Can I put plaster over wallpaper?

Question

I want to put a joint compound over wallpaper to make a faux finish. I have heard though that the moisture from the compound will cause the wallpaper to bubble and crack. I know the best thing is to remove the wallpaper first but to get by can I put the finish over wallpaper? Or is this a big no-no?

Answer 1

i hung wallpaper for a living for 25 years. never try to put joint compound on top of it.it will come loose, bubble andcrack before it is dry..but it will be easier (but messier) to take off the paper.

Answer 2

I wouldn't. Not only the moisture, but the weight. If the paper is not  removed, it may just fall off the wall  after you have done all that work.

Why take a chance? Do it right the first time and be done with it!

Answer 3

Pixie gave the straight information.

There is nothing for the plaster to grab onto that is solid when you plaster over wallpaper.  It may hold for a time, but eventually it will pull the layers of wallpaper apart and then pull away from the wall.   Additionally, the wet undried plaster will emulsify the paper which will destroy the paper's structure and the glue that holds it to the wall.

You should scrape or use liquid wallpaper remover to get all of the wallpaper off the wall, including any glue residue, and then I do not know what your wall is made of, but if it is plaster or concrete, rough up the surface with a steel brush and apply the plaster over that.  You might even need to apply a special metal mesh to the wall if it is a concrete wall.

It would be best to talk to a person who deals with applying plaster to walls though.  Maybe a Home Depot person might know the answer to that?  Or they may have booklets on re-plastering walls.

Answer 4

paint over the paper with an oil based primer,  such as Kilz,  or Zinser,  This will seal the wallpaper and prevent moisture from paint to get into paper.  Then finish as you were.  

I have textured and painted over wallpapered walls.  As long as the paper is in good shape and adhesion to the wall is good.  

Never had a problem.   Saves so much time and headaches.  Speaking of headaches,  wear a respirator when applying the oil primer.  You can get a decent one for 20 to 30 bucks at home depot or lowes when you buy the primer