If you’re planning a home makeover, you might be wondering how long does wallpaper last. Homeowners often ask how wallpaper compares to paint when it comes to lifespan, maintenance, and appearance. The answer depends on the material, the room, and your personal goals.
At BVL Painting & Carpentry, we help clients choose finishes that fit their lifestyle. Whether you’re renovating one room or the whole house, we can help you decide if wallpaper is the right long-term choice.
What Impacts How Long Wallpaper Lasts
Average Wallpaper Lifespan
Most high-quality wallpaper can last between 10 to 15 years—often much longer with proper care. That’s significantly more durable than many paint jobs, which may need freshening up every few years. If your wallpaper is applied correctly and kept in a low-humidity room, it can maintain its look for well over a decade.
Material and Placement Matter
Some wallpapers are made with vinyl, which resists moisture, scuffs, and stains. This makes them ideal for rooms like hallways or children’s bedrooms. Traditional paper wallpaper, on the other hand, is more delicate and best used in areas with less traffic.
For example, wallpaper in a dining room or office typically lasts longer than in a steamy bathroom. The room’s purpose and conditions will affect how your wallpaper holds up over time.
Maintenance Makes a Difference
Wallpaper needs minimal maintenance, but it benefits from occasional dusting and gentle cleaning. Avoid scrubbing or exposing it to direct sunlight for long periods, as that can cause fading. In general, homeowners find that wallpaper’s durability is reliable, especially compared to repainting every few years.
Wallpaper vs Paint: Durability Pros and Cons
When comparing wallpaper vs paint pros and cons, it’s helpful to consider longevity and maintenance:
- Wallpaper Pros: Long-lasting, hides wall flaws, easy to clean (vinyl), decorative
- Wallpaper Cons: Can peel in humidity, hard to remove or change, needs expert installation
- Paint Pros: Quick to apply, inexpensive, easy to change or retouch
- Paint Cons: Requires frequent touch-ups, chips easily, doesn’t hide imperfections well
Wallpaper generally outlasts paint in areas like hallways and bedrooms. However, paint is often the better choice in high-humidity or high-traffic areas due to its ease of maintenance.
Cost Over Time: Is Wallpaper Worth It?
While wallpaper costs more upfront, it may actually save you money long term. Because you won’t need to replace or refresh it as often as paint, it’s a smart option for spaces where you want a lasting design.
Many homeowners who love bold or custom patterns lean toward wallpaper for its richness and texture. If you’re the type who enjoys switching styles every few years, paint is more flexible. But if you’re after a statement feature that endures, wallpaper offers impressive longevity.
FAQs – How Long Does Wallpaper Last
What’s the typical lifespan of wallpaper in a home?
Quality wallpaper lasts around 10 to 15 years, especially when applied in dry, low-traffic spaces and maintained properly.
Is wallpaper more cost-effective than paint in the long run?
It can be. While wallpaper costs more upfront, its longer lifespan may reduce the need for frequent updates, saving money over time.
Can I use wallpaper in a bathroom?
You can, but it must be vinyl or moisture-resistant. Otherwise, humidity can cause peeling or bubbling over time.
Ready to Upgrade Your Walls?
If you’re choosing between paint or wallpaper, BVL Painting & Carpentry can help you make the right call. We offer expert advice and professional application to make sure your wall finish lasts for years to come.
Contact us today to discuss your next project—we’re here to bring your vision to life with lasting quality.