The walls of any space can be dramatically changed with the help of paint or wallpaper. The ambiance of a room can be completely transformed with a slight change in the wall textures. A room can instantly be made welcoming and airy with the application of light pale paint color whereas the same room can be instantly converted into a cozy space with the application of darker wallpaper with a striking pattern. However, there are pros and cons to using both paint or wallpaper.
Several factors to be considered before choosing paint or wallpaper and they are as follows:-
1. Variety
Both paint and wallpaper come in unlimited varieties and colors. Paints come in various glosses and sheens, while wallpaper comes in paper and vinyl surfaces for durability and finish variation. The individual preferences and the lifestyle of your family can make a considerable difference in which finish you select. However, the theme of the house also plays a major role in selecting the relevant wallpaper or appropriate paint.
2. Durability
Wallpaper is very durable and will hold up the wall for more than 10 years. However, they are not immune to wear and tear of children and since the wallpaper is applied with an adhesive hence they are not suitable for high moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens as it may cause wallpaper to peel away from the wall.
Paint, on the other hand, is a good option for areas that need to have inexpensive and wet usage. They generally last for 3 to 4 years depending upon the exposure to weather and the type of paint used. Generally, retouching will be necessary in less than 3 years for lighter shades. When walls are damaged, scraped, or hit, paint can chip and repair and repainting will be necessary.
3. Expense
Wallpaper and paint can range in price from the low end to the high end of the cost spectrum. Wallpaper on average is more expensive to purchase the rolls, supplies and to have it installed. Since it lasts much longer, it works out to be more cost-effective in the longer run. Paint on average is a cheaper and easily available resource. It requires much fewer skills, time and effort to apply. The overall cost incurred for each paint job will be relatively lower than the cost of wallpapering. However, paint with higher-end finishes, and texture can be expensive especially if it needs to be professionally applied.
4. Ease of Application
Painting is the easier option and does not require a high skill set to apply. Painted walls can be repainted or re-touched very easily with the newer coats of paint of the same hue. In most cases, if the surface isn’t too worn out, a new coat of paint can be applied to the older one. On the other hand, the application of Wallpaper requires skilled manpower. The process is complex and requires expertise and patience for a smoother application. The same holds true for stripping the wallpaper too. A new layer of wallpaper cannot be applied on top of the existing one.
5. Area of application
Wallpapers are best suited for the areas which are not exposed to too much heat or moisture like kitchens and bathrooms. Moreover, wallpaper can be easily torn or damaged hence it’s best to avoid using it in high traffic areas or children’s rooms.
While Paint is generally suitable for all areas of the house. Paint withstand moisture and heat and relatively well as compared to wallpapers. However, excess heat can adversely affect the life of painted walls.