Applying wallpaper on top of exisiting wallpaper or strip

Doing up an old cottage (this is for the bedroom). The wallpaper there currently is lifting slightly in a few patches. I am having a debate on whether to strip the old wallpaper which is currently there, and there is hardboard behind it, then apply lining paper directly onto the hardboard (I know adhesing this can be an issue), or if I should tidy up the current old wallpaper and apply lining paper/new wallpaper directly on top of this. I would like to strip the old wallpaper as I feel it is old, dirty, and applying something on top of it feels disgusting and half a job, but someone is saying I should just do this. Also will lining paper adhesive directly onto hardboard? And would there be the option of only putting lining paper on top of hardboard (would possibly have to be 2 layers to even it out) and then painting the lining paper or would you have to put up 1 layer of lining paper and then 1 layer of wallpaper on top? And what adhesive would be best to put lining paper straight on top of hardboard? And if I did have to apply a layer of wallpaper on top of lining paper what adhesive is best for this? Thank you!

26 Answers

Plastering
0 Reviews
Standard adhesive consists of cellulose ether and starch - the right choice for light to heavy paper-based wallpapers. Special adhesive contains synthetic resin in order to increase the adhesive strength - perfect for heavy wallpapers like wood-chip, vinyl, anaglypta or textured wallpapers.1
15th May 2023
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I would advise to strip the wallpaper off the wall and then make sure your fall is nice and prepped and apply fresh wallpaper
12th Jun 2023
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My building
0 Reviews
Is the best to doing 1 layer of lining paper and then 1 layer wallpaper on the top
15th Jun 2023
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Wallpaper
0 Reviews
You want to remove old wallpaper for the best result
20th Jun 2023
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Always strip peel the top layer off paper off them wet the backing paper give it 2 minutes then it will fall off

If your painting after stripping uts essential to get all remaining paste off the wall
3rd Jul 2023
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CC Builders
0 Reviews
as long the hardboard dont have any holes or dips in i dont see my not i would strip the old wallpaper off an apply with new backing paper and and fresh wallpaper to get the nice finish
18th Jul 2023
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Danny's
0 Reviews
Ok. First of all you are thinking at to many layers of paper/lining paper.
Lining paper is used for really damaged walls , not on top of existing paper.
If the old paper is strongly bind to the wall and just a few patches here and there , recommend fixing the patches and wallpapering on top of existing one.
You can also just remove the old paper with new paper , no lining paper required.
22nd Jun 2023
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Tanners Trades
0 Reviews
I would remove the old wallpaper. If it's already lifting in patches then over time it will do the same. Easiest way for cost effective in long run is just to grim the fact its going to be removed.
Hardwood can be papered just sand it a little and use a thin mixed solution and it should be fine. Thanks.
Tanners Trades.
3rd Jul 2023
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Solvite All Purpose Extra Strong Wallpaper Paste
31st Aug 2023
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Kentdec Ltd
2 Reviews, 100% Positive
Get a plasterer. Much cheaper than messing about.
1st Sep 2023
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Lam'b gardens
0 Reviews
Strip it then put lining paper up then your wallpaper
19th Sep 2023
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Remove the old peeling wallpaper and apply backing paper, then apply some new wallpaper.

Extra strong adhesive would be best for applying the backing paper and also for the wallpaper on top.
17th Aug 2023
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House services and maintenance
1 Reviews, 100% Positive
Renovating an old cottage can be a rewarding project, and your approach to the wallpaper depends on your preferences and the condition of the walls. Here are some considerations for your options:

Option 1: Removing Old Wallpaper and Applying Lining Paper Directly on Hardboard:

Stripping the old wallpaper and applying lining paper directly onto the hardboard is a good choice if the old wallpaper is in poor condition.
Lining paper can adhere to hardboard, but it's essential to prepare the hardboard properly. Make sure it's clean, smooth, and free from any loose or damaged sections.
Use a good quality wallpaper adhesive suitable for lining paper and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
You can paint the lining paper directly or apply wallpaper over it if you prefer.
Option 2: Tidying Up the Old Wallpaper and Applying Lining Paper/New Wallpaper on Top:

This option can save time and effort if the existing wallpaper is in decent condition and well-adhered.
Ensure that you smooth out any lifting edges and securely glue them down before applying lining paper or new wallpaper on top.
You can use lining paper as a base for new wallpaper or paint if the existing wallpaper has a textured or uneven surface.
For applying lining paper directly onto hardboard or over existing wallpaper:

Use a wallpaper adhesive specifically designed for lining paper or heavyweight wallpapers.
Follow the adhesive manufacturer's instructions for mixing and application.
If you decide to apply a layer of wallpaper over the lining paper:

Ensure that the lining paper is fully adhered and has no bubbles or loose edges before applying wallpaper.
Use a wallpaper adhesive suitable for the type of wallpaper you're applying (e.g., vinyl wallpaper, non-woven wallpaper, etc.).
Ultimately, the choice between stripping the old wallpaper and starting fresh or working with the existing wallpaper depends on your preferences and the condition of the current wall covering. Just ensure that the surface is properly prepared and the adhesives used are suitable for the materials you're working with. Good luck with your cottage renovation!
18th Sep 2023
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Painter and decorator
1 Reviews, 100% Positive
1 Strip old wallpaper
2 fill and send walls
3 prime
4 lining paper in case if needed
5 install new wallpaper
26th Sep 2023
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No, First you should remove the wallpaper, then wait until it dries up, then sand it, then add the lining wallpaper. Then just paint it over it but when IT IS DRY.
26th Sep 2023
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Adrian stolarek
0 Reviews
Stripping Old Wallpaper: Removing old wallpaper is ideal for a fresh start.

