Wallpaper vs. Paint: Which Is Better?

Both wallpaper and paint can bring a pop of color and style to any room. But which is the better option? Paint and wallpaper are both excellent choices, so it all depends on your personal preferences and room design. Here are some differences between wallpaper and print that can help you make an informed decision:

Cost

Paint typically costs less upfront for the paint itself depending on the type, finish, and brand of paint you choose. Higher quality paints that last longer typically cost more. Paints will lower costs typically need touchups over time. When painting, supplies such as brushes, paint trays, rollers, tape, and floor and furniture protection can add to the price. If you get tired of the paint color, you will need to start all over again and buy new paint.

Wallpaper typically has greater upfront costs for the paper and installation materials. However, wallpaper lasts longer than paint, which reduces the costs of future investment. If you are looking to get the most out of your investment, removable wallpaper is an obvious choice. You can take it down easily, and even save it to be used again in the future or on a different wall completely.

Selection

Paint options are incredibly vast. You can choose a paint of nearly any color or shade. It is a great option if you want flat, glossy, or matte solid walls. However, it is extremely difficult to create designs and patterns using paint, and hiring a professional to do that for you will increase the cost of painting the wall.

Wallpaper has options in both solid colors, and patterns. It is also possible to select fabric, textured, and cloth options. You may also choose a wallpaper that has intricate designs and effects, such as foil and glitter, pearls, and grass cloth.

Durability

Paint that is professionally done can usually last for about 10 years, depending on the amount of traffic in the room. For example, high traffic rooms such as a child’s room and the kitchen, where dirt, grease, and messy hands may frequently touch the walls, may require touchups over time to ensure that the paint is properly maintained. It is best to purchase washable paint that is easier to clean.

Wallpaper usually lasts up to 15 years, even in high foot traffic areas of the home. It is easily washable, so it is great to use in areas such as the kitchen and bathroom. Although it is possible for wallpaper to peel or crack over time, touchups can be easily done by using a small amount of wallpaper glue.

Installation

Paint is relatively easy to do without professional painters. However, to ensure that the walls have an even appearance, spackling and sanding needs to be done to fill any cracks or paint peeling. This can be difficult, especially when doing it without prior experience. It is typically faster to paint a room than to install wallpaper.

Wallpaper installation is a longer process for most. Applying paste to the wallpaper usually makes the process more time consuming, however there are wallpaper options such as peel and stick wallpaper that are much easier and quicker to install. Wallpaper patterns need to match up and be aligned, however for those that prefer a patterned wall usually do not mind putting in the effort.