Wallpaper vs. paint: A guide to cost, style, and durability

A home makeover is more than a project. It’s your chance to transform your space to reflect your personal style and needs. So, it’s no surprise that choosing between wallpaper vs. paint is one of the biggest decisions you’ll face. But how do you know which is right for you?

In this comparison guide, you’ll find real-life scenarios that highlight the strengths of wallpaper or paint, taking into account factors like ease of application, design flexibility, and practical functionality.

What is wallpaper?

Vintage patterned wallpaper in a living room (Source: iStock)

A wallpaper is a type of decorative paper made from long sheets, featuring printed or painted designs. It’s primarily used to cover walls or ceilings of indoor spaces.

Wallpaper is generally sold in rolls with various patterns and textures to add a touch of personalization or character to a living space. In some cases, it can be used in outdoor spaces with special considerations.

There are different types to choose from: traditional wallpaper, which offers durability but often needs professional installation; peel-and-stick wallpaper, a DIY-friendly option; or cheap wallpaper, which is cost-effective but generally of lower quality.

What is paint?

Vibrant red walls in a renovated room (Source: iStock)

Paint is a thick, liquid substance made up of binders, pigment, solvent, and additives. It’s mainly used for protective and decorative purposes. Applying paint protects your surface against environmental elements, like moisture, corrosion, and weather.

For decorative purposes, painting your walls can boost aesthetics. It improves the visual appeal of your space by adding color and life to an otherwise old and dull interior or exterior. Paint can also be used to hide minor imperfections on surfaces, ensuring everything looks balanced and clean-cut.

Wallpaper or paint: Which is the better choice?

If you’re planning to renovate your indoor or outdoor space, it’s important to know whether wallpaper or painting is the better choice. Since there are different factors to consider, let’s survey each one below to ease your decision-making process.

In terms of application

Applying orange paint with a roller (Source: iStock)

With millions of Americans passionate about home improvements, it’s no secret that painting is easier and more accessible to many. Even without specialized skills, anyone can take up a brush and roller. Additionally, house painting is more forgiving if you make a mistake, as you can simply go over the area with another coat of paint.

Wallpapering can be trickier to apply, as it requires precise measurements and clean walls to stick well. Likewise, you need to get the measurements right when hanging wallpaper to save you from the trouble of running out of strips midway or having excess material. In some cases, wallpaper can damage paint, especially if the walls are older or were not properly primed.

In terms of design options

If you’re looking to add a touch of unique character and vibrancy to your space, wallpapering definitely offers more options than painted walls. There are different colors, textures, and patterns to choose from depending on your mood.

Whether you want to evoke an earthy vibe through wood and stone, or a lush forest with florals and artistic prints, the possibilities with eco-friendly wallpaper are endless. Many modern homeowners are also choosing textured designs to create a “feature wall” that acts as the focal point of the room.

However, if you prefer a clean and timeless look, consider painting instead of installing wallpaper. While there aren’t as many textures available as peel-and-stick wallpaper, paint comes in different colors and finishes. This clean finish allows your furniture to shine so that you can switch up the pieces now and then.

In terms of durability

Installing wallpaper for a durable finish (Source: iStock)

Durability depends on the environment you live in, as your living space affects how long wallpaper or paint holds up over time. In cooler, well-ventilated homes and apartments, both options generally last well. However, if you live in more humid areas with limited ventilation, traditional wallpaper is prone to mold build-up.

High-quality wallpaper is a great choice for interior design, as it can last up to 15 years. Alternatively, while less durable in terms of absolute lifespan, paint copes better in humid or varied conditions. Although, for maintenance purposes, painted walls are cheaper to repair or touch up in case of damage.

In terms of functionality

Paint is more flexible and offers greater leeway due to its quick application. Whether you’re looking to enhance the appearance of your ceiling, kitchen, or garden, paint is quick to apply with minimal fuss. When considering satin vs. gloss paint, remember that gloss paint can emphasize wall flaws, whereas satin masks minor imperfections better.

However, if you’re aiming to cover significant wall imperfections and lessen the frequency of maintenance, wallpaper is a better choice. While it may take longer to install, its unique style and longevity are worth the effort for areas like bedrooms and dining areas.

In terms of removal

Removing old paint with a scraper (Source: iStock)

Removing wallpaper adhesive is more challenging than paint stripping, as it requires various techniques depending on the material used. Common tools to remove existing wallpaper include a wallpaper scoring tool or a steam stripper. There are also DIY mixtures, such as fabric softener, dish soap, or vinegar.

To remove a wall painting design from a whole room or one corner, you can choose from methods including chemical strippers, heat guns, scrapers, or sanding. If the surface and edges are clean enough and in good condition, you can even repaint over the old one. Pick the method that best suits your wall materials and the time you’re willing to invest.

In terms of cost

Interior painting is generally more affordable than wallpapering, especially for covering larger areas. Basic supplies like a can of paint, brushes, and a roller are relatively inexpensive. Even without professional experience, you can attempt to DIY to reduce the wallpaper cost.

Meanwhile, wallpapering requires more tools, such as paste, a smoothing brush, a plumb line, and a stepladder. It’s often recommended to hire professionals to get that flawless finish. While the wallpaper cost can be higher upfront, it tends to last for more than a decade, whereas paint usually needs refreshing every five to seven years.

In the US, professional decorators typically factor in the complexity of the pattern and the height of the ceilings when providing a quote.

Turn your house renovation dreams into reality with Airtasker

The key to a smooth, hassle-free home renovation that saves you from DIY headaches and costly mistakes is to leave the work to the pros. While painting might seem simple, it takes patience and precision to achieve a flawless finish. Wallpaper installation is even trickier, as it demands a trained eye to avoid issues such as bubbles or uneven patterns.

With Airtasker, turning your vision into reality doesn’t have to take long. Just post your task, share your preferences and budget, and wait for local painting or wallpapering experts to send you their best offers. It’s that easy!