Wallpaper vs. Paint: Which Is Right for Your Sussex Home?

When it comes to transforming your walls, the age-old debate between wallpaper and paint is still alive and well. Both options have their strengths — and their ideal applications. Whether you're redecorating a cosy Victorian terrace in Hove, giving your Lancing family home a fresh look, or modernising a seaside flat in Worthing, your choice of wall treatment can make all the difference.

In this guide, we break down every aspect of wallpaper vs. paint — from cost, durability, and maintenance to design versatility and local trends — to help you make the best decision for your home.

1. Longevity and Durability: How Long Do They Really Last?

Wallpaper: Long-Lasting and Resilient

Premium wallpaper, especially vinyl or fabric-backed types, can last 12–15 years with little to no fading or peeling — particularly when professionally installed. It resists scuffing, hides minor wall imperfections, and stands up well in high-traffic living areas or rental properties.

Ideal for:

• Living rooms

• Feature walls

• Hallways and entrances

Paint: Flexible but Requires Maintenance

Even top-quality emulsion paint tends to fade over time and can chip, scuff, or require periodic touch-ups — especially in family homes or rental properties. Most painted walls need refreshing every 4–7 years.

Ideal for:

• Bedrooms

• Kitchens and bathrooms (with mould-resistant paint)

• Quick home refreshes on a budget

2. Cost Breakdown: What’s More Budget-Friendly in Sussex?

Wallpaper: Higher Upfront Cost, Lower Long-Term Spend

Installing wallpaper typically costs more at the start — materials and labour are more specialised — but over a decade, you may find it’s more cost-effective. A wallpapered room might cost £800–£1,500 but need no updates for over a decade.

Paint: Lower Upfront Cost, Higher Lifetime Spend

Paint is far more affordable initially (often under £250 for a standard room including labour) but requires more frequent reapplication. Over 15 years, this can result in a higher cumulative spend, especially if you’re hiring decorators for each repaint.

3. Aesthetic Impact: Statement Walls vs. Subtle Backdrops

Wallpaper: Rich, Detailed, and Dramatic

From textured damask patterns to bold jungle motifs, wallpaper brings tactile and visual drama. In 2025, Sussex homeowners are embracing:

• Botanical and floral prints

• Geometric or Art Deco styles

• Brick, concrete, or linen-effect textures

• Murals and oversized patterns

Paint: Minimalist, Clean, and Adaptable

Paint offers sleek uniformity and endless colour options. It’s also easier to update when trends change or rooms evolve.

4. Installation and Labour: DIY or Leave It to the Pros?

Wallpaper: Precision Requires Expertise

Installing wallpaper demands surface preparation, careful pattern alignment, and paste or adhesive techniques — not ideal for first-time DIYers. Professional installation is often essential for the best results.

Paint: DIY-Friendly, But Professionals Add Polish

While many homeowners feel comfortable painting themselves, professionals like R Drummond & Son ensure smooth, even coats and proper edgework that avoids common DIY mistakes.

5. Maintenance and Cleaning: Which Is Easier?

Wallpaper: Requires Gentle Care

Wipeable or scrubbable wallpaper exists, but in general, wallpaper should be cleaned gently with specialist products to avoid peeling or staining. Avoid abrasive cloths or common household sprays.

Paint: Quick to Clean and Touch Up

Painted walls are easy to clean with soapy water, multi-surface sprays, or disinfectant wipes. Marks or damage can be touched up in minutes without professional help.

6. Removal and Redecoration: Thinking Ahead

Wallpaper: Strippable Options Simplify the Job

Modern wallpapers are often strippable, making them easy to remove when it’s time for a change. Still, removal can be messy or difficult depending on the adhesive used and the wall beneath.

Paint: Easy to Recoat or Recolour

Paint allows for simple redecorating. With the right prep and primer, most painted walls can be redone in a day — ideal for rental properties or frequent style changes.

7. Environmental Considerations

Wallpaper: Eco-Conscious Options Growing

While vinyl wallpaper isn’t biodegradable, many eco-friendly wallpaper brands now offer sustainably sourced, non-toxic papers with water-based inks. At R Drummond & Son, we can recommend environmentally conscious UK suppliers.

Paint: VOC Awareness Is Key

Modern paints come in low-VOC (volatile organic compound) options, which are better for indoor air quality. We always use trusted UK brands that comply with strict safety and emissions standards.

8. Combining Wallpaper and Paint for the Best of Both

Many Sussex clients are now mixing both: using wallpaper as a feature wall and complementary paint tones on the remaining walls. This offers balance, visual interest, and practical value.

Popular combos include:

• Muted wallpaper + off-white paint in Scandi-style homes

• Bold mural wallpaper + deep navy paint in modern flats

• Textured wallpaper + soft sage paint for cottage interiors

9. Local Decorating Trends Across Sussex

Different parts of Sussex lean into distinct design preferences:

• Worthing & Lancing: Classic interiors with coastal touches — think nautical stripes, chalky paints, and linen wallpaper.

• Hove & Brighton: More eclectic and maximalist, favouring bold wallpapers, rich paints, and geometric or vintage influences.

• Horsham & Mid Sussex: Country-house chic: painted panelling, botanical wallpapers, and heritage tones.

We work with homeowners across the region to tailor styles that suit local architecture and individual taste.

10. Which Option Is Best for You?

Here’s a quick comparison chart:

Factor	Wallpaper	Paint
Longevity	12–15 years	4–7 years
Best For	Feature walls, high-impact spaces	Full-room coverage, frequent updates
Style Options	Highly decorative, dramatic	Clean, customisable, flexible
Maintenance	Gentle, specific cleaning required	Easy to clean, touch-up friendly
Installation	Best handled by professionals	DIY-friendly with pro polish
Eco Options	Available from trusted UK brands	Low-VOC paints widely available

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use wallpaper in a bathroom or kitchen?

A: Yes — just ensure you use moisture-resistant wallpaper like vinyl. We recommend avoiding seams in splash-prone areas.

Q: Is wallpaper child- or pet-friendly?

A: Yes, many modern wallpapers are scrubbable and designed to withstand family life. We’ll help you choose durable options.

Q: Will wallpaper cover cracks or rough walls?

A: To an extent, yes. Textured wallpaper can disguise small imperfections. Our decorators will prepare your surface professionally beforehand.

Q: How long does it take to wallpaper vs. paint?

A: Wallpapering a room may take 1–2 days depending on complexity. Painting often takes the same time but may need extra coats and drying between layers.

Need Expert Advice? Get in Touch With R Drummond & Son

Deciding between wallpaper and paint isn’t always simple. Your lifestyle, design preferences, and long-term plans all play a role. At R Drummond & Son, we’ve helped homeowners across Sussex choose and install the perfect wall finishes for over 35 years.

Whether you’re looking for a high-end wallpaper installation or a fresh coat of paint with expert attention to detail, we’re here to help.

👉 Contact us today for a free consultation or quote.