Renovating brings a big decision: wallpaper or paint? Each option offers different benefits, and a different price. In this article we compare them on 6 points, with real 2026 market numbers.
Quick comparison: the deciding table
| Factor | Wallpaper | Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Installation cost per m² | 120-$100 | 50-$34 |
| Durability (years) | 10-15 years | 5-8 years |
| Installation time (one wall) | 2-3 hours | 4-6 hours (2 coats) |
| Texture and design | Endless options | Solid color only |
| Changing it | Relatively easy | Requires repainting |
| Cleaning | Easy (with lamination) | Moderate |
When does wallpaper win?
- When you want a design statement: a large pattern or a unique texture, without the effort of a decorative painter.
- Uneven walls: wallpaper hides imperfections much better than paint.
- Kids’ rooms: kids’ room wallpaper is far more appealing than a painted wall.
- Accent walls without a big renovation: you can transform one wall in 3 hours.
When does paint win?
- Utility rooms, bathrooms and kitchens with lots of water: unless the wallpaper has a special lamination.
- Solid colors: if all you want is a clean backdrop for statement furniture.
- Very large walls: on walls of 30 m² and up, the difference shrinks and the cost grows.
The real cost math
Let’s take a 3×3 meter wall (9 m²):
- Quality paint: ~$199 paint + $232 labor = ~$430. It needs redoing every 5-7 years → ~$992 over 15 years.
- Printed wallpaper: ~1,500-$793 including installation. It lasts 10-15 years → the same cost, but a wall with character.
The bottom line: in the long run it’s the same price, but wallpaper looks so much better.
Frequently asked questions
Is wallpaper very durable?
StickDecor wallpapers are printed on quality paper and come with a 5-year warranty. With lamination, they also resist scrubbing and moisture.
How do I remove wallpaper if I get tired of it?
Wallpaper is easier to remove than paint. On a wall with old, peeling paint, take care.
Browse our wallpaper collection »
