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Painting Versus Wallpapering

Author: Nancy Dewitt
by Nancy Dewitt
Posted: May 23, 2014

The walls of a home, many interior designers believe, can effectively transform any space. This change in aesthetics can be easily achieved with the use of paint or wallpaper. The application of a light color, for instance, can make a dramatic room more welcoming and soft. An expansive room, on the other hand, can feel more homey with striking patterns or a dark wallpaper choice.

There are upsides and downsides in using wallpaper or paint. There are equally many factors to consider such as cost, ease of application, versatility, even how each would affect your family’s lifestyle. Whichever you end up choosing, your walls are sure to look phenomenal as you add these beautifying elements.

It is important to begin your remodeling task by prepping the walls. You need to consider how long it will take to prep a wall as you take the time to choose between a wallpaper and paint. If the project is beginning with a bare wall, then there is no need to fuss so much about prepping it. If, however, the walls have an existing finish, then you really need to learn a few things –

When Wallpapering…

If you are removing existing wallpapers, then prepare for a tedious task ahead. You will need the right set of tools as well as a lot of patience to finish such a task. You can use chemicals to strip wallpaper or if you fear the side effects that such bring, then you can always rely on stripping tools.

Be cautious in using stripping tools or you could end up damaging the walls. Ask for tips from any home improvement store regarding specific instructions in applying the new wallpaper.

Wallpapers come in a huge spectrum of varieties and colors. They are known to be very durable, with many modern wallpapers being able to hold up to high traffic, the wear and tear brought about by children, and they are even easy to scrub!

When Painting…

When you choose to paint over damaged walls, then have the imperfections prepped with a spackle. Let this dry for no less than 24 hours. Apply the primer in advance so that the wall preparation becomes a lot easier. Compared to wallpapering, you will observe that it takes less time to prepare the walls when you decide to paint instead.

Paint, just like wallpapers, have hundreds of varieties and colors for you to choose from. In addition to these, you can also pick from different sheens and glosses. Depending on the finish paint or sheen are areas that can have easy application. High gloss to semi-gloss paints are great for exterior doors and trimmings.

Eggshell, satin and at times, flat sheens are best used indoors. Be cautious when using paint on hit, scraped, damaged or chipped off walls because it will be needful to do repairs first.

The Pricing Difference

Paint and wallpaper price range can be anywhere from low to high end for both. Generally, wallpaper is pricier when bought in rolls, more so when you hire someone to install them for you. Paint can get a little cheaper and you would only need just a few supplies to apply it. It is so easy to do the painting job even if you have not done it in the past.

If you are really under a stringent budget, then it is more advisable to buy inexpensive wallpaper and for you to install it on your own. Most of the time, the installation costs comprise a huge chunk of the entire bill. As to paint, high end faux paint finishes or textured paints can be costly especially when you hire professionals to apply them.

Paint or wallpaper, this world is easy to customize. Just decide whether you want to be bold or subtle and there is a design that is waiting for you.

About the Author

Are you someone that appreciates old-styled homes and furniture? Are you fascinated by the grace and timeless beauty of the pieces that have been made many years ago?

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Author: Nancy Dewitt

Nancy Dewitt

Member since: Dec 10, 2013
Published articles: 40

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