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Home Blog Painting Paint or Wallpaper

Paint or Wallpaper – What Should You Choose for Your House Walls?

Updated : December 1, 2023

Author : author_image Ananth

2249 views

Whether you opt for paint or wallpaper, your home's walls hold the potential for remarkable transformation. A soft, pale paint hue can effortlessly convert a dramatic space into a light and airy one, while rich, dark wallpaper featuring intricate designs can cosy up an overly spacious room. Balancing the merits and drawbacks of paint and wallpaper involves considering factors like ease of application, cost-effectiveness, and spatial adaptability. Regardless of your choice, incorporating paint or wallpaper on your ceilings can prove to be advantageous.

If you're seeking a way to infuse vitality into your lacklustre walls, the abundance of available materials can make choosing the right wallpaper a daunting task. Many homeowners face the dilemma of deciding between wallpaper and paint in India. Each option boasts its own merits and your ideal choice hinges on your specific needs. By comparing the attributes of paint and wallpaper, you can confidently arrive at a well-informed decision.

Difference Between Wall Paper Vs Wall Paints

Diversity in colours and designs is a big plus if you want to give your home a distinctive style. Thankfully, there is no shortage of preference for wallpaper or paint, which is preferable in India.

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Paint may provide beautiful effects that dramatically change the appearance of any Indian house when used in conjunction with the many different texturing methods currently in use. Every colour under the sky is accessible as paint, so you can chop and change to your heart's desire. Additional options include matte, satin, semi-gloss, and glossy finishes.

Advantages of Using Paint on the Walls

  • Increased Home Value: Quick, affordable way to boost overall property value, impressing potential buyers and indicating proper maintenance.
  • Enhanced Home Ambience: Refreshing interior colours creates a more enjoyable and inviting living environment, crucial as more people work from home.
  • Protection from Damage: Prevents moisture absorption, safeguarding against structural issues and mould growth, contributing to a healthier home.
  • Improved Aesthetics: Covers dents and marks, offering a pristine appearance, and modern colour choices can revitalise the interior.

Disadvantages of Using Paint on Walls

Painting a wall comes with several disadvantages that every property owner must know.

  • Only a very small range of finishes, including matte and glossy, can be produced by paint.
  • Additionally, paint develops cracks over time, necessitating more frequent reapplication and touch-ups.
  • Applying paint to walls can be untidy, and it’s simple to get stains on your floors, ceilings, furniture, or appliances.
  • You may not be able to apply heavy oil-based paint yourself because it dries more slowly than you would expect and frequently needs to be applied by a professional. Oil-based paints are also less heat resistant and tend to flow when applied.
  • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are bad for the human body, can also be released by paint.
  • There is a greater likelihood that you will repaint more periodically even though paint lasts 5 to 10 years.

Advantages of Using Wallpaper 

Wallpaper with a design of large trees and dense woods in a drawing room.

  • Wallpaper is cost-effective in the long run because it can endure up to Fifteen years and even longer. (Adequately hung wallpaper will outlast paint by three times)
  • Wallpaper covers a variety of surface imperfections and adheres to walls effortlessly.
  • It may give a room a sense of warmth, depth, and flair that monochrome paint simply cannot.
  • A room’s décor is significantly influenced by stunning prints, interesting textures, and attractive designs.
  • Wallpaper may be utilised to add a designer touch to any room and can even be used as a mural on one wall.
  • Wallpaper is available in a dizzying variety of patterns and stunning effects, including pearl or glitter, raised fonts, foils, embossed silk patterns, and natural grasscloth. 

Disadvantages of Using Wallpaper 

Higher Cost-  Is wallpaper more expensive than paint? Well, wallpaper comes with a heftier upfront price, but it can be cost-effective in the long run. Despite claims of easy removal, the process can be laborious and demanding without proper preparation. Consulting an interior designer and wallpaper expert beforehand is advisable.

Hard To Replace – Wallpaper patterns can be hard to replace. Changing the wallpaper might be a problem because the wall is damaged. Ordering a different wallpaper roll could not match if you ever need to fix a wall with it. There is also a role for dye lots.

