Which Is The Best Way To Decorate Walls? Paint Or Wallpaper?

Selecting between wallpapers and paint is an ongoing debate that doesn’t have a right or wrong answer. Homeowners need to consider several factors when undertaking a remodeling project or setting up a new home. But, keeping in mind things like cost, style, installation skills, and durability does create a clearer picture. This article explores the above, along with several other factors, to help you decide for yourself whether wall painting or wallpaper would be the right choice to style your interiors.

Paint Or Wallpaper: Peeling Back The Layers

Okay, let’s say you have a patch of bare wall that you want to add some character and life to. What would be the best course of action? A friend might recommend wallpaper because they like a particular design, but another might push you toward paint for the ease of installation. Ultimately, though, what you should prioritize is your lifestyle.

Here’s a look at the checklist of all the factors that influence your final decision.

What Fits Your Wallet

First off, you need to determine how much you’re willing to spend. While paint is more-cost cost-effective when you first go out to buy it, wallpaper doesn’t require touch-ups in the long run. The final decision depends on how much you’re willing to spend throughout the lifespan of each wall decoration.

Variety & Customization

In this case, wallpaper provides a larger range of textures and patterns to choose from. You could go for a neutral pattern, flower designs, or even order a custom design if that’s what you’re into. The possibilities are endless. On the other hand, paint is great for mixing your favorite hue of pink or getting the precise shade of cream to go with the rest of your theme, too. Verdict? Prioritize the outcome.

Ease Of Installation

Next, consider how you’re going to put up either choice. While wallpapers might seem easy at first, they require special skills to paste them firmly so that there are no bubbles or misalignments, which is better left to professionals. Conversely, if you’re willing to put in the work, wall painting can be a fun little weekend project that could result in a dopamine boost.

Durability & Lifespan

Peeking into the future, how long do you want the job to last? If you’re looking for results to span 5-10 years, paint is the right choice for you, but if you want something that’ll last longer than a decade, then wallpaper all the way.

Maintenance Work

How much time, money, and effort are you willing to spend on your choice? While the average wallpaper only requires the occasional wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap, paint demands touch-ups every two to five years due to wear and tear. If you want something low-maintenance, you should invest in wallpaper, but if you’re willing to cover everything up and pick up a paintbrush, wall painting is always on the table.

Environmental Costs

Next, consider what impact your decorating decision will have on the environment. Generally, wallpaper is considered more eco-friendly when compared to wall painting—especially when the competition is between high-VOC wallpaper and traditional paint. However, with the advancement of technology, both options can be pretty eco-friendly, so the choice is ultimately yours.

Change vs. Permanence

So, are you the type of person who gets bored easily and likes to experiment with their aesthetics? Or are you someone who has a pretty consistent taste and doesn’t get restless when being surrounded by the same walls? Paint is easy enough to change, lighten, darken, or anything else in between, but wallpaper is a challenge to take down and replace.

Covering Up Flaws

Let’s say you’re noticing a few cracks or grooves in your drywall. What is the best method to disguise them? While paint will require you to repair the wall till you have an even surface before you apply that first layer of primer, wallpapers are generally more forgiving—easily hiding small imperfections and saving you the additional cost of repairing your wall.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both options have their pros and cons. While paint might be more affordable upfront, it requires more maintenance than wallpaper. Conversely, while wallpaper requires professional installation, it also has more textures and finishes to choose from. All of that being said, you need to keep your personal preferences in mind. Whatever makes you feel more at home and suits your lifestyle best is the right decorating choice for your walls.

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