Home Decor, How To, Product

Wallpaper vs paint: Pros and cons

Updated On : 22 Jan 2023

Which is the better option: paint or wallpaper? Before you decide which to choose, let’s review the pros and cons of each so you can make up your mind as to which way to go.

Wallpaper vs paint: Pros and cons

In this modern era, there are a lot of new interior decorating trends that are hitting the market. One of these trends is the use of wallpaper over painting each room. Many homeowners today are choosing to use wallpaper over painting their rooms.

Whether you’re looking to shake up your home decor or trying to make a quick change, nothing refreshes a room like a new coat of paint. Whereas, wallpaper can add a certain element to your home and can help you to achieve that ‘wow’ factor in your home. But which is the better option: paint or wallpaper? Before you decide which to choose, let’s review the pros and cons of each so you can make up your mind as to which way to go.

PROS AND CONS OF WALLPAPER VS PAINT

Wallpaper vs paint: Pros and cons

APPLICATION OF WALLPAPER VS PAINT

When it comes to application, painting is generally the simpler of the two options. Wallpaper can be tricky to apply evenly, especially if you’re working with a large area. It’s also important to make sure that the pattern lines up correctly, which can be difficult to do on your own. The application of wallpaper is a job best left to professionals. It is an elaborate process that requires patience and a great deal of time. 

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Though with paint, you simply need to apply an even coat to the surface, but it takes days to complete one room. Paint can also be applied to more textured surfaces than wallpaper, which generally requires a smoother surface for proper adhesion. In a day or two, a small room can be painted. Many imperfections can be covered with paint, such as holes, uneven walls, and replastering.

Wallpaper vs paint: Pros and cons

COST OF WALLPAPER VS PAINT

There is no denying that wallpaper can be costly. But so can paint! When you factor in the cost of primer, paint, and other materials, the price tag for a paint job can quickly add up. And don’t forget about the cost of labour. If you hire a professional to paint your walls, the cost will be even higher. So wallpaper or paint: which is cheaper in the long run?

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It depends on the quality of the materials you use and the amount of time and labour you’re willing to put into the project. If you choose high-quality materials and hire a professional to install your wallpaper, it will likely cost more than painting. But if you opt for lower-quality materials and do the job yourself, wallpaper can be the cheapest option. The initial cost of wallpaper can be offset by the fact that it lasts longer than paint, making it a more reasonable and long-lasting option in the long run.

Wallpaper vs paint: Pros and cons

MAINTENANCE OF WALLPAPER VS PAINT

It is not unusual for the paint to scratch off, and wallpaper to strip, no matter how high the quality. But when it comes to cleaning, wallpapers are the most cost-effective option when compared to paint. It is more durable and can last for many years with proper care. It is also easier to clean than paint. You can simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust. However, wallpaper can be more difficult to repair if it becomes damaged.

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Paint, on the other hand, is more difficult to maintain. It needs to be repainted every few years to keep it looking fresh. Paint is also more susceptible to damage than wallpaper. If it becomes chipped or scratched, it can be difficult to repair. Paint is also more difficult to clean than wallpaper. You may need to use a stronger cleaner to remove dirt and stains.

Wallpaper vs paint: Pros and cons

REMOVABILITY OF WALLPAPER VS PAINT

Traditional wallpaper can be removed without damaging your walls, depending on the type of wallpaper and how it was applied. If you no longer want wallpaper on your walls, you can remove it with some effort. Paint removal is a more extensive process than wallpaper removal. However, wallpaper removal is less messy because there is less dirt flying around during the process.

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The process of painting your walls starts with removing the old paint, which can be done by scraping, stripping, and sanding the surface. You’ll need to put in some extra effort to clean up once you’re finished with these steps, but it will be worth it in the end to have smooth walls that you can paint over again. Keep in mind that this process usually requires labour, so it might be a good idea to hire someone to help you out.

Wallpaper vs paint: Pros and cons

DURABILITY OF WALLPAPER VS PAINT

Wallpaper is generally more durable than paint, especially if it is well-made and applied correctly. It is also more resistant to fading, staining, and other types of damage. Wallpaper can easily last for about 10-15 years on average. Wallpaper has this major advantage. It can be installed once and then you don’t have to worry about changing it again for a long time. It may be required to repair and repaint walls that have been damaged, scuffed, or hit.

Wallpaper vs paint: Pros and cons

VARIETY OF WALLPAPER VS PAINT

Gone are the days when just plain or floral designs of wallpapers were there in the market. Now, wallpaper can be applied in a variety of patterns, such as landscape, flocked, and textures, which gives it a wide range of design possibilities. If you choose wallpaper with the ‘Pantone colour of 2023, Viva Magenta,’ it will make your home appear more lively.

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Paint, on the other hand, is typically applied in a single colour with a smooth finish as colours don’t always mix well to produce a majestic look. It’s not a good idea to use random colours on your walls because they might look graceless and unprofessional. The possibilities with paint are endless, however, it will take a lot of effort to create them and it will cost quite a bit to have all the shades.

Wallpaper vs paint: Pros and cons

APPEARANCE AND FINISH

For one, wallpaper is available in a far wider range of colours, patterns, and textures than paint. This gives you much more flexibility in terms of creating a unique and custom look for your space. Wallpaper can also be used to create a more textured look, whereas paint generally provides a smoother finish. Painting designs and patterns onto your interior walls to add colour and life to your home requires spending too much time on a single project.

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The key to a successful paint job or wallpaper installation is the diligence of the person executing the project. A wide variety of colours and finishes are available to choose from, so it is important to be careful in choosing the right one for the job at hand. With care and attention to detail, a great finish can be achieved.

WALLPAPER VS. PAINT: WHICH IS THE BETTER OPTION FOR YOUR HOME? (THE FINAL VERDICT)

Wallpaper and paint are both great ways to decorate and redecorate your home. The difference between the two is that wallpaper is a long-term solution and paint is a short-term solution. When it comes to choosing between wallpaper or paint, it is a choice based on personal preference. But, there are a few things to consider when deciding whether to paint or wallpaper your home. Wallpaper can be more durable than paint, meaning it may not need to be replaced as often. Wallpaper also has the advantage of being easier to clean than paint. Another thing to consider is the look you want to achieve. Paint can provide a more uniform look, while wallpaper can add texture and interest to a room with the variety of designs and patterns available today. India Circus has a plethora of wallpaper designs from geometric prints, and traditional styles to rustic or nature prints that will just glorify and liven up your home for the better.

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Wallpaper and paint are two popular choices for finishing the walls of a room. We hope that you were able to learn a few things about the advantages and disadvantages of which of these two materials is best for your home renovation project.

FAQS ABOUT WALLPAPER VS PAINT PROS AND CONS

HOW CAN I REMOVE THE WALLPAPER EASILY?

Removing old wallpaper can be a pain, but it’s worth taking the time to do it right so you don’t damage your walls. Using a utility knife, score the wallpaper to make small holes and remove it properly. Once the paper is wet, use a wallpaper solvent or water to wet it. Be careful not to damage the drywall beneath the wallpaper when you peel it away with a putty knife or scraper.

ARE WALLPAPERS WASHABLE?

Wallpapers are made from different materials, so their washability varies. Some wallpapers can be washed with a mild soap and water solution, while others may require special cleaners. If you’re unsure about whether or not your wallpaper is washable, it’s always best to check with the manufacturer.