We want to paint over the wallpaper in our bathroom. What kind of primer should we use? -Dwayne

Hi Dwayne,
As long as the wallpaper has a smooth surface, is firmly glued to the wall, and isn’t made of vinyl, you should be able to paint over it. Start by examining the wallpaper with a bright light held flat against the wall to look for any imperfections. Next, fill any dents with joint compound and glue any loose seams.

Even though it’s more trouble to use, oil or shellac-based primer works best when priming over wallpaper since it reduces the chance of bleeding through and won’t loosen the glue holding the paper to the wall like a water-based primer can. Once the primer has dried, paint over it with two coats of high-quality latex paint.

Good luck with your project,

Danny
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Danny Lipford

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Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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