Wallpaper has made a major comeback, giving homeowners a way to add color, pattern, texture, and personality to their spaces. But if your walls are textured, you may be wondering: Can you put wallpaper on textured walls?
The short answer is yes, wallpaper can be installed on textured walls — but the surface usually needs to be properly prepared first. The type and severity of the wall texture will determine whether wallpaper can be applied directly or if additional steps are needed to create the best finished result.
Can You Install Wallpaper Directly Over Textured Walls?
In most cases, installing wallpaper directly over textured walls is not recommended. Even small imperfections in the wall surface can affect the final appearance of your wallpaper.
Wall texture can cause:
- Uneven areas beneath the wallpaper
- Visible bumps or patterns showing through
- Difficulty creating smooth seams
- Reduced adhesion over time
For the best results, wallpaper is typically installed over a smooth, clean, and properly prepared surface.
What Types of Textured Walls Can Have Wallpaper Installed?
Not all wall textures are the same. Some may require more preparation than others.
- Orange Peel Texture: Orange peel texture is a common wall finish found in many homes. Depending on how heavy the texture is, wallpaper may require the wall to be smoothed before installation.
- Knockdown Texture: Knockdown texture creates a more noticeable raised surface. In many cases, the wall will need to be skim coated to create a smooth base for wallpaper.
- Popcorn Texture: Popcorn texture is generally not a good surface for wallpaper installation. The texture typically needs to be removed before applying wallcoverings.
- Lightly Textured Walls: Very subtle textures may sometimes work with certain wallpapers, but it is always best to evaluate the surface first.
How Do You Prepare Textured Walls for Wallpaper?
Proper preparation is one of the most important steps in wallpaper installation. Common preparation steps include:
- Inspecting the wall surface
- Repairing any cracks, holes, or imperfections
- Applying a skim coat or smoothing compound
- Sanding the surface smooth
- Priming the wall
- Installing the wallpaper
A properly prepared wall helps wallpaper look better, last longer, and maintain clean seams.
Can You Put Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper on Textured Walls?
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is popular because it is easy to install and remove, but it typically works best on smooth surfaces. Textured walls can prevent peel-and-stick wallpaper from fully adhering, which may lead to:
- Lifting edges
- Air bubbles
- Poor adhesion
- A shorter lifespan
If you have textured walls, traditional wallpaper installed over a properly prepared surface is often the better option.
What if You Don’t Want to Remove Your Wall Texture?
If smoothing your walls is not an option, there are alternatives to consider. Some homeowners choose:
- Wall liners designed to create a smoother surface
- Decorative wall finishes
- Textured wallcoverings that work with slight imperfections
A professional wallpaper consultation can help determine the best approach for your specific walls.
Should You Hire a Professional to Install Wallpaper on Textured Walls?
For a small project, some homeowners may choose to handle preparation and installation themselves. However, textured walls often require extra skill and patience to achieve a smooth, professional finish.
Professional wallpaper installers can help with:
- Proper wall preparation
- Pattern matching
- Seam alignment
- Selecting the right wallcovering
Final Thoughts
So, can you put wallpaper on textured walls? Yes — but preparation is key. The smoother the surface, the better your wallpaper will look and perform over time.
If you’re considering wallpaper for your home, visit a Loconsolo Paints location to explore wallcoverings, samples, and expert guidance to help bring your vision to life.