Why wallpaper trumps paint

With spring cleaning over and done with, a change or two around your home might be just the project to welcome the summer months that are fast approaching.

Sure, you could buy some new cushions or give the guest bedroom a fresh coat of white paint...
or perhaps we could tempt you to try wallpaper?

More than anything else, wallpaper can completely transform a room by adding texture, pattern, print or colour. But maybe you’re worried that wallpaper can be more costly, especially since installation requires a professional? Or, perhaps those commitment issues start to flare up when considering the seeming permanence of such a decor choice? Whatever the reason for your wallpaper virginity, we understand. Hopefully, the suggestions to follow over the next few posts will help you through the process of creating an amazing new wallpapered space that will be the pride of your home this summer.

Over the next few weeks we will briefly discuss:

1)      Choosing the right space

2)      Establishing your goal

3)      Exploring your options

4)      Picking your paper

5)      Inspiration and what’s trending

But today, why we think wallpaper K.O’s paint.

   WALLPAPER VS. PAINT

Obviously the effect of a painted room cannot even begin to compare to that which can be created by the incredible varieties of wallpaper available today. 

            Exhibit A:

But other than the obvious aesthetic benefits, did you know that vinyl wallcoverings can also be a wise economical choice? A cost analysis conducted by a Canadian Wallcoverings Corp revealed that under normal usage conditions, vinyl will retain its original beauty and performance characteristics for at least 15 years, whereas a painted surface must be cleaned more frequently and repainted approximately every three years to maintain its appearance. 

Using vinyl 
can save you 
over 35% when compared 
with paint.

Based on the Hite Report by Jim Hite, the figures show that over 15 years using vinyl wallcoverings will result in a savings of more than 35%.* So, rather than getting caught up on the expense of the initial outlay, we encourage you to adopt a "bigger picture" perspective and start imagining what else you can do with the money you will save from your investment in wallpaper.

            Thats: 1 - nil to wallpaper.

That leaves those who may have a fear of commitment. 

Don't worry. Although wallpaper glue will be used in installation it doesn't mean you will be "stuck" with a paper that you may eventually tire of. (pun intended)

Paint over textured vinyl for a easily changed but durable surface

When undertaken by a professional, wallpaper can be stripped and removed easily and will obviously 
cost you a lot less than the installation.

For a space you would like to keep relatively accessible to change, such as a baby's nursery that will evolve as your child grows up, textured vinyl wallpaper is a great investment as it can be painted over as required. 

      Tip from Jon...

To take advantage of the texture of the existing wallpaper, seal it with Resene Vinyl Wallpaper Sealer prior to painting to avoid a sticky finish caused by a reaction between the plasticiser in the vinyl and the paint. 

            2 - nil to wallpaper. 

           We have a winner!

*For more details, read here.