It’s evident that your wall has seen better days, but you aren’t alone. At one point (or more) in our lives, we’ve all been stuck with a wall that doesn’t seem to fit right with the rest of the room. In some cases, the damage is minimal, while others are bigger, and we may not have the resources to fix them.
However, this doesn’t mean that you have to put up with a bad wall. There are a variety of cost-effective solutions to conceal bad walls without breaking the bank. Let’s have a look at some cheap wall covering ideas for bad walls.
1. Cover Bad Walls With Wallpaper
Using wallpaper is a common choice for wall coverings. It is a quick fix for hiding a bad wall, replacing old wallpaper, matching your home décor, or giving your house an aesthetic appeal.
We like that wallpapers provide various designs and pricing to suit a wide range of home decors and budgets. Some even have a natural appearance and feel. Most (like the one we’ve chosen for you) are also removable and washable, making them ideal for concealing wall flaws in any part of your home.
Gray Peel and Stick Wood Wallpaper
The natural wood grain texture of Livebor’s Faux Wood Wallpaper is one of our favorites. Since the wallpaper is moisture-resistant, you can use it nearly anywhere in the house. It’s also simple to apply and remove, and it lasts a long time. Furthermore, you’ll appreciate how convenient it is to clean with a damp cloth.
On top of that, this wallpaper is relatively easy to install. All you have to do is peel and stick it to the desired surface. Also, the grid lines on the back guarantee that cutting is an easy task.
2. Hang Wall Tapestry Over Bad Walls
A wall tapestry is also a cost-effective DIY option for repairing damaged walls. It’s an excellent décor element that brings color and texture to your home without taking up too much space.
When it comes to hanging tapestries, they are pretty convenient. You can use nails, pushpins, self-adhesive velcro, frames, and other materials for this purpose. Getting a tapestry can be a great alternative if you live in a rented flat where you can’t make any modifications. Take a look at our recommendation:
Cootime Mandala Tapestry Wall Hanging
The Cootime Mandala Tapestry is notable for its gorgeous and antique design while being affordable. It is an eye-catcher and a great complement to any room because of the motifs coupled with modern concepts.
Furthermore, the tapestry is made out of a high-quality polyester fabric that is both skin-friendly and durable. It’s also easy to clean since you can simply wash it in a machine.
3. Get Creative With Wooden Wall Planks
Inexpensive, customizable, and stylish are just a few advantages of using wooden wall planks as a low-cost wall covering option for bad walls. Because of their elegant appearance and ease of installation, they are also a superior alternative to painting.
Unlike wallpaper, wooden wall planks give you the choice of covering a small area tastefully or the entire wall for a classic rustic look. Here’s what we’ve chosen for you:
Timberchic DIY Wooden Wall Planks
Timberchic DIY Wooden Wall Planks come in various colors, so you may find one that suits your taste. However, we simply adore its realistic wood appearance, which can quickly transform an unsightly wall into something pleasing to look at.
In addition, these wall planks have a sleek finish and an easy peel-and-apply installation. As a result, you can have a rustic, eye-catching look for your house in no time. The wood planks are also easy to clean and maintain, allowing you to install them nearly anywhere without worry.
4. Conceal Bad Walls With Wall Collage
Imagine waking up every morning to the key events in your life? Or simply a collection of lovely photographs adorning a wall you used to despise.
A wall collage is affordable, simple, and allows you to make the best of what you want at any time. You can create a collage with your favorite images or buy one like the one below, which has a fantastic mix of beautiful shots:
CY2SIDE 50PCS Beige Aesthetic Picture for Wall Collage
The CY2SIDE Pictures pack includes 50 gorgeous landscapes, animals, and other subjects, making it a trendy décor piece.
We like how the wall collage allows you to play with your home décor to meet your own needs. For example, you can use them as large wall photos by gluing them together without gaps or putting them on a banner horizontally or vertically. You may also choose from a variety of colors to complement the decor of the space.
5. Cover Bad Walls With Love
A beloved painting or landscape, a photo or poster, or even a certificate that you are proud of are all examples of sentimental solutions to flaws. Display your favorite memories or moments on top of the cracked or chipped paint, and you’ll never have to worry about it again.
A photo frame is the most effective and attractive way to accomplish this. A quality photo frame will not only help to conceal the damage but will also improve the look of your home. Take a look at the picture frame we’ve chosen for you:
Upsimples 5×7 Picture Frames with High Definition Glass
The Upsimples Picture Frame has a rustic design with little burrs, giving it a simple yet charming appearance. These frames come in five sizes to ensure that no unique photo is missed. The frame is light yet strong enough to withstand the test of time. Moreover, the polished glass that comes with the frame will protect your family photographs from scratches, moisture, and dust.