Installation Complexity - While we mentioned simplicity, the truth is, installing wallpaper can be quite challenging. Unless you're experienced, matching seam designs and selecting appropriate adhesives can be daunting. Expertise in this lost art is key for optimal results.

Paper Is Running Low – A skilled specialist will ensure you order enough wallpaper to finish your project but the lack of availability of the exact design might be an issue you will never face with paint. 

Interacting With the Space – The inappropriate wallpaper pattern can overpower or contrast with the space. To make the best decision, you, therefore, need the assistance of an interior designer.

One advantage of interior painting is that it makes your house more attractive.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing Between Painting

  • Aesthetic Appeal
  • Maintenance Requirements
  • Durability
  • Prep and Application
  • Usage
  • Price
  • Variety and Customisation

Which is More Attractive: Texture Paint vs Wallpaper? 

Indian walls can be effectively decorated with wallpaper or paint to improve their aesthetic appeal. Create gorgeous backgrounds for your furniture with textured paints or eye-catching patterned wallpaper. Let your imagination run wild and infuse each space with your unique design.

Which is More Maintenance-Friendly?

To keep it in top condition, your paintwork might require a yearly touch-up. Each sort of paint has its own set of maintenance guidelines. Apart from that, attempt to protect it from the effects of nature. Discover the perfect paint for your walls.

Wallpaper is relatively easier to keep clean. It must only be cleaned with a moist towel to look brand new!

The Durability Factor – Wallpaper Vs. Wall Paint

When considering the durability factor in the choice between wallpaper and paint, it's essential to weigh their respective lifespans and upkeep requirements.

Durability and UpkeepWallpaperPaint
LifespanLasts 10 – 15 yearsRequires a new coat every 3 – 5 years
MaintenanceMost wallpaper is washable by designWashable designs are available but cost extra
Moisture ResistancePeels and cracks with moisture exposureResists moisture and heat

Read: Washable Wall Paint: A Durable and Stain-Resistant Solution for Your Home

Process of Application

Applying wallpaper is not a task that can be completed on your own. It is best to hire professionals. If you wish to paint your house, this is untrue. That operation is relatively simple, so you could paint your own house if you’d like to. However, you would need a lot of time, effort, and excitement for that. In India, where labour is plentiful and reasonably priced, the majority of the working population engages skilled individuals to complete their tasks.

Wallpaper or Paint Which is Better?

Consider the area of your home in question when trying to decide between wallpaper and paint. Although paint is often appropriate for all rooms in the house, excessive heat can shorten the lifespan of painted walls. As a result, one ends up paying for frequent repainting, which explains the significant difference in price between wallpaper and paints in India.

Similarly to this, wallpaper doesn’t hold up well in hot, humid spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. Wallpaper is probably best avoided in high-traffic areas and kid’s rooms because it is easily torn or damaged.

Wallpaper vs Paint Cost Comparison

Cost Comparison: Wallpaper vs. PaintWallpaperPaint
Upfront CostHigherLower
InstallationUsually requires a proDIY-friendly
OptionsWide range of inexpensive and expensive optionsWide range of inexpensive and expensive options
LongevityLasts longer, potentially more cost-effective in the long termRequires periodic repainting
SuppliesRequires specialized tools and expertise for installationRequires basic supplies like brushes, primer, and trays
LabourOften involves professional installationCan be done as a DIY project
Overall CostHigher initial investment but potential long-term savingsLower upfront cost with recurring expenses for repainting

When considering the cost factors between wallpaper and paint, it's important to evaluate both the upfront expenses and the long-term implications. While wallpaper comes with a higher initial investment due to professional installation and specialized supplies, its durability can lead to potential cost savings over time. On the other hand, paint offers a lower upfront cost and is more DIY-friendly, but it requires periodic repainting, which can accumulate costs over the years. Ultimately, the choice depends on your budget, preferences, and the value you place on long-term durability.

Variety and Customisation Options

Customisation opportunities with paint are abundant. You can create paints in any colour you can imagine. To create a precisely customised colour, you can choose from thousands of paint swatches or combine tints and hues.

