The Pros and Cons of Wallpaper vs Paint
Are you looking to redo your walls but can’t decide whether to paint them or cover them with wallpaper? Well, we’re here to help you make the best choice you can, as both options have their ups and downs in terms of ease of application, longevity and more. Without further ado, here are the pros and cons of painting your home and hanging wallpaper.
Painting
Pros
A good paint job is easy to accomplish when you have the right tools. It can also be done at a low price depending on the size of the job and the paint finish you’re looking for. To achieve a good paint job, you don’t need a professional. All you need are the right supplies, an idea of efficient ways to get the job done and time. If you’re tired of the paint colour you chose years ago, it’s easy to repaint the walls, or even apply a layer of wallpaper to the surface. There are an endless array of colours and finishes available when it comes to painting, allowing you to customize any room as you see fit.
Cons
Depending on your lifestyle, whether you have children, pets or love to move furniture around often, painted walls are vulnerable to chipping and cracking over time. This means that paint touch-ups might be in your future with this option. If you do need to repaint, the application process can be a messy one. It’s important to cover your floors with plastic sheeting or newspaper and take as much furniture out of the room to prevent staining. Whatever you can’t, place in the centre of the room and away from the walls. As well, beware of which paints you’re using, as some can release harmful air pollutants known as volatile organic compounds. VOCs can be incredibly harmful to the body, so look for paints that contain low or zero VOCs.
Hanging Wallpaper
Pros
Wallpaper can last more than 15 years, making it a more cost-effective solution in the long-run when compared to paint that only lasts about ten years. The material is easy to adhere to walls, smoothing out nicely to hide surface imperfections like scratches, stains and dents. Wallpaper is still a highly sought after design element because it can add warmth, style and depth to almost any room. With a wide variety of designs, textures, prints, finishes and colours available, it can be used to make a room look like a professional interior designer had a hand in it.
Cons
The application process for wallpaper is time-consuming and can look less than attractive if the job is done without the proper tools or patience. Painting existing wallpaper or applying a different wallpaper over it will add a wavy look to your wall. As well, the pattern of whatever’s beneath will show through. Even though wallpaper is easy to apply, it can be horribly time-consuming to remove, particularly if it’s older wallpaper. Modern sheeting can be stripped off in large panels.
For over 50 years, Monarch Paints has been helping customers in Bloor West Village and North York with all their painting needs. Our Toronto paint and wallpaper stores offer high-quality supplies for trusted brands that include C2 Paint, Valspar, Benjamin Moore and more. Be sure to visit one of our Toronto paint stores for your next project!