How do you cover painted over wallpaper?

To cover painted-over wallpaper, you essentially treat it like a regular wall, preparing it for a new coat of paint. Here's a step-by-step approach:

Steps to Cover Painted Over Wallpaper

The provided reference outlines a good general approach to painting over walls, including those with painted wallpaper. The main steps are:

Clean the Walls: Before starting, clean the painted-over wallpaper. This will remove any dust, dirt, or grime, which helps the new paint adhere properly.
Repair Any Damages: Inspect the wallpaper for any loose seams, bubbles, or tears. Repair these issues before you start painting. Use wallpaper paste or a filler to fix problems.
Tape off Molding and Trim: Use painter's tape to carefully cover all trim, baseboards, and molding to protect them from the paint.
Prime the Walls: It is crucial to use a primer. Priming will provide a smooth and consistent surface for painting and helps the new paint adhere to the old painted wallpaper, preventing it from peeling or chipping.
Start Painting: Apply your chosen paint. Apply two coats as necessary, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.

Addressing Seams: If the wallpaper seams are significantly raised, consider using a thin layer of joint compound to smooth them out before priming. This will help create a more seamless look when you paint.
Choosing the Right Primer: Use a high-quality primer designed for interior walls, which offers good adhesion and seals in the old paint effectively.
Wallpaper Condition: Evaluate the condition of the painted wallpaper. If it's badly damaged or peeling, it might be better to remove the old wallpaper before repainting. Removing the old wallpaper may be a more suitable long-term approach than painting over it.
Safety: Always ensure proper ventilation when painting. Wear the correct safety protection equipment.

Test Patch: Before painting the entire wall, do a test patch in a small area to see how the paint adheres to the primed surface.
Multiple Coats: Depending on the color of your wallpaper and the paint color you’re applying, you may need multiple coats for full coverage.
Patience: Allow each step to dry completely before moving on to the next.

Step	Action	Purpose
1. Clean Walls	Wipe down the painted wallpaper with a damp cloth.	Remove dust and grime for better paint adhesion.
2. Repair Damages	Fix tears and seams with paste or filler.	Create a smooth, even surface for painting.
3. Tape Trim	Use painter's tape to cover moldings and trim.	Protect trim from paint.
4. Prime Walls	Apply primer over the painted wallpaper.	Seal surface, ensure paint adhesion and consistent finish.
5. Paint Walls	Apply the paint in smooth, even coats.	Cover the primed wallpaper.

By following these steps, you can successfully cover painted-over wallpaper.