Yes, you can put new wallpaper on top of existing wallpaper, but only under specific conditions.
Putting new wallpaper over old can save time and effort compared to stripping the old paper. However, the success of this method relies heavily on the state of the original wallpaper and the wall surface beneath it.
Assessing the Existing Wallpaper
Before you even consider applying new wallpaper, it's crucial to thoroughly inspect the current wall covering. According to expert advice:
Assess the condition of the current wallpaper. If it's in good shape—adhered well to the wall, no peeling edges or bubbles—it might be suitable for wallpapering over. However, if it's damaged or peeling, it's best to remove it entirely to ensure a smooth surface for the new wallpaper.
This means the primary factor is the integrity of the existing paper.
When It Might Be Suitable
If your existing wallpaper meets the "good shape" criteria:
- Adhered well: The paper is firmly attached to the wall with no loose sections.
- No peeling edges: All edges and seams are smooth and stuck down.
- No bubbles: There are no air pockets or blisters under the surface.
- Smooth texture: The surface is relatively smooth, without significant patterns or textures that might show through the new paper.
In these cases, wallpapering over might be a viable option. You will still need to prepare the surface, often involving cleaning and potentially applying a primer specifically designed for wallpapering over existing paper.
When Removal Is Best
If the existing wallpaper is not in good shape, the reference is clear: "if it's damaged or peeling, it's best to remove it entirely". Trying to wallpaper over problematic paper will almost certainly lead to issues, including:
- Bubbling or peeling of the new paper as the old paper fails.
- Uneven surfaces where damaged or loose areas exist.
- Poor adhesion of the new wallpaper paste.
Signs that removal is necessary:
- Loose or peeling seams and edges.
- Bubbles or blisters under the surface.
- Tears or damaged areas.
- Multiple layers of existing wallpaper.
- Highly textured wallpaper (like Anaglypta) that will show through.
- Wallpaper applied over a poor or damaged substrate (like damaged drywall).
Preparing the Surface
Even if the existing wallpaper is suitable for covering, preparation is key. This typically involves:
- Cleaning: Wash the existing wallpaper to remove dirt, grease, and grime.
- Repairing: Glue down any minor loose seams or edges that weren't immediately obvious.
- Priming: Apply a specialized wallpaper primer or sealer. This seals the existing paper, prevents moisture from the new paste from reactivating the old adhesive (which can cause bubbles), and provides a surface for the new wallpaper to adhere to.
Conclusion
In summary, while it's not always recommended, you can put wallpaper on top of existing wallpaper if the old paper is in excellent condition—smooth, fully adhered, and free from damage or peeling. If the existing paper is compromised in any way, removing it first is the necessary step for a successful and long-lasting new wallpaper application.
