Wallpaper vs. Paint: Which Is Right for You?
Deciding how to dress your walls is a key step in any home improvement project. While paint has long been the go-to solution, wallpaper has seen a resurgence thanks to modern designs, new materials, and simpler application methods. In this guide, we’ll compare the pros and cons of wallpaper and paint, helping you choose the best option for your style, budget, and maintenance needs.
1. Cost and Budget Considerations
Wallpaper
Upfront Expense: Premium designer wallpaper can be more expensive than standard paint. However, you’ll often need fewer tools (e.g., no primer if the walls are in good condition).
Longevity: High-quality wallpaper can last 10–15 years or more when well cared for, potentially offsetting higher initial costs.
Paint
Initial Outlay: Paint is generally cheaper per square metre than wallpaper, especially if you opt for a standard emulsion.
Ongoing Touch-Ups: Over time, paint may need frequent touching up—particularly in high-traffic areas—to deal with scuffs, chips, or fading.
2. Style and Aesthetics
Wallpaper
Variety of Patterns and Textures: From subtle pastels to bold geometrics and even metallic or flocked finishes, wallpaper lets you experiment with different visual effects.
Feature Walls: Perfect for adding a statement wall in living rooms or bedrooms.
Seam Visibility: Some wallpaper types may show seams if not hung meticulously, and complex patterns can be tricky to align.
Paint
Flexibility with Colours: Paint offers virtually unlimited colour options, and it’s easier to switch colours by simply repainting.
Finishes Available: Choose from matt, eggshell, satin, or gloss finishes to achieve different effects.
Blending and Effects: Faux painting or stencilling can mimic textures such as concrete or wood grain, providing creative alternatives to wallpaper.
3. Durability and Maintenance
Wallpaper
Cleaning: Wipeable or vinyl wallpaper can be cleaned gently with a damp cloth, making it suitable for kitchens or children’s rooms.
Damage Control: Repairs are more involved—if a section tears, you might need to replace the entire length of wallpaper for a seamless look.
Paint
Easy Touch-Ups: Chips and marks can usually be fixed with minimal effort—just keep a little paint on hand for patching.
Quality and Finish Matter: High-traffic areas may benefit from more robust paints (e.g., scrubbable or moisture-resistant) to reduce frequent repainting.
4. Installation and Labour
Wallpaper
Preparation and Skill: Walls often need to be very smooth, and matching complex patterns can be time-consuming. Novice DIYers may find wallpapering challenging without prior experience.
Peel-and-Stick Options: Some modern wallpapers are peel-and-stick, making application (and future removal) more accessible for beginners.
Paint
DIY-Friendly: Painting is generally more straightforward, though proper preparation (filling cracks, sanding) is still crucial for a quality finish.
Multiple Coats: For drastic colour changes, you may need a primer and multiple layers of paint, which can add to total time and cost.
5. Environmental Factors (Brighton and Hove Context)
Humidity and Coastal Conditions: In seaside towns like Brighton and Hove, dampness can affect how well wallpaper adheres. Choose moisture-resistant or vinyl-backed wallpaper for better longevity, or opt for mould-resistant paints.
Sunlight Exposure: Both wallpaper and paint can fade under strong sunlight. If your home receives direct sun, look for UV-resistant coatings or consider positioning furniture to minimise direct exposure on walls.
6. Changing Your Mind Later
Repainting
Flexibility: Repainting is often simpler—just sand any imperfections, prime if necessary, and apply new coats.
Time and Mess: It’s generally faster but can be messy, especially if you’re switching to a drastically lighter shade from a dark colour.
Removing Wallpaper
Effort Required: Stripping old wallpaper can be time-consuming, involving steamers or chemical solutions. Modern peel-and-stick wallpapers are more manageable but still need care.
Potential Wall Damage: Improper removal techniques can damage plaster or drywall, leading to extra repair costs.
7. Final Thoughts: Which Is Right for You?
Wallpaper shines if you want a bold statement, a variety of textures, and long-term durability—provided you install and maintain it correctly. However, it can be pricier up front and more difficult to change down the line.
Paint is ideal for flexibility, quick updates, and lower initial costs. It may need more frequent touch-ups, but it’s simpler for DIY projects and generally easier to refresh when you fancy a new look.
Ultimately, the decision hinges on your budget, design preferences, and willingness to handle maintenance or make future changes. Whichever option you choose, investing in high-quality materials and proper preparation will pay off with a stylish, lasting finish.