You can quickly put or replace photographs by opening the back of the picture frame. You’ll also like that they come with the required hanging tools for easy installation and can be hung in either portrait or landscape orientation.
6. A Bulletin Board
You can use a bullet board to display photos, scribble thoughts, hang reminder notes, and serve as a décor piece without causing harm to an already damaged wall. With a bulletin board, you can cover the dingy wall and much more without spending a fortune. And, as usual, we’ve chosen an excellent item for you:
10 Pack Self-Adhesive Cork Board Tiles Mini Wall Bulletin Board
The 10-pack Cork Board allows you to decorate your wall in whatever form you choose. As a result, you can modify it to cover the damaged area on your wall. Furthermore, you can use it to display photos or messages. In addition, its stunning aesthetic makes it a great addition to your home, kitchen, hallway, and more.
The box contains 50 push pins, allowing you to display photographs, artwork, messages, and other items without further harming the wall. Thanks to the adhesive on the back, they’re relatively simple to hang.
7. Decorate With Wall Mirrors
Finally, we’ll leave you with a technique that will not only hide the flaw in your wall but will also allow you to utilize it every day – a mirror. Mirrors are available in various forms and sizes, so you can choose one that perfectly hides the flaw in the wall.
If the damage isn’t too severe, you can use a decorative mirror, such as the one shown below to conceal the problem while also adding a decorative touch to your house.
Gold Mirrors for Wall Pack of 3 – BONNYCO
This BONNYCO gold mirror is an excellent option if you want a stylish yet affordable cover for less noticeable wall damage. It comes in a set of three, so you can use each one to cover more minor flaws or use them all together to create a gorgeous colossal cover.
The mirrors have a brilliant golden border that effortlessly fits into contemporary color schemes and décor. Moreover, each set comes with a small eyehole for convenient hanging and a protective plastic frame.
Cheap Wall Covering Ideas for Bad Walls: Other Things to Consider
Assessing the Wall Condition
Identifying Bad Walls
To identify bad walls in your home, it’s important to pay attention to the following signs:
- Cracks: Look for both small and large cracks, especially near doors and windows.
- Peeling paint: This is often a result of water damage or poor adhesion due to previous coats.
- Uneven surfaces: Look for bulging or dipping on the surface of the wall.
- Water stains: These are indicative of potential leaks and can lead to further damage.
- Mold and mildew: Both are signs of excess moisture and should be addressed immediately.
Determining the Needed Repairs
Once you have identified the problem areas on your wall, you can determine the type of repair needed:
- Minor cracks: Use a putty knife and pre-mixed joint compound to fill in the gaps. Sand the area smooth once it’s dry.
Repair Tools Method Cracks Putty knife Fill with joint compound, sand smooth when dry Joint compound Sandpaper - Peeling paint: Scrape off the loose paint and prime the wall with a high-quality primer before repainting.
Repair Tools Method Paint Scraper Remove loose paint, prime, and repaint Primer Paintbrush or paint roller - Uneven surfaces: This may require more extensive repairs like re-plastering or installing a new drywall.
Repair Tools Method Uneven surface Plaster Re-plaster or install new drywall Trowel Drywall (if necessary) - Water stains: Address the source of the leak before attempting to repair the stain. After that, use stain-blocking primer and repaint the area.
Repair Tools Method Water stains Stain-blocking primer Fix the leak, prime, and repaint Paintbrush or paint roller - Mold and mildew: Clean the affected area with a mold-mildew cleaner before repainting. You may also need to use a mold-resistant primer and paint.
Repair Tools Method Mold/Mildew Mold-mildew cleaner Clean the area, use mold-resistant primer and paint Mold-resistant primer Mold-resistant paint
By assessing wall condition thoroughly, you will ensure a successful and long-lasting wall covering solution for your bad walls.
Peel and Stick Options
Peel and stick options are an excellent choice for covering bad walls, as they offer a variety of styles and can be easily removed or adjusted. In this section, we will discuss three popular peel and stick alternatives: Peel and Stick Wallpaper, Vinyl Wall Decals, and Peel-and-Stick Tiles.
Peel and Stick Wallpaper
Peel and stick wallpaper is a cost-effective and straightforward solution to cover unsightly walls. It is easy to apply and can be removed or repositioned without causing damage to your walls. Some benefits of using peel and stick wallpaper include:
- Variety of designs: You’ll find a wide range of patterns, colors, and textures to choose from, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your space.
