When it comes to redecorating your home, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: should I go for wall paint or wallpaper?
While both options have their own appeal, wall paint over wallpaper continues to be the top choice for many homeowners in the UK—and for good reason.
At GSM Builders, we believe that choosing the right finish for your walls is not just about looks, but also about practicality, cost, and long-term satisfaction.
In this blog, we’ll explore five compelling reasons why paint may be the better option for your next renovation or home makeover project.
1. Wall Paint Offers More Flexibility in Colour and Finish
One of the biggest advantages of wall paint over wallpaper is the sheer range of colours and finishes available. Paint allows you to experiment with everything from warm neutrals to bold accent walls, all customised to your style and lighting conditions. You can choose from:
- Matt finishes for a smooth, non-reflective look
- Silk or satin finishes for a slight sheen and easy cleaning
- Eggshell and semi-gloss for more durability
Unlike wallpaper, which comes in pre-designed patterns and limited colour combinations, wall paint gives you full control. Whether you’re colour-drenching a space, creating a feature wall, or simply freshening up a neutral tone, paint lets you change your room’s vibe quickly and affordably.
2. Easier to Apply and Update Over Time
Paint is much easier to apply than wallpaper—and even easier to refresh or update. All you need is a roller, a brush, and a few hours. There’s no need to deal with adhesive, air bubbles, or complex alignment. Even for beginners or DIYers, painting a room is a far less stressful task.
In contrast, wallpaper application can be tedious, requiring precision and sometimes a professional hand.
And when it comes time to remove or update it, wallpaper often damages the wall or leaves behind sticky residue. With wall paint, a simple sanding or undercoat can prep the wall for a brand-new look.
This ease of use makes wall paint the ideal option for renters, growing families, or anyone who loves to change their decor regularly.
Read Also: How to Choose the Perfect Wall Paint for Your Home?
3. Cost-Effective and Budget-Friendly
Choosing wall paint over wallpaper is often a more affordable option—both in terms of materials and labour. High-quality wallpaper can be expensive per roll, and you usually need several rolls for one room. Then, you may also need a professional installer, adding to the cost.
Paint, on the other hand, is widely available, competitively priced, and can be applied by yourself or a professional decorator. Plus, you won’t need as many tools or accessories. This makes it easier to stick to a budget without compromising on style.
Even better, touch-ups with paint are simple and inexpensive. If you scratch or mark a painted wall, you can fix it in minutes. With wallpaper, a small tear may require replacing the whole strip—or worse, the entire wall.
4. Wall Paint Is More Durable in Humid or Busy Areas
In many British homes, especially older ones, humidity and condensation are common issues—especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and even hallways. Wall paint performs far better than wallpaper in these conditions.
Modern wall paints are available in moisture-resistant, washable, and anti-mould formulas. This makes them perfect for high-traffic or high-moisture spaces. Wallpaper, on the other hand, tends to peel or bubble in damp areas, leading to unsightly finishes and frequent replacements.
Painted walls are also easier to clean. Stains, fingerprints, or smudges can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, especially if you use durable finishes like satin or eggshell. In contrast, wallpaper may absorb stains or tear when cleaned.
5. Better for Custom Designs and Unique Spaces
If your room has unusual angles, uneven surfaces, or architectural features like alcoves, beams, or niches—paint is the more adaptable choice. Wallpaper requires precise cutting and matching, which becomes increasingly difficult in awkward or tight spaces.
With wall paint, you can easily blend colour into any corner, shape, or texture. You can also get creative with design trends like:
- Ombre walls
- Geometric paint patterns
- Two-tone or half-painted walls
- Ceiling painting for added drama
These effects are much harder to achieve with wallpaper. In short, if you want your space to be truly yours, wall paint gives you the tools to bring your vision to life.
Additional Tips When Choosing Wall Paint Over Wallpaper
- Always test a paint sample first. Colours can appear different depending on natural or artificial lighting.
- Use primers when necessary. They help new paint adhere better and provide a more even finish.
- Choose eco-friendly options. Many UK paint brands now offer low-VOC or odour-free paints, better for your health and the environment.
People Also Ask:
Is wall paint cheaper than wallpaper in the UK?
Yes. On average, paint is less expensive to purchase and apply. Wallpaper tends to have higher material and labour costs.
Can you paint over wallpaper?
It’s possible, but not ideal. Painting directly over wallpaper may result in peeling or bubbling. It’s best to remove wallpaper first.
Which lasts longer: paint or wallpaper?
Quality wallpaper can last longer under perfect conditions, but painted walls are easier to maintain and repair, making them more practical for everyday use.
What paint is best for UK homes?
Look for washable, mould-resistant options in brands like Dulux, Crown, Farrow & Ball, or Johnstone’s for reliable performance.
Final Thoughts: Why Paint Wins
While wallpaper can be beautiful and stylish, wall paint offers more flexibility, better value, and easier upkeep. It allows you to change your interiors with the seasons or your mood. It adapts better to the everyday demands of UK homes—from our ever-changing weather to our varied architecture.
Whether you’re painting a single room or renovating the whole house, wall paint is a smart and creative way to refresh your home’s personality. At GSM Builders, we’ve helped countless homeowners achieve stunning results with professional painting services, colour advice, and finish selection.
So before you shop for rolls of wallpaper, consider a fresh coat of paint instead.
Ready to transform your home? Contact us for expert painting and decorating services across the UK. Let’s bring your vision to life one wall at a time.
