Textured Wallpaper vs. Paint: Which One Wins in 2025?

When it comes to transforming a room, walls do more than divide space — they set the tone. And if you’re caught between choosing textured wallpaper or paint, you're not alone. Both options offer beauty, but their benefits (and pitfalls) couldn’t be more different.

Let’s cut through the confusion and help you make the right call — whether you’re renovating a feature wall in a condo, updating a restaurant interior, or staging a home to sell.

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What Is Textured Wallpaper (And Why Is It So Popular Now)?

Textured wallpaper isn’t the 1970s floral your grandma used to hang. Today’s options are modern, elegant, and surprisingly versatile — offering everything from linen and sisal to faux stone, cork, and even metallic finishes.

With interior designers leaning hard into layering and depth, textured wallpaper is having a serious moment in 2025.

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Pros of Textured Wallpaper:

• Depth and dimension without heavy texture paint tools
• Endless styles, including geometric, fabric-like, and metallic
• Great for feature walls, entryways, or upscale commercial spaces
• Easier to clean than it used to be — vinyl options are now washable

Cons of Textured Wallpaper:

• Can peel or bubble in high-moisture areas like kitchens or bathrooms
• More effort to install (especially matching patterns)
• Trickier to repair — one tear often means replacing an entire strip

Considering wallpaper for your home or business? Let’s talk about your vision.

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What About Paint? Why Some Homeowners Still Prefer It

Paint might seem like the “safe” choice — but that’s not a bad thing. With the right application and finish, paint (even textured ceiling paint or faux finish techniques) can look just as premium as wallpaper, especially in high-traffic spaces.

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Pros of Paint:

• Affordable and accessible — budget-friendly for full-room makeovers
• Easy to touch up or repaint when tastes change
• Moisture-resistant finishes available for kitchens and bathrooms
• Great color matching for trim, ceilings, and built-ins

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Cons of Paint:

• Limited texture options unless using specialty paints
• Hard to hide flaws without proper prep (uneven surfaces show easily)
• Some styles require pros — sponge, suede, or trowel effects can get tricky

Thinking about painting instead? Explore our interior painting services.

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Textured Wallpaper vs. Paint: When to Choose Each One

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Where Each Option Shines (Use Cases by Room)

• Living Rooms & Dining Rooms: Both work well. Wallpaper adds luxury, while paint offers flexibility.
• Bedrooms: Wallpaper for a statement headboard wall; paint for soothing, even tones.
• Kitchens: Paint wins for moisture resistance and cleanability.
• Bathrooms: Paint is the safer bet unless your wallpaper is moisture-rated.
• Offices & Retail: Wallpaper makes a big visual impact, perfect for branding.

See how we help commercial clients choose the right finish. Visit our FAQ.

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Professional Insights: What Our Painters Recommend

At Pro Works Painting, we’ve installed both — and we’ve seen what works long-term.

• For modern homes, we often recommend a painted base with textured wallpaper accents — best of both worlds.
• For resale, keep it neutral. Buyers prefer paint unless the wallpaper is subtle, timeless, and professionally installed.
• For commercial spaces, go bold with wallpaper — it creates lasting impressions.

Ready to upgrade your space with expert-level finishes? Get your quote today.

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Q&A: Wallpaper vs Paint, Answered by Pro Works

Can I install textured wallpaper myself?
You can, but for complex patterns or textures, professional installation will avoid bubbles, misalignments, and early peeling.

How long does textured wallpaper last?
High-quality vinyl wallpaper can last 10–15 years with proper care — especially in dry areas.

Is textured paint cheaper than wallpaper?
Usually yes. Even premium paint costs less than quality wallpaper and install labor.

Can I combine both wallpaper and paint?
Absolutely. Many clients use wallpaper as an accent and paint the rest.

What’s trending more in 2025 — paint or wallpaper?
Textured wallpaper is trending for statement spaces, but paint remains the go-to for clean, cohesive interiors.

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Your Walls, Reimagined — The Pro Works Way

Whether you’re dreaming of textured wallpaper with a luxe finish or prefer the clean versatility of paint, our team delivers flawless results that elevate your space.

We proudly serve homeowners and commercial clients across Western Canada with detailed quotes, expert prep, and premium materials. Let’s bring your walls to life.

📍 Trusted. Professional. Experienced.
👉Book your quote today or call your local Pro Works Painting franchise.