Using Zinsser Wallpaper Cover Up

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Using Zinsser Wallpaper Cover Up: A Practical Solution for Hall, Stairs and Landing Projects

On a recent decorating project, I completed a hall, stairs, and landing where the property had old, dated wallpaper that the clients understandably did not want the mess and cost of removing. Wallpaper removal can be time-consuming, messy, and in some cases can damage the underlying plaster, particularly in high-traffic areas such as stairwells.

After discussing the options with the clients and carrying out my own research, we agreed on an alternative solution: Zinsser Wallpaper Cover Up. I regularly use Zinsser products and trust them for their quality and reliability, so although this was my first time using this specific product, I was confident it would deliver a good result.

 

Why We Chose Zinsser Wallpaper Cover Up

When decorating over wallpaper, it is important to use the right preparation products. Standard water-based paint is often unsuitable and can cause issues such as lifting seams, bubbling, or uneven finishes.

Zinsser Wallpaper Cover Up is designed specifically for this purpose. It seals the wallpaper, covers patterns and textures, and creates a stable, paint-ready surface. This made it an ideal solution for this interior decorating project, especially in a space that sees daily use.

Application and First Impressions

The product itself was very easy to apply. It is thick and sticky, which helps it do its job properly, but this does mean there are a few things to be aware of.

There is a strong smell, as it is solvent-based, so good ventilation is essential. Windows were kept open throughout, and I would strongly recommend allowing plenty of airflow when using this product.

There was also a fair amount of roller splatter, which is to be expected given the consistency. As with any professional decorating job, floors, stairs, and surrounding areas were fully protected beforehand. This is especially important on hall and stair projects where splashes can easily travel.

The stated drying time is between 2–4 hours, so it is important to allow enough time in your schedule. Rushing this stage would compromise the final finish.

Zinsser Wallpaper Cover-Up

Tools and Clean-Up

Because Zinsser Wallpaper Cover Up is solvent-based, cleaning tools afterwards can take more time than it is worth. For this job, I chose to dispose of the roller and brush after use rather than spend time cleaning them. This is purely personal preference, but something worth factoring into the overall job cost and preparation.

Preparing for Painting

Once fully dry, the surface was given a light sand to remove any minor roller or brush marks. This step is key to achieving a smooth, professional finish. After sanding, the walls were completely ready for painting, with no visible wallpaper pattern showing through.

The end result was a clean, even surface that looked no different to freshly plastered walls once painted.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Zinsser Wallpaper Cover Up performed exactly as hoped. It was effective, easy to use, and delivered a high-quality base for painting. I would confidently use this product again on similar projects and would recommend it as a practical solution where wallpaper removal is not desired.

At Just.Ant.Designs, I always take the time to research products, discuss options with clients, and choose solutions that balance quality, durability, and practicality. Whether it is a full hall, stairs and landing makeover, interior painting, or general decorating work, the focus is always on achieving a long-lasting, professional finish.

If you are considering updating your home but are unsure about the best approach, feel free to get in touch to discuss your options.