Install wallpaper over painted walls

To install wallpaper the wall needs to be properly finished, primed, and painted. 

Failure to install wallpaper over a proper surface might result in either wallpaper bonding to the sheetrock, or wallpaper failure due to insufficient adhesion. 

BEST PAINT FINISH

For optimal removability we recommend paint finishes like sateen or gloss. Matte and flat finishes are more rough so wallpapers tend to stick stronger. During removal paint chips might come off. 

PRIMER ONLY

New constructions are often only primed. You can install a peel and stick over just primer. Because they are flat finish, and often applied in just 1 layer, expect primer chips lifting off during removal.

OLD WALLS 

Old walls painted with matte finish tend to crack and lift easily. Assess carefully old walls as peel and stick adhesive gets ruined when paint sticks to it.

RECENTLY PAINTED WALLS 

Recently painted walls should be let dry for 4 weeks before applying any wallpaper. Paints emit low grade fumes for weeks after application, the "fresh paint" smell. If you install wallpaper those fumes have nowhere to go, will generate massive bubbles on your wallpaper.

LOW OR ZERO VOC PAINTS:

Low VOC paints are a challenge for wallpaper installations as they cause the wallpaper to lift the wall. A simple solution for the problem is to clean the wall with 70% rubbing alcohol, let dry completely, and afterwards proceed with the wallpaper installation. 

SCUFF DEFENSE AND STAIN BLOCKING PAINTS: 

Stain blocking paints are formulated to block anything trying to get bonded or through it. Scuff Defense paints have a similar purpose. Both types of paints tend to cause issues with peel and stick wallpapers, from mild lifting to complete fall off the wall.

Getting a sample and trying it on the wall is the only way to test if the peel and stick will hold there.