- Easy application: Simply peel off the backing and smooth the wallpaper onto your wall.
- Removable: If you decide to change your décor or need to fix a mistake during installation, the wallpaper can be easily removed without damaging your walls.
Vinyl Wall Decals
Vinyl wall decals are another quick and affordable way to cover bad walls. They are a versatile option that can be used to add color, pattern, or a unique focal point to your space. Here are some advantages to using vinyl decals:
- Customizable: You can find wall decals in countless shapes, sizes, and designs. You can even create custom designs to suit your specific taste.
- Easy to apply and remove: Simply peel and stick the decals to your wall, and remove them without causing damage when it’s time for a change.
- Budget-friendly: Wall decals are typically less expensive than traditional wallpaper and can be used to cover small or large areas of your wall.
Peel-and-Stick Tiles
Peel-and-stick tiles are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a more durable wall covering option. They can be used to create a sophisticated backsplash or add texture to your walls. Some benefits of peel-and-stick tiles include:
- Durable material: Tiles are typically made from durable materials like vinyl, ensuring that they will last for years.
- Versatile designs: You can find tiles in various colors, patterns, and textures, allowing you to create a unique look in your space.
- Easy installation: Peel and stick tiles are simple to apply, as you only need to remove the backing and press them onto your wall.
Consider the peel and stick options mentioned above to effortlessly and affordably transform your walls. Each option offers a unique way to cover bad walls while adding style to your space.
Textile Solutions
Tapestry Walls
Tapestries are a versatile and affordable option to cover up bad walls. You can find a variety of colors, patterns, and sizes to match your room’s aesthetic. To create a tapestry wall, simply choose a piece that complements your decor and attach it to the wall using tacks, nails, or removable adhesive strips. This approach can also provide warmth and visual interest to your living space, as well as making it easy to change the look of your room as often as you like.
Curtain Coverings
Another method for hiding unsightly walls is to use curtains. Not only can they be inexpensive and accessible, but they also allow for a flexible and customizable solution. To cover a wall with curtains, you’ll need:
- Curtain panels (measure your wall to determine the size and quantity needed)
- Curtain rods or wire (choose based on your wall dimensions and desired appearance)
After choosing and installing the appropriate hardware, simply hang your curtains to create a dynamic and appealing visual barrier. Don’t be afraid to play with patterns and textures to add depth and interest to your space.
Starched Fabric Walls
If you’re looking for a more permanent fix for your bad walls, consider starched fabric wall covering. Here’s a step-by-step process to achieve a flawless fabric wall:
- Choose a fabric that matches your room’s style and prepare it by cutting to size, allowing for overlap around the edges and seams.
- Clean and prepare your wall surface for better adhesion.
- Apply liquid starch to the wall using a paint roller or brush.
- Position your fabric on the wall, starting from the top and smoothing it down as you go.
- Use a wallpaper smoothing tool to press the fabric to the wall, removing any bubbles or wrinkles.
- Trim excess fabric from the edges and seams as needed.
Starched fabric walls are a practical and affordable way to cover and protect your walls while adding a touch of personal style. With a little creativity and effort, you can transform your space and make those bad walls a distant memory.
Wall Decorations
Hanging Artwork
One way to cover bad walls is by hanging artwork. This not only disguises imperfections but also adds character to your space. You can opt for large prints or a series of smaller ones to create a visually appealing arrangement. Choose art pieces that suit your taste and complement the existing decor of the room.
Creating a Picture Collage
Another great option to cover unsightly walls is creating a picture collage. Gather your favorite photos, postcards, or even magazine clippings, and arrange them in a visually balanced composition. You can either use individual frames or invest in a multi-photo frame to display your collection. This will not only hide the wall’s flaws but also add a personal touch to your space.
Using Mirrors
Mirrors can also work wonders for covering bad walls. They not only help conceal imperfections but also make your room appear larger by reflecting light. You can choose from various shapes and sizes to create a unique statement on your wall. Here are some ideas:
- Hang a large mirror as the centerpiece
- Create a mirror collage with different shapes and sizes
- Use a mirror as a functional piece by adding a shelf or hooks for hanging accessories
Shelves
Incorporating shelves into your wall decor not only covers up the wall but also provides additional storage, displaying space for your belongings. You can choose from floating shelves, bookshelves, or wall-mounted brackets that showcase decorative items, plants, or books. This functional decor element will help keep your room organized while covering those unsightly walls.
Unique DIY Options
In this section, we will explore some creative and budget-friendly wall covering ideas for those less-than-perfect walls. These suggestions will help you transform your space without breaking the bank.
