Introduction

Are you renovating a second-hand home? Want new wallpaper but dread removing the old? Good news – you can often install wallpaper over old directly! This saves time and avoids messy removal. But first, check if your walls are suitable.

This guide will show you how to cover old wallpaper properly. We’ll cover wall checks, preparation, and the best wallpaper choices. You’ll also learn how to avoid common problems like peeling or seams splitting.

Check First: Can You Cover Your Old Wallpaper?

Not all old wallpaper works for installing wallpaper over old. Check these first:

Wallpaper Condition Test

1. Feel the wall for bubbles or loose edges

2. Tape test: Stick and quickly pull tape to see if wallpaper comes off

3. Look for large missing or damaged areas

“If over 20% is loose, don’t cover it – remove completely.”

Glue Residue Check

1. Look for dried glue lumps

2. Wipe a small area with a wet cloth – does glue dissolve?

3. Check if wall is too smooth (bad for new glue)

Moisture Test

1. Use a moisture meter (should be under 12%)

2. Check for water stains or mold

3. Look for damp corners

Preparation: Set Up for Success

If your walls pass the tests, prepare properly. These steps ensure your wallpaper over existing will last:

Clean Well

1. Wipe walls with mild cleaner

2. Focus on kitchen/bathroom grease

3. Treat any mold with anti-mold spray

Fill Gaps

1. Use filler for cracks and seams

2. Sand smooth when dry

3. Check if filled areas are flush

Apply Wallpaper Primer

1. Choose quality primer

2. Apply 1-2 coats (wait 2 hours between)

3. Let dry fully for 24 hours

“Primer is key to install wallpaper over old successfully. It seals the old layer to prevent bubbles.”

Best Wallpaper Types for Covering Old Wallpaper

Some wallpapers work better than others for covering old wallpaper:

Thick Non-Woven Wallpaper

• Hides old patterns well

• Lets walls breathe

• Easy to install

Textured Wallpaper

• Texture distracts from unevenness

• Thicker for better coverage

• Seams less visible

Dark or Busy Patterns

• Covers color differences

• Patterns hide flaws

• Small mistakes don’t show

“For wallpaper renovation, we recommend non-woven types over 0.5mm thick for best coverage.”

Common Mistakes: Why Some Covering Fails

Avoid these errors when you cover old wallpaper:

Peeling Causes

1. Dirty old wallpaper

2. Bad primer application

3. High humidity during install

Seam Splitting

1. New/old wallpaper shrink differently

2. Not enough glue at seams

3. Big temperature changes

Bubble Problems

1. Uneven glue spread

2. Not smoothing properly

3. Missed loose spots

“Even when you can install wallpaper over old, wait 48 hours before using the room.”

Pro Tips

For best results:

Cross-Pasting Method

• Don’t align new seams with old

• Go at 45-degree angles

• Reduces seam splitting risk

Double Glue Technique

1. Thin glue layer on wall first

2. Normal amount on wallpaper

3. Increases bond strength

Section-by-Section

• Do 1-2 rolls at a time

• Finish each part completely

• Prevents big mistakes

FAQ

Q1: How long will wallpaper over old last?
A1: Done right, 5-8 years – same as new installation.

Q2: How many layers can I cover?
A2: Maximum 2 layers to avoid overloading walls.

Q3: How to know if my wallpaper can be covered?
A3: Do the tests above or consult a professional.

Q4: Will covering affect wall breathability?
A4: Good non-woven wallpaper breathes fine.

Q5: How to fix small bubbles?
A5: Inject a little glue underneath and smooth out.

Conclusion

You can successfully install wallpaper over old with proper prep and materials. Now you can check your walls, choose suitable wallpaper, and avoid common errors.

Remember: if your old wallpaper is in bad shape, removal may be better. Taking time to prepare properly prevents problems later.

Ready to refresh your walls? Pick the right wallpaper, follow these steps, and enjoy your renewed space!