Wallpaper vs. Paint: Which Is Better for Long-Term Design?
If you’re planning a home refresh, chances are you’ve asked yourself this question:
Should I use wallpaper or paint?
Paint has long been the default choice. It’s familiar, easy to access, and often seen as the “safe” option. Wallpaper, on the other hand, is sometimes viewed as bold, intimidating, or high-commitment.
But when it comes to long-term design, durability, and overall impact, the answer isn’t as simple as it used to be.
At Northwest Wall Designs, we’ve seen firsthand how each performs over time. Below is a clear breakdown to help you decide what truly makes sense for your space.
Why Paint Is Often the First Choice
Paint is popular for a reason. It’s accessible, flexible, and familiar.
The Advantages of Paint
Lower upfront cost
Easy to change or refresh
Widely available in endless colors
Familiar DIY option for homeowners
For short-term updates or quick refreshes, paint can absolutely serve a purpose.
But when homeowners are thinking beyond “right now” — paint starts to show its limitations.
Where Paint Falls Short Over Time
Painted walls tend to age faster than most people expect.
Over the years, we commonly see:
scuffs and marks that don’t clean well
uneven fading, especially in high-light areas
frequent repainting to maintain a “fresh” look
limited depth or texture compared to wallpaper
In many homes, paint becomes something that needs to be maintained rather than enjoyed.
Why Wallpaper Excels in Long-Term Design
Wallpaper today is not what it was decades ago. Modern materials, inks, and installation techniques have completely changed how wallpaper performs.
The Advantages of Wallpaper
Greater durability and longevity
Rich texture and visual depth
Consistent appearance over time
Resistance to everyday wear when properly installed
Elevated, custom feel that paint can’t replicate
When installed professionally, wallpaper is designed to last years, not months.
Durability: Wallpaper vs. Paint
This is where the difference becomes most obvious.
Painted walls often require touch-ups, repainting, or full refreshes every few years — especially in:
entryways
hallways
dining areas
bathrooms
powder rooms
Wallpaper, when properly installed, holds up significantly better in these same spaces. Seams stay clean, patterns remain consistent, and the surface maintains its integrity far longer than paint.
Design Impact: One Wall vs. the Entire Room
Paint relies on color alone to make a statement.
Wallpaper offers:
pattern
scale
texture
movement
personality
This is why a single wallpaper wall can completely change the feel of a room — something paint often struggles to achieve without overwhelming the space.
It’s also why wallpaper works so well for:
accent walls
powder rooms
dining rooms
offices
entryways
You don’t need to paper every wall to see the benefit.
Maintenance and Longevity
One of the biggest misconceptions about wallpaper is that it’s hard to maintain.
In reality:
High-quality wallpaper is easy to care for
It resists everyday wear better than paint
It doesn’t require frequent refreshing
When removed properly, it can be cleaner than multiple layers of paint
Paint feels low-maintenance upfront — but over time, wallpaper often proves to be the lower-effort option.
Cost Over Time: The Bigger Picture
Paint typically costs less at the start.
Wallpaper often costs less over the life of the space.
When you factor in:
repeated repainting
labor costs
downtime
inconsistency in finish
Wallpaper becomes a long-term investment rather than a recurring expense.
So… Which Is Better for Long-Term Design?
If you’re looking for:
a quick, temporary refresh → paint can work
durability, depth, and long-term impact → wallpaper is the better choice
Wallpaper isn’t about trends or decoration alone — it’s about creating a space that feels intentional, finished, and built to last.
Professional Insight: Why Installation Matters
Wallpaper performs best when installed correctly.
Professional installation ensures:
clean seams
proper wall preparation
correct adhesive use
longevity
a flawless final result
The difference between wallpaper that lasts and wallpaper that fails almost always comes down to installation.
Ready to Explore Wallpaper for Your Home?
Whether you’re considering a single accent wall or a full-room transformation, our team brings experience, precision, and design-focused craftsmanship to every project.
📍 Serving Spokane & the Inland Northwest
If you’re curious about what wallpaper could do for your space — we’re always happy to help you explore the possibilities.