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cawrestlersmom Asked About 'Home Tips : Papering Over Existing Wallpaper'

Wallpaper over wallpaper on paneling

I am getting ready to wallpaper a bathroom in an older manufactured home. Right now there is some hideous wallpaper that was factory installed over paneling. I tried to peel it off, but i can't get it to budge. Would you recommend papering over it and how should I go about it?

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2 Answers

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Jay Somerset Answered:

Hello,

The answer depends on a few factors. If the wallpaper is textures, I wouldn't recommend papering over it because you'll be left with a bumpy, pockmarked finish that will look worse than the hideous paper you're trying to cover up. Same goes with vinyl wallpaper; wallpaper requires a porous surface, and vinyl is smooth, so it won't stick.

To test whether the wallpaper has vinyl, take a sponge and wet an area. f there is a darkening throughout the entire surface, there is no vinyl coating. You may also be able to flake off or rub out surface inks. With coated papers, the opposite results are to be expected.

If it's vinyl, you need to step back and try new ways to remove it. If it's not vinyl, you can wallpaper overtop--once you've prepped the area. Here's how:

Remove any loose paper areas first, then apply joint compound to any nail holes, seam areas, or other damaged spots. Sand these areas smooth after proper curing time (read directions on compound). The more time you spend filling holes, patching, smoothing, and sanding, the better the results.

Once you are finished your prep, apply a good quality primer/sealer over the entire surface. Now your wall is ready for new wallpaper.

As a side note, you can also paint over wallpaper using the same method.

Hope this helps.

Jay Somerset

Home Renovation Guide

http://blog.homerenovationguide.com

Posted 4 years ago

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cawrestlersmom Answered:

Thank you for the answer. I think this will help. When I tried to peel A corner off, I couldn't get it to budge. I think this stuff is on for life, too bad it's sooo ugly.