Lining Paper on Hardboard: You can put lining paper directly on hardboard using heavy-duty wallpaper adhesive.

Option for Paint: If you want to paint, two layers of lining paper, then paint, is enough. No need for additional wallpaper.

Applying Wallpaper Over Lining Paper: If you choose wallpaper, use wallpaper adhesive over smooth lining paper.

Ensure surfaces are clean and follow product instructions for the best results
29th Sep 2023
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I wouldn't recommend it as it won't stick as good and if the paper has a texture on it or bad over laps on it. The chances are they will all show and you will be back to square one so I recommend to strip it first for best result
1st Nov 2023
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Decor27
0 Reviews
You'd have to strip the old wallpaper because if you lay new paper on top of old paper, the paste will reactivate the old paste and you will get bubbles in your new wallpaper
Always strip old wallpaper.
4th Dec 2023
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Damien nicholls
0 Reviews
I would always advise to strip old wallpaper before fitting new for best possible finish
8th Jan 2024
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Plastopaint ltd
0 Reviews
Strip and pva seal before lining !
16th Jan 2024
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ATIF painter
0 Reviews
Here are some considerations and recommendations for your situation:

1. **Stripping vs. Papering Over:**
- Stripping the old wallpaper and starting with a clean surface is generally the best approach for long-term durability and a professional finish. It allows you to address any underlying issues and ensures better adhesion of the new wallcovering.
- While papering over existing wallpaper may seem like a quicker solution, it can lead to problems such as poor adhesion, uneven surfaces, and potential issues with the old wallpaper coming loose over time.

2. **Lining Paper on Hardboard:**
- Lining paper can be applied directly onto hardboard, but proper preparation is essential. Ensure the hardboard is clean, dry, and free from any dust or debris.
- Use a good quality adhesive specifically designed for wallpapering, following the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times.

3. **Options for Finishing:**
- You have the option to apply one or two layers of lining paper to even out the surface before painting. Alternatively, you can apply a single layer of lining paper followed by wallpaper if desired.
- If you choose to paint the lining paper, make sure to use a high-quality paint suitable for walls, and consider using a primer or sealer before painting for better adhesion and durability.

4. **Adhesive Recommendations:**
- For applying lining paper directly onto hardboard, a heavy-duty wallpaper adhesive designed for difficult surfaces such as hardboard or wood paneling would be ideal.
- When applying wallpaper on top of lining paper, use a standard wallpaper adhesive suitable for the type of wallpaper you're using (e.g., paste-the-wall or paste-the-paper).

5. **Considerations for Durability:**
- Keep in mind the intended use of the room and the level of wear and tear the walls will experience. If the room will be subject to moisture or frequent cleaning, choosing a durable wallcovering and ensuring proper adhesion is crucial.

In summary, while papering over existing wallpaper may seem like a shortcut, stripping the old wallpaper and starting with a clean surface is generally the best approach for achieving a professional finish and long-term durability. Take the time to properly prepare the surface and choose the right adhesives for the best results.
4th Mar 2024
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Jj painters
0 Reviews
Should always strip a wall before wallpapering because it won’t bubble
11th Mar 2024
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Stripping the old wallpaper and applying lining paper directly onto the hardboard would likely provide the best long-term results, as it creates a smoother surface for the new wallpaper and prevents any potential issues with the old wallpaper causing adhesion problems. However, if you're considering applying new wallpaper directly over the existing wallpaper, here are some considerations:

1. **Tidying Up the Old Wallpaper:** If the old wallpaper is in relatively good condition apart from a few lifting patches, you may be able to repair those areas and apply new wallpaper directly over it. However, if the old wallpaper is significantly damaged, dirty, or peeling in many places, stripping it off would be the better option.

2. **Lining Paper Adhesion:** Lining paper can adhere directly to hardboard, but it's essential to use a suitable adhesive. A heavy-duty wallpaper adhesive designed for use on hard surfaces would be best.

3. **Painting Lining Paper:** You can paint lining paper directly if you prefer a painted finish instead of wallpaper. Ensure the lining paper is properly sealed and smooth before painting. You may need to apply multiple coats of paint for a uniform finish.

4. **Layering Lining Paper and Wallpaper:** If you choose to apply lining paper directly to the hardboard, you can then add another layer of wallpaper on top if desired. Ensure each layer is properly adhered and smooth before applying the next.

5. **Adhesive for Wallpaper on Lining Paper:** For applying wallpaper on top of lining paper, use a high-quality wallpaper adhesive suitable for the specific type of wallpaper you're using. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and application.

In summary, while applying new wallpaper directly over the existing wallpaper may be a quicker solution, stripping the old wallpaper and applying lining paper directly onto the hardboard would likely provide a better finish and longer-lasting results. Make sure to use appropriate adhesives and techniques for each step of the process.
14th Mar 2024
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Always strip the existing paper back to bare wall .
Prepare with filler or if the wall is bad a plasterer would be needed to reskim
6th Mar 2024
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Robs Papering & Painting
2 Reviews, 100% Positive
Ideally the old wallpaper will have to be removed,but if stuck to hardboard is likely to leave lots of craters when paper is removed.The hardboard should be primed first of all and a thick lining paper applied to the walls before painting it to the required colour.
If you want the walls to have a decorated design using wall paper,then choose a thick grained wall paper that will mask any imperfections in the walls.
If the original wallpaper is a flat design,and only some of the edges require repairing use strong border adhesive,then it may be possible to wallpaper over the old paper.
Don not do this however if old wallpaper looks instable,is not flat on the face side,or original papering is overlapped or poorly damaged in patches.
4th Apr 2024
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Strip it before adding new wallpaper
8th Apr 2024
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