Peel and stick wallpaper or paint: the best choice for your home
When it comes to updating the look of your home, the two most popular options are peel and stick wallpaper versus paint. Both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for your space will depend on your specific needs and preferences and the characteristics of the room you are decorating. In this blog, we’ll compare peel and stick wallpaper and paint across several major categories to help you make an informed decision.
Ease of application of peel and stick wallpaper versus paint
Peel and stick wallpaper is easy to apply:
Pros: Peel and stick wallpaper is designed for ease of use. With self-adhesive backing, you simply peel off the protective film and stick the wallpaper to the wall. This process is generally mess-free and does not require any additional tools or materials such as putty or water. Most people can handle installation themselves, making it a great option for DIY projects. Cons: Although application is simple, achieving perfect alignment, especially with textured wallpaper, can be difficult. It requires precision to avoid air bubbles and to ensure the pattern matches correctly.
paint:
Pros: Drawing is a straightforward process that most people are familiar with. Basic painting tools include brushes, rollers, painter’s tape, and dotted canvas. Painting allows for easy adjustments and changes, and there are different techniques (such as sponges and stencils) to create different effects. Cons: Drawing can be messy and time consuming. It often requires multiple coats, drying time between coats, and extensive prep work like taping edges and covering furniture.
The variety and design options of peel and stick wallpaper versus paint
Reusable peel and stick wallpaper:
Pros: Offers a wide range of styles, colors, and textures. From bold geometric designs to delicate and ornate patterns, there is something to suit every taste and style. Wallpaper can create effects that are difficult to achieve with paint alone, such as intricate patterns or faux finishes (such as brick or wood). Cons: Customization is limited to designs available on the market, although some companies offer custom printing options.
paint:
Pros: The color options with paint are nearly limitless. You can mix and match colors to create custom shades. Paint can also be used in different techniques to achieve unique effects, such as gradient colors, lines or stenciled patterns. Cons: Although paint offers color flexibility, achieving some complex textures or patterns can be labor-intensive and may require professional skills.
Durability and maintenance of peel and stick wallpaper versus paint
Durability of peel and stick wallpaper:
Pros: High-quality peel and stick wallpaper is very durable and can last for several years if applied correctly. It is generally easy to apply and clean with a damp cloth, making it suitable for high traffic areas. Cons: In humid environments, such as bathrooms, some wallpaper may begin to peel over time. It is essential to choose wallpaper designed specifically for such conditions if you plan to use it in those areas.
paint:
Pros: The paint is very durable, and can withstand scrubbing and cleaning, depending on the type (e.g., satin or semi-gloss). It is an excellent choice for areas that experience a lot of wear and tear. Cons: Paint can chip, fade, or stain over time, especially in high-traffic areas. Touch-ups may be necessary to maintain a fresh look.
it costs
Affordable peel and stick wallpaper:
Pros: Although the initial cost of peel-and-stick wallpaper can be higher than paint, it often balances out because you don’t need additional materials like primer, brushes, or rollers. It is also time efficient, and will likely reduce labor costs if you are hiring professionals. Cons: High-quality peel and stick wallpaper can be expensive, and the cost can increase for larger spaces.
paint:
Pros: Paint is generally less expensive per square foot than wallpaper. The materials needed for painting are also relatively inexpensive. Cons: If you hire professionals, labor costs can increase significantly. Additionally, multiple coats of paint and specialty finishes can raise the overall cost.
Removal and reuse
Peel and stick wallpaper:
Pros: One of the biggest advantages of peel and stick wallpaper is its removability. It can be peeled off without damaging the walls, making it an excellent choice for renters or those who like to change their home decor frequently. Cons: Although some high-quality options can be reused, not all peel-and-stick wallpapers are designed for multiple applications.
paint:
Pros: Paint is a permanent solution. It will not peel or fall off, and changes in paint color can be easily achieved by painting over the existing color. Cons: Changing the color of a painted wall requires effort and time. You may need to sand, prime, and apply several coats of the new color to cover the old color, especially if you’re transitioning from a dark color to a lighter color.
Environmental impact
Eco-friendly peel and stick wallpaper:
Pros: Many peel-and-stick wallpapers are made with environmentally friendly materials and non-toxic adhesives. Brands like Chasing Paper focus on sustainability. Cons: The manufacturing process and adhesive layer may not be as environmentally friendly as paint.
paint:
Pros: Eco-friendly paints are available that contain low or no VOCs, reducing environmental impact and improving indoor air quality. Cons: Conventional paints can contain harmful chemicals that may affect the environment during production and application.
Room suitability
Peel and stick wallpaper:
Pros: Perfect for accent walls, accent areas and spaces where you want to add a touch of pattern or texture. It’s perfect for rentals, nurseries, and spaces where you may want to change the decor frequently. Cons: Not all peel-and-stick wallpaper is suitable for areas with high humidity. Make sure you choose the right type for kitchens and bathrooms.
paint:
Pros: The paint is versatile and can be used in any room, including high-humidity areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Specialty paints are available for various surfaces and conditions. Cons: Paint may not provide the same level of visual interest or texture that wallpaper does.
Which one is right for you?
Choosing between peel and stick wallpaper versus paint depends on your needs, preferences, and the characteristics of the space you are decorating. Here are some final considerations to help you decide:
Use peel and stick wallpaper if:
You want a quick, easy and mess-free application. You rent or want the flexibility to change your decor frequently. Prefer bold patterns, textures or intricate designs. You’re working on a DIY project and want a unique look without professional help.
Use paint if:
You need a solution that is cost-effective and versatile. You are decorating an area with high humidity or high traffic. Prefer solid color or subtle custom effects. You are comfortable with the potential chaos and investment of time.
