showing through.
Fill Along the Border
After priming, it's time to use the filler. Carefully fill along the edge of the border at a right angle. Use a filling knife or a trowel to run the filler along the length of the border. You may need to do this a couple of times to ensure a smooth finish. The filler will help create an even surface and reduce the appearance of the ridge formed by the border.
Sanding and Final Touches
After the filler has dried, lightly sand the area to smooth out any rough spots or ridges. Use a fine-grit sanding block for this step. Once you are satisfied with the smoothness of the surface, you can proceed to paint. Apply your chosen paint colour, being generous with the amount to ensure sufficient coverage. For the best results, allow the paint to dry thoroughly before deciding if a second coat is needed.
Using these steps, you can effectively use a filler to paint over a wallpaper border. Remember to take your time, especially with the preparation steps, as they are crucial for achieving a professional-looking finish.
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Paint with your chosen colour
Painting over a wallpaper border is a good option if you are unable to remove the border. It is recommended to prime the wallpaper first to ensure that the pattern is covered. An oil-based primer is ideal, but not necessary unless you already have it on hand.
Once you have applied the primer, you can proceed to paint over the wallpaper border with your chosen colour. Make sure the paint you choose is suitable for the surface you are painting on. For example, if you are painting over a wallpaper border that is on top of latex paint, you will need to allow enough time for the paint to cure before applying the new coat.
If there are any seams or edges that are still visible after priming, you can lightly sand them or use a filler to even out the surface. You can also use a paintable border to cover the wallpaper border and then paint the entire wall, including the border, in the same colour. This can give the room a subtle architectural feel.
After you have painted over the wallpaper border, let it dry completely. If the wallpaper shows through or the paint starts to peel, you may need to apply another coat of paint or primer.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can paint over a wallpaper border. However, it is always better to remove the wallpaper if possible.
You can use hot water and a sponge to soak the area around the wallpaper edges. You can also use liquid fabric softener or a steamer to remove the wallpaper. If the wallpaper is glued, you can use a scoring tool to poke small holes in the paper, spray it with wallpaper removing solution, and then peel it off.
If you are unable to remove the wallpaper, you can paint over it. It is recommended to use a primer first to ensure that the pattern is covered. You can then paint with your chosen colour.
To prevent the wallpaper edges from showing, you can use a filler and sand the seams lightly before painting. Alternatively, you can add a piece of moulding to cover the edges. You can also use clear artist's gel acrylic medium to seal the edges and prevent bleed.
