Deciding how to finish your interior walls is one of the most exciting parts of designing your home. The choice often comes down to two classic contenders: wallpaper or paint. Both options can completely transform a space, but they offer different benefits and suit various styles and needs. As expert painters in Brisbane, the team at Signature Painters has helped countless homeowners navigate this decision.
This guide will break down the age-old debate of wallpaper versus paint. We’ll explore the pros and cons of each, consider factors like durability and cost, and look at what’s currently trending in Brisbane homes. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which finish is the perfect match for your space and lifestyle.
The Allure of Wallpaper
Wallpaper offers an incredible range of aesthetic possibilities that paint alone often can’t match. If you’re looking to make a bold statement or add a unique touch to a room, wallpaper is a fantastic choice.
Modern wallpaper comes in a vast array of intricate patterns, rich textures, and stunning designs. From subtle grasscloth that adds warmth and texture to a living room, to a vibrant floral pattern that creates a dramatic feature wall in a bedroom, wallpaper can inject depth and character into any space. It’s a powerful tool for expressing personal style and creating a truly custom look.
A common concern for many homeowners is the removal process. While older wallpapers were notoriously difficult to strip, today’s options are much more user-friendly. Many modern wallpapers are designed to be easily peeled off, making future updates far less of a headache.
The Classic Appeal of Paint
Paint is the timeless, go-to choice for interior walls, and for good reason. Its simplicity, versatility, and ease of application make it a reliable and attractive option for any home.
The sheer variety of paint colours is nearly endless, allowing you to find the perfect shade to match your decor and set the desired mood. Finishes range from flat and matte to semi-gloss and high-gloss, each offering a different look and level of durability. Paint provides a clean, fresh canvas that can make rooms feel larger and brighter.
One of the biggest advantages of paint is how simple it is to update. If you grow tired of a color or want to refresh your space, a new coat of paint is a relatively quick and affordable project. At Signature Painters, our team of professional painters in Brisbane excels at delivering a flawless, long-lasting finish that enhances the beauty of your home.
Durability and Maintenance
When choosing between wallpaper and paint, it’s important to consider how well each will hold up over time.
- Wallpaper: High-quality, modern wallpaper can be surprisingly durable, especially vinyl-based options designed for high-traffic areas like hallways or kids’ rooms. Many are scrubbable and resistant to scuffs. However, wallpaper can be susceptible to peeling in humid environments, which is a key consideration for Brisbane’s climate.
- Paint: The durability of paint depends largely on its finish. High-gloss and semi-gloss paints are very durable and easy to clean, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. Matte or flat finishes are less resistant to stains but are easier to touch up. A quality paint job from experienced painters in Brisbane can last for many years with minimal upkeep.
The team at Signature Painters can provide expert advice on the best choice for your specific needs, considering factors like room usage and environmental conditions.
Cost Considerations
Budget is often a deciding factor for home improvement projects. Here’s how wallpaper and paint generally compare:
- Wallpaper: The upfront cost of wallpaper is typically higher than paint. This includes the price of the rolls themselves, which can vary widely, as well as the cost of professional installation. Hanging wallpaper requires precision and skill, so hiring a professional is often necessary to achieve a seamless result.
- Paint: Painting is generally the more budget-friendly option, both in terms of materials and labour. While hiring professional painters is an investment, the overall cost is usually lower than wallpapering a similar-sized space.
Though paint may be cheaper initially, high-quality wallpaper can last longer, potentially balancing out the long-term cost. Signature Painters offers competitive and transparent pricing for both services, ensuring you receive exceptional value no matter which option you choose.
Conclusion
So, what are Brisbane homeowners choosing? The trend we see is a beautiful blend of both. Many are using paint as the primary finish for most of their home to create a clean, modern, and spacious feel. Then, they introduce wallpaper to create stunning feature walls in living rooms, dining areas, or master bedrooms.
This hybrid approach allows homeowners to enjoy the cost-effectiveness and simplicity of paint while leveraging the unique personality and design impact of wallpaper in key areas. It’s a smart way to add a touch of luxury and personal flair without committing to wallpaper throughout the entire house.
