Removable wallpaper is an affordable and easy-to-install alternative to traditional wallcoverings. However, some homeowners wonder if they can use it on painted walls.
The short answer is yes, but there are some things you should know before trying it. The key is proper surface preparation. The following tips will help you achieve the best results.
Preparing the Walls
Peel-and-stick wallpaper has become a popular way to transform the look of rooms in a short amount of time. It’s also a great choice for homes with painted walls that are due for a fresh coat of paint but want to add some added visual interest while they wait. While peel and stick can be used on painted walls, it’s important to prepare the walls properly before beginning the project. To ensure that the adhesive on the wallpaper sticks properly, walls should be free of any debris or dirt. In addition, the surface must be smooth and dry. Finally, the wall must be free of oil-based or latex paint and any adhesive residue from previous wallpaper.
To prep your walls for use with peel and stick, begin by assessing the condition of the current paint. Look for cracks, chips, and other flaws, as these can cause the adhesive on the stickers to fail or not adhere properly. If you find any of these issues, repair them with a good-quality drywall patch and sanding before beginning the project.
Next, wipe the walls with a damp sponge to remove any dust or dirt. You can also clean the walls with a mild detergent solution or TSP (trisodium phosphate) to help make sure that the adhesive on the stickers will adhere properly. Finally, let the walls dry completely before applying the stickers.
Once the wall has been prepared, it’s time to choose your design. There are a wide variety of peel-and-stick options available, from home decor and nursery stores to online retailers. Many online retailers offer both buy online/pickup in-store and ship-to-home options, making it easy for you to find the perfect option for your room.
When choosing a design, be sure to consider how long you plan to keep the wallpaper. If you are planning to redecorate your space in the near future, consider getting a neutral or light color so that you can easily swap out the stickers for a new look.
Many paint stores now offer Samplize peel-and-stick paint samples, which are 12×12-inch adhesive squares that allow you to test out different paint colors without the mess of painting a full-size swatch. This allows you to test out paint colors from multiple manufacturers all at once, saving you money and time compared to using traditional paint samples.
Cleaning the Walls
If you don’t have time to paint and don’t want to deal with the mess, peel and stick is a great option. However, you’ll need to clean the walls regularly to keep them looking their best. Vacuuming is one of the best ways to remove dirt, dust, and other debris from your wall surface. Alternatively, use an electrostatic dusting cloth (try Swiffer Dry Cloths) to gently wipe down your walls. Regular cleaning will help prevent dirt buildup that can cause your wallpaper to bubble or tear.
When applying a new peel-and-stick wallpaper on painted walls, it is important to give the wall a thorough cleaning pre-application. Dirt and grime can interfere with the adhesive on the back of the mural, so you need to make sure that the surface is completely clean and smooth before applying. You can use a damp sponge to wash the walls but be sure to rinse it well and wipe dry with a lint-free rag afterward.
Another way to clean your walls is with a degreaser. Many different products are available, but you should choose one that is safe for painted surfaces. If you don’t have a degreaser on hand, you can also use a bit of borax mixed with water to scrub the wall.
Once your walls are completely clean, they are ready for you to start decorating them with your favorite removable wallpaper. Remember, though, that even with proper cleaning, your wall coverings will need to be removed at some point in order to refresh or replace them. If you are looking for a long-lasting wall covering, consider purchasing an acrylic panel from a hardware store and mounting it on your wall instead of using wallpaper.
If you are interested in adding a decorative touch to your walls without the hassle of painting, Samplize peel and Stick is a great option. These 12×12-inch adhesive squares are easy to apply to your wall and come in a variety of colors so you can see what shades will look best. Plus, they are perfect for renters who may be worried about nailing pictures or pasting up wallpaper without damaging the wall.
Applying the Tiles
Once the wall is clean, it’s time to start preparing it for tile. First, gently rub your finger over the surface to get a feel for what’s on there. If it’s hard to the touch and doesn’t have any give, you are likely dealing with a strong adhesive such as super bonding glue. If it feels soft and pliable, you are likely dealing with a more traditional wallpaper or paint residue such as duct tape or sellotape. The latter type will be easier to remove because it is generally crusty and flat, with some paint around the edges.
If the glue is pliable, you can simply wipe it away with a damp cloth or sponge. If it’s hard, you can try using a clothing steamer or a mixture of liquid soap and water. If the residue is particularly stubborn, you can also use acetone. Just make sure you use a mask and work in small sections because acetone is a paint stripper and will take the paint off along with it.
Before you apply the tiles, you’ll want to be sure that the surface is clean and dry. Make sure to follow the specific instructions from your manufacturer for surface and adhesive suggestions. It’s a good idea to buy more than you need so that there are extra tiles to work with should you make any mistakes or if you run out of space for cutting around corners and edges.
When you’re ready to begin, carefully pull the paper off the wall. If you are using a heat gun to warm the surface of the adhesive, be careful not to burn yourself or damage the drywall underneath.
Once the adhesive is fully removed, you can apply the tiles as you would normally apply a coat of paint to your walls. Once the tile is applied, you can let it dry and then apply a second coat as needed to even out any areas that aren’t quite perfect.
While peel-and-stick tile is a great solution for those who don’t have the money or time to remodel their homes, it is important to remember that no matter how well it is done, nothing can ever really measure up to real tile. If you are planning on selling your home soon, it may be wise to hold off on the peel-and-stick until you’re able to afford a proper remodel.
Removing the Tiles
Peel and stick wall tiles are a convenient and inexpensive way to refresh a room without the expense of hiring a professional tiling contractor. However, some homeowners wonder whether or not they can use peel-and-stick on painted walls. The answer is yes, but it’s important to prepare the surface correctly before beginning a project.
To properly prep a painted surface, make sure that all loose paint is removed. This is necessary to ensure that the adhesive sticks properly and is durable. You can remove the paint with a scraper or putty knife, and you should be sure to check in all corners and crevices.
Once the surface is clean and dry, you can begin to apply the tile. You’ll need to be careful not to overlap the tiles too much, and you should use a leveler to ensure that all of the tiles are straight on the wall. You should also make sure that any grout lines are smooth and even and that the edges of the tile are not exposed.
If you’re installing a backsplash over existing drywall, you may need to sand down the area in order to get it flat. This will help to ensure that the new adhesive will adhere properly, and it will help the peel-and-stick tiles look more professional. In addition, if you’re laying tile over a concrete surface, it’s a good idea to scrub the area with a soapy solution or household degreaser. This will help to obliterate any residue that may interfere with the adhesion of the tile.
When it comes time to remove the peel-and-stick tiles, you’ll want to make sure that you’re using a product designed specifically for this purpose. The proper remover will help prevent damage to the wall and make the entire process much easier. Some people even find that it’s helpful to apply a heat gun to the surface while they’re removing the tiles, as this can soften the adhesive and make it easier to remove.
After you’ve finished removing the tiles, it’s a good idea to label them with a marker pen. This will help you keep track of where they belong, and it can also be useful if you plan to reuse them.
