Thinking about giving your walls a fresh look with wallpaper? You’re not alone. Wallpaper is making a big comeback in Irish homes—and for good reason. From sleek, modern prints to classic textures, it’s a cost-effective way to add personality to any space.
But how much does professional wallpapering actually cost in Dublin today?
In this 2025 guide, we break down everything you need to know—from typical prices and cost factors to wallpaper types and hiring tips—so you can make a smart, budget-friendly choice for your next home improvement project.
Why More Dubliners Are Choosing Wallpaper Over Paint
In recent years, wallpaper has surged in popularity, not just for its aesthetic appeal but also for its durability and ease of maintenance.
Here’s why wallpaper is gaining traction in Dublin:
- Longer lifespan than paint (typically 10–15 years)
- Easier to clean, especially vinyl types
- Endless design options, from neutral tones to bold patterns
- Adds texture and depth to walls that paint just can’t replicate
Whether you’re updating a single feature wall or giving your entire home a makeover, wallpaper offers a unique advantage.
What Influences Wallpapering Costs in Dublin?
1. Type of Wallpaper
Different materials come with different price tags:
- Vinyl wallpaper – Durable and wipeable (€25–€50 per roll)
- Grasscloth / natural fibre – Adds texture, more expensive (€50–€100+ per roll)
- Foil or metallic – Reflects light beautifully, but trickier to install
- Textured or 3D – May require extra labour
- Designer brands – Can go well over €150 per roll
2. Room Size and Wall Area
Wallpapering is usually priced per square metre. The larger the room, the more wallpaper and time required.
Example: A small box room (10 sqm) might cost €250–€450, while a full living room (25 sqm) could cost €800–€1,200+.
3. Wall Preparation
If your walls have old wallpaper, damp patches, cracks, or uneven surfaces, they’ll need to be repaired first. Expect to pay extra for:
- Wallpaper removal: €100–€300 depending on area and difficulty
- Wall priming and smoothing: €5–€10 per sqm
4. Pattern Complexity
Pattern-matching takes skill and time. If you’re using wallpaper with a repeat pattern, you’ll need more material (and a more experienced installer), which drives up cost.
5. Room Complexity
High ceilings, awkward corners, alcoves, or lots of windows make wallpapering trickier and slower. Some pros charge a premium for difficult layouts.
6. Time / season
In busy months or when demand is high, quotes tend to be more expensive.
Is Wallpapering More Expensive Than Painting?
Yes—but only initially. Here’s why wallpaper often works out cheaper in the long run:
Feature | Wallpaper | Paint |
Initial Cost | Higher | Lower |
Lifespan | 10–15 years | 3–5 years |
Durability | More resistant to scuffs | Easier to damage |
Design Impact | High | Moderate |
Redecoration frequency | Less often | More often |
When you factor in reduced maintenance and longer intervals between redecoration, wallpaper becomes a solid investment.
Should You DIY or Hire a Wallpapering Pro?
DIY
- Pros: Save on labour, personal satisfaction
- Cons: Risk of costly mistakes, challenging with patterns, time-consuming
Hire a Professional
- Pros: Clean finish, expert pattern matching, faster results, less stress
- Cons: Higher upfront cost
Unless you’re experienced or tackling a simple wall, hiring a pro is usually worth it—especially when using expensive or patterned wallpaper. If you’re looking for guaranteed quality and eco-conscious practices, OS Decor is one of Dublin’s top choices. With a 12-month workmanship guarantee and a team of expert decorators, we ensure your walls are flawlessly finished the first time. Get a quote or book a consultation today to bring your vision to life.
What Questions Should You Ask Before Hiring a Wallpaper Installer?
- Is the quote fixed or estimated?
- Does the price include wall preparation?
- Do you charge extra for ceilings or high walls?
- How do you handle wallpaper with patterns?
- Do you offer a workmanship guarantee?
Tips to Get Best Value for Your Wallpapering Project in Dublin
Here are practical ways you can reduce cost without sacrificing too much on quality.
- Get at least three quotes – comparing different contractors will help you spot overpriced ones and see what’s realistic.
- Check what’s included – things like removal of old paper, wall repairs, priming, trims, clean‑up, and guarantee. Sometimes cheap quotes omit critical prep.
- Measure carefully + account for waste – pattern matching means more wastage, so order a little extra. It may cost more at first, but running short mid‑project is more irritating and often costlier.
- Opt for simpler patterns – geometric, small repeat, or plain wallpapers reduce labour time and waste.
- Bundle rooms – if you have more than one room, contractors might offer a discount for doing multiple rooms together.
- Plan for wall prep in advance – if you can do minor repairs yourself, you may reduce labour time.
- Schedule off‑peak – in less busy months, you may get better rates. Winter / early spring sometimes cheaper.
- Choose local suppliers / less complex logistics – shipping cost, transport, lifting heavy rolls all add up.
Final Thoughts
Wallpapering in Dublin in 2025 can cost anywhere from €200 for a simple feature wall up to €2,500+ for a large or premium project. The final price depends heavily on wallpaper quality, wall condition, design complexity, and labour time.
If you take away just a few key tips:
- Always budget for wall preparation
- Be realistic about pattern matching & wastage
- Get multiple quotes and pick based on value, not just lowest price
- Consider professional help for complex or high‑end wallpapers
Proper planning and clarity about what’s included will help you avoid nasty budget surprises—and ensure the final result is beautiful, durable, and something you’ll enjoy for years.
