Wall Paint vs Wallpaper: Which Is Best for Your Home?

Are you looking to spruce up the walls in your home but can't decide between paint or wallpaper? Both wall paint and wallpaper have advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, durability, and ease of installation. This article explores the key differences between wall paint and wallpaper to help you determine the best fit for your home.

What is a Wall Wallpaper?

Wallpaper is a decorative covering for walls made of materials like vinyl, fabric, or paper. It comes in various colours, patterns, and textures to suit any design aesthetic. By adding visual interest, texture, and colour to otherwise plain walls, wallpaper can completely transform the look and feel of a room. Choosing the right wallpaper is an important design decision. You should devote adequate time before selecting the right wallpaper.

The Different Types of Wallpapers

Wallpapers are available in various types, each with its characteristics. Here are a few wallpaper options you can consider:

White Wallpaper

White wallpaper offers a clean and bright look. It can make interior spaces appear larger and more airy, and it can help create a blank canvas look for rooms.

Green Wallpaper

Green wallpaper brings vibrancy and natural flair. From sage to emerald, the green shade evokes renewal and freshness. It can be an elegant choice for dining rooms.

Blue Wallpaper

Blue wallpaper can help one induce a soothing and tranquil environment. Light blues can help create an open atmosphere, while navy blue shade can add a rich and sophisticated feel. It is a great option for bedrooms.

Pink Wallpaper

Pink wallpaper can infuse spaces with energy and whimsy. The soft pink shade, particularly, can help cultivate romance and femininity. Vibrant hot pink shades can make a dramatic style statement.

Gym Wallpaper (for home gym)

Gym wallpapers usually feature motivational imagery and bright colours to energise the atmosphere of home gyms. Materials like vinyl are waterproof, making them great for home workout spaces.

Also Read: Types of Wall Paint Finishes for Your Home

What is Wall Paint?

Wall paint is simply paint specifically formulated for use on interior walls. It comes in various shades and can be purchased either premixed or separately as paint and primer.

Exploring the Variety of Wall Paint Options

Wall paint offers many options when it comes to colours and finishes. Here are some options one can consider:

• Flat: It provides a matte look that masks imperfections
• Eggshell: This mid-sheen pattern resists stains and is scrubbable
• Satin: This smooth pattern comes with a hint of shine
• Semi-gloss: It is a wipeable pattern with medium-high shine
• High-gloss: This pattern offers reflective shine and a durable finish

Wall Paint comes in several colour options. From bright whites to deep, bold hues, one can select the right shade. Importantly, one can customise the exact shade they desire. Nerolac Beauty Gold Washable is a top-paint option for walls.

Advantages of Wall Wallpaper

Wallpaper offers some unique benefits compared to regular wall paint colours. They include:

Durability and Design Flexibility

• Vinyl wallpaper is designed to last up to 20 years without fading or peeling, while other papers last 3-5 years on average.
• Wallpaper comes in endless colors, prints, and textures, allowing one to make a bold style statement.
• One can easily change the entire look by installing new wallpaper over the existing one.

Easy to Install and Remove

• Peel-and-stick wallpapers make installation a breeze with no requirements for pasting.
• Wallpaper can be easily removed when it is time for a change without damaging the walls underneath. Paint requires more prep for changes.

Advantages of Wall Paint

Paint has its own assets that make it a popular wall-covering choice. Some important benefits include the following:

Simple Application and Maintenance

• Painting walls is a relatively easy DIY project for most homeowners. Usually, there is no requirement for professional help.
• Paint touch-ups are quick and simple for concealing scuffs or marks over time.

Cost-effective and Variety

• Paint is generally more economical upfront compared to higher-quality wallpapers.
• Paint usually comes in any imaginable colour, allowing bold and vibrant shades for your walls.

Also Read: 7 Features to Look Out for When Choosing Wall Paint

Wall Wallpaper vs. Wall Paint: Which Is Best for Your Home?

Here’s how one can select the best option for their home:

Factors to Consider When Choosing

Consider your budget, expected duration, style goals, and room purpose when selecting between the two.

• Budget: Paint is more affordable upfront, while wallpaper offers long-lasting durability
• Design style: Wallpaper enables bold prints and textures, while paints offer durable designs
• Room purpose: Wallpaper works well in formal living spaces or bedrooms. Paints offer practicality.

Which Is Better for Specific Rooms?

Wallpaper tends to suit bedrooms and formal spaces like dining rooms. Serene patterns or vibrant prints turn these rooms into oases, and their longevity prevents constant redecoration.

Paint is the more practical option for spaces like hallways, kids’ rooms, kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture resistance and frequent touch-ups are key.

Conclusion

When choosing between wallpaper and paint, consider factors like room purpose, budget, ease of application, and design goals. Wallpaper makes a striking style statement, while paint offers affordability and versatility. Determine which qualities matter the most for your lifestyle and rooms before selecting the best wall covering to turn your house into a home.