Wallpaper vs. Paint: Which Is Best for Your Home?
When planning a home refresh, one of the first big decisions you’ll make is how to finish your walls. Do you stick with tried-and-true paint, or explore the creative possibilities of wallpaper?
Both options bring unique benefits, but the right choice often comes down to your style, budget, and how you use the space.
At Intracoastal Wallcoverings in Wilmington, NC, we help homeowners navigate this choice every day. Here’s a closer look at wallpaper vs. paint and how to decide which is best for your home.
1. Style and Design Possibilities
Wallpaper offers virtually endless design options. From bold murals to subtle textures like grasscloth, patterned wallpaper adds depth, texture, and character that paint simply can’t replicate. It’s especially effective for statement walls, dining rooms, or entryways where you want an elevated look.
Paint, while versatile, generally provides solid color finishes or basic faux textures. It’s a great way to quickly refresh a space but doesn’t offer the same dimensional quality as wallpaper.
For homeowners who want to go beyond basics, wallpaper is the clear winner.
See our selection of custom wallpapers that go beyond what paint can achieve.
HGTV’s wallpaper inspiration gallery showcases how creative wallpaper can transform a room.
2. Durability and Longevity
Wallpaper: High-quality wallpaper, when installed by professionals, can last 10–15 years or more. It stands up well in busy households, resisting scratches and scuffs that would quickly show on painted walls.
Paint: Most painted walls need touch-ups or complete repainting every 3–5 years, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, or kids’ rooms.
If you want a finish that lasts—and saves you from frequent updates—wallpaper is the stronger choice.
3. Maintenance and Cleaning
Wallpaper: Modern wallpapers are made with wipeable or washable finishes, making them ideal for spaces that see daily use. Kitchens, mudrooms, and entryways benefit from their easy-to-clean surfaces.
Paint: While easier to spot-touch with a brush, paint often shows wear faster, particularly in high-contact areas. Fingerprints, scuffs, and chips tend to stand out, requiring more frequent upkeep.
Your family’s lifestyle plays a big role here. For homes with kids, pets, or heavy use, wallpaper can often be the more practical option.
See how our wallpaper projects stay beautiful even in high-use spaces.
4. Cost Considerations
Wallpaper: The upfront cost of wallpaper, both in materials and professional installation, is generally higher than paint. However, when you factor in its lifespan, wallpaper often proves more cost-effective in the long run.
Paint: Lower upfront cost makes paint appealing for quick projects. But with more frequent repainting, costs can add up over the years.
Think of wallpaper as an investment in both durability and design impact, while paint serves as a budget-friendly short-term solution.
Fixr compares wallpaper vs. paint to highlight cost and performance differences.
5. Installation and Removal
Wallpaper: While today’s wallpapers are easier to remove than older styles, installation still requires precision. Seams must align perfectly, patterns must repeat correctly, and textured materials demand expertise. Hiring a professional wallpaper installer in Wilmington ensures a polished, long-lasting result.
Paint: More DIY-friendly, though specialty finishes or textured effects still often require a professional painter.
For many homeowners, the decision comes down to whether you want a quick DIY refresh or a professional-grade design feature.
Get a quote for professional wallpaper installation in Wilmington, NC.
FAQs: Wallpaper vs. Paint
Is wallpaper more expensive than paint?
Yes initially, but wallpaper’s long lifespan often makes it more cost-effective in the long run.
Can I combine wallpaper and paint in one room?
Absolutely. Many homeowners paint most of the walls and use wallpaper as an accent feature. This pairing balances cost and creativity.
What if I want to change my wallpaper in a few years?
Modern wallpaper is designed for easier removal, especially when installed correctly. Updates are simpler than they used to be.
The Right Choice for Your Walls
So which option is best for your Wilmington home: wallpaper or paint? It depends on your goals:
- Choose wallpaper if you want unmatched design potential, durability, and long-term value.
- Choose paint if you prefer flexibility, lower upfront costs, or frequent style changes.
At Intracoastal Wallcoverings, we specialize in helping homeowners achieve interior spaces that reflect their personality and lifestyle. From custom wall coverings in Wilmington NC to professional installation, we bring expertise and precision to every project.
Thinking wallpaper might be the winner? Contact us to see how our team can bring your walls to life.
