ᐅ Wall Finishes in Existing Buildings

Created on: 17 Nov 2025 14:50
E
erwind2
Hello,

I removed the textured wallpaper from an apartment built in the 1970s. Underneath, there is a single-layer gypsum plaster that has cracks and holes in some areas.

I initially didn’t want to install wallpaper again, so I discussed with the plasterer about embedding a reinforcing mesh and then applying filler to create a smooth, paint-ready surface.

However, the cost for this turned out to be higher than expected, so I now want to install wallpaper again, but definitely not textured wallpaper. I saw a wallpaper with a grid-like pattern in a new build that looks nice to me and has some texture (so it’s not completely smooth), where the difference to painted plaster is very minimal in my opinion; see image: wallpaper on the left, painted gypsum plaster on the right.

The condition of the apartment is shown in the following pictures.

How can I achieve the condition shown in the first image?
1. Sand the wall/ceiling, fill holes in the wall, and then wallpaper directly, or
2. Sand the wall/ceiling, apply painting fleece (also known as scrim or wall lining fabric), and then wallpaper?

For option 2, I am curious how much the fleece affects the surface under the wallpaper. As shown in the picture, the door frame is a steel frame and is not protruding much. I want to avoid the wall being flush with the door frame afterward. The frame should still stand out slightly.

Close-up of a wall with two surfaces: plaster on the left, smooth wall on the right.

Corner of a room in need of renovation with peeling plaster on ceiling and wall

White wall with patching plaster spots and small holes, visible construction defects
E
erwind2
22 Nov 2025 21:51
Which type of painter’s fleece would you recommend? What thickness should be chosen approximately?