Fake Flower Walls
A fake flower wall can add texture, color, and a touch of nature to your space. To create this look, you will need an assortment of fake flowers and a glue gun or adhesive to secure them to the wall. Arrange the flowers in a pattern or design that suits your taste and be prepared for compliments from visitors.
Hat Wall Display
If you have a collection of hats, why not turn them into an eye-catching wall display? Simply install hooks or pegs on your wall and arrange your hats to create a unique pattern or design. Not only will this idea cover any wall imperfections, but it also serves as a handy storage solution for your headwear.
Crate Wall Storage
Repurpose old wooden crates to create an attractive and practical wall storage solution. Begin by painting the crates in your desired color and then secure them to the wall, either individually or in a group. This creative idea not only covers bad walls, but it also provides extra storage space and adds a touch of rustic charm.
Barn Board Accent Walls
For a more rustic look, consider using reclaimed wood to create a barn board accent wall. This material can be found at a local salvage yard or purchased online. To install, simply secure the boards to your wall with adhesive or nails, creating a unique textured pattern. This wall covering option is both eco-friendly and visually appealing.
Beadboard Covering
Beadboard is an affordable and versatile option for covering bad walls. Available in various patterns and textures, this material can be easily installed with adhesive or nails. Once in place, you can paint the beadboard to match your décor, giving your space a fresh and polished look.
Wall Repair and Improvement
Applying Drywall Mud
If you have bad walls with cracks or holes, applying drywall mud is an easy and affordable way to repair them. To do this, you’ll need a bucket of ready-made drywall mud and a 6-inch (15-cm) putty knife. Apply the mud evenly over the wall’s surface, filling any gaps or cracks. Once it’s dry, you can sand it down for a smooth finish or create interesting textures by using various tools like a sponge or a trowel.
Creating a Faux Brick Wall
Another way to improve the appearance of your bad walls is by creating a faux brick wall. This can be achieved by applying textured wallpaper designed to mimic the look of bricks. Alternatively, you can use a combination of paint and stencils to create the illusion of a brick wall. This DIY project can transform your room into a stylish space without the need for expensive materials or professional assistance.
Installing a Whiteboard
If you’re looking for a functional and affordable solution to cover bad walls, consider installing a whiteboard. Not only will it hide any imperfections, but it also adds a practical element to your room. Here’s how to install it:
- Measure your wall and determine the size of the whiteboard you want.
- Purchase a whiteboard from an office supply store or online retailer.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting the whiteboard, ensuring it’s level and secure.
- Attach any accessories, such as markers and an eraser, to the whiteboard.
With these wall repair and improvement ideas, you can tackle bad walls, giving them a fresh and appealing look while staying within a budget. Utilize these methods to create a space that’s both visually pleasing and functional for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How Do I Pick Wood Wall Planks That Best Suit My Home?
Before making a purchase, be sure the wood wall plank you’re considering is a suitable fit for your house. Despite the wide range of colors and designs, the decision-making process should be simple.
We recommend ordering a sample swatch first to make sure it fits your style and preferences. You can also examine other vital details such as thickness and texture using a sample. Additionally, if the damage is less prominent, a sample pack will suffice as protection.
2. What Should I Look Out For When Selecting Wallpaper?
The purpose of the wallpaper is an essential factor to consider before selecting it. For example, consider using a moisture-resistant wall covering to hide a dingy bathroom wall. Similarly, a steam and fire-resistant one would be ideal for the kitchen. If you want wallpaper for open spaces such as the living room and corridors, we recommend going for a trendy design.
Conclusion
We all have a spot in our homes that we don’t care for or wish looked better. But, when it’s out in the open, like on your living room wall, it’s much worse.
While a damaged wall is a recipe for concern, you can fix certain problems with simple and inexpensive methods. Whether you live in your own home or a rented place, these cheap wall-covering ideas for bad walls can brighten up your space in no time.
Nice ideas! I mostly like the idea to decorate it with art, mirrors or corkboard tiles. I also once hanged my pretty bike on a bad wall, it looked nice as well
Hanging the bike on a bad wall is such a great idea!
I needed to see this because I recently noticed that my wall wasn’t looking to well. I like the idea of using wallpaper.
I’m glad you found the article helpful!
I had no idea that changing and/or fixing a wall was this simple and inexpensive! I’ve been thinking about changing up my living room walls, and I love the idea of a mirror in the entryway. That would definitely brighten it up!
Yes, it definitely doesn’t cost a lot to give a room a makeover.