When it comes to designing the interiors of our homes, homeowners often struggle with selecting the right wall finish. With so many available options, it can be overwhelming to choose between painting or wallpaper. Painting has been the most popular choice for decades, but wallpaper has recently gained a lot of attention. Let’s compare the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision for your Quad Cities home.

Painting Interior Wall

Pros: Painting is a quicker and less expensive option than wallpaper. It also allows you to be more creative with finishes, textures, and options like stripes or ombre. You can easily change the color if you want a new look. Additionally, painting is relatively easy and can be done by one person; you don’t need a professional unless you’re attempting something more intricate like a mural.

Cons: Depending on the colors and sheen you choose, the painting may need to be touched up frequently. You also need to prepare the walls properly for paint to properly adhere to them. If you have kids or pets, it’s more likely that walls will get damaged, and you may need to repaint more frequently.

Interior Wallpaper

Pros: Wallpaper adds a unique and personalized feel to any room, and comes in an array of designs, patterns, and textures, which can make your walls a unique work of art. Wallpaper can effectively hide imperfections and provide an extra layer of insulation to your walls. Depending on the quality, wallpaper can last significantly longer than paint.

Cons: Wallpaper can be difficult to install, often requires a professional to ensure it comes out looking good and even. Wallpaper is typically more expensive than paint because of its higher durability and the need for specialized tools and skills to install. The patterns can be overwhelming and challenging to work with as you’re trying to match them to the colors and furniture in the room.

Deciding between paint and wallpaper

1. Consider the feel and look you are going for when picking either paint or wallpaper. Your budget will also play a role. Paint is relatively cheaper than wallpaper, while the latter can vary in price depending on the quality and design. Finally, consider the current condition of the walls – if they have holes or bumps, wallpaper might be a better choice to mask any imperfections.
2. Trends in interior design: Although paint has always been popular amongst homeowners, wallpaper is making its way into modern interior design trends. The focus in interior design is now on creating focal points that are bold and unique, which wallpaper can provide. Glamourous touches to look out for include velvet wallpaper, metallic sheen wallpaper, flat geometric patterns, and botanicals.
3. Final thoughts: Each wall finish has its unique advantages and disadvantages that appeal to different homeowners and interior styles. Therefore, it’s essential first to determine which design fits your style and layout of your room, followed by your budget and the longevity of the finish. Ultimately, both paint and wallpaper could work for the same look; it merely depends on which option aligns with your style, personal preferences, and budget.

Interior Painting vs. Wallpaper

Your choice between paint and wallpaper may typically be influenced by personal preferences, budget, and the wall’s existing condition. When selecting your wall finish, prioritize what makes you feel happiest and sticking within your budget. Either way, both paint and wallpaper can be fantastic options for any homeowner’s interior design project, and with the options available in the Quad Cities, the possibilities are endless.