In India, Wallpaper is a relatively new player. Although there are many different standard designs offered in shops all over the country, it can be difficult to locate a vendor who will print out unique patterns.Keep in mind that only smoothed walls can be used for both wallpaper and paint applications when deciding between the two. Wallpaper for your opulent drawing room and paint to enliven other spaces, including the kids’ bedrooms, are also options you can go within your home. This will give each room in your home a distinctive personality. Choose accordingly, then deck your walls with gorgeous decorations.

Optimal Choices for Wallpaper and Paint in Different Rooms

When considering the ideal application of paint and wallpaper in your home, it's important to recognize their respective strengths in different spaces.

Best Rooms for Wallpaper

Wallpaper flourishes in areas where its decorative potential can shine without being exposed to excessive wear and tear. Consider using wallpaper in:

  • Living rooms: Elevate your common areas with visually striking wallpaper patterns to create a warm and inviting ambience.
  • Dining rooms: Add an extra layer of elegance and sophistication to your dining experience through well-chosen wallpaper.
  • Bedrooms: Personalize your private spaces with wallpaper designs that reflect your style and create a tranquil atmosphere.

Ideal Rooms for Paint

Paint is versatile and durable, making it a great choice for high-traffic and functional spaces. Opt for paint in:

  • Kitchens and bathrooms: These areas often experience humidity and temperature changes, making paint's resilience more suitable.
  • Hallways and entryways: Paint can withstand heavy foot traffic and is easier to clean in these frequently used passages.

Kids' rooms and play areas: The flexibility to change colours as preferences evolve makes the paint a practical option for growing spaces.

Home design offers myriad choices, notably in Paint or Wallpaper. Whether it's subtle hues or bold statements, your decision is shaped by the Paint or Wallpaper price. Blending both, like acrylic Paint or Wallpaper, can be visually pleasing. Choosing between Paint or Wallpaper for home interiors is often a dilemma. Consulting a NoBroker expert can align your style and budget, ensuring the best outcome. Interested in a consultation? Comment below, and our team will reach out soon.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Which is cheaper, paint or wallpaper?

Answer - The cost of paint and wallpaper can be anywhere between cheap and expensive. On average, paint is less expensive, requires few supplies, and is easy for a novice to use. The cost of wallpaper is typically higher when it is purchased in rolls, as materials, and when it is installed.

Q2. Are wallpapers better than paint?

Answer: Wallpaper has a high sustainability and dependability rating and can last up to 15 years. However, wall coatings have the propensity to crack readily. Paints need to be touched up each year or two, even if they can endure for 5–6 years on a well-prepared surface.

Q3. Does wallpapering have to be done before painting?

Answer - The National Association of Professional Paperhangers and most home renovation professionals agree that wallpaper should always be removed before painting since you'll get better results and fewer issues later on.

Q4. On painted walls, is wallpaper an option?

Answer: Wallpaper can be laid on any painted wall, whether glossy, lustrous, plastic, or oil-based. Before painting, the house needs to be primed. Wallpaper that won't absorb water uses primer as a basis. This feature of priming makes it easier to install wallpaper.

Q5. Do I have to line the walls before hanging the wallpaper?

Answer: You must always line the walls before hanging paper for a few reasons. The first is that the lining will have much greater adhesion for your finished paper than bare or coloured plaster. After you hang the finished paper, the lining paper will likewise slightly expand before contracting as the paste dries.

Q6. Chalkboard Wallpaper vs Paint - which is better for my space? 

Answer: Chalkboard wallpaper is easier to apply and remove, offering a seamless and diverse range of patterns. Chalkboard paint, on the other hand, provides a more traditional chalkboard feel but requires a more labour-intensive application and is permanent. Your choice depends on your preference for convenience versus authenticity.

Q7. Is it cheaper to paint or wallpaper?

Answer: The cost comparison between painting and wallpapering largely depends on various factors, including the quality of materials and the size of the area being covered. Generally, painting can be more cost-effective initially, but high-quality wallpaper often lasts longer, potentially offering better value over time.

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