When it comes to giving your walls a fresh new look, most interior designers will quickly recommend either paint or wallpaper. But here’s the secret: what they don’t always tell you could save you money, stress, and disappointment.
At Rangi Paint Store — the best paint store in Kenya — we’ve seen clients face this dilemma countless times. So, let’s dive into the truth behind paint vs wallpaper, and why one option often comes out on top.
🎨 The Case for Paint
✅ Advantages of Paint
- Cost-effective: Paint is generally cheaper upfront and in the long run.
- Easier to change: Want a new vibe? Repainting is faster and less costly than re-wallpapering.
- Durability in Kenyan climate: With high humidity in some regions, quality paint resists peeling better than wallpaper.
- Customization: From matte to gloss, textured finishes to accent walls, paint offers limitless design flexibility.
⚠️ Disadvantages of Paint
- Requires repainting every few years (usually 3–5 years).
- Can chip or crack if the surface isn’t prepared properly.
- Professional finish may require skilled painters.
👉 Pro Tip: Using eco-friendly, low-VOC paint from Rangi Paint Store ensures healthier indoor air and long-lasting results.
🖼️ The Case for Wallpaper
✅ Advantages of Wallpaper
- Instant design impact: Patterns, textures, and murals can create dramatic looks.
- Long-lasting: Good quality wallpaper can last up to 10–15 years.
- Variety: Huge range of prints, from subtle patterns to bold artistic statements.
⚠️ Disadvantages of Wallpaper (What Designers Won’t Tell You)
- Kenyan humidity is the enemy: In areas like Mombasa or Kisumu, wallpaper can peel and bubble.
- Cost of installation: Skilled installers are few and charge more. Mistakes are expensive.
- Difficult to remove: Once glued, taking wallpaper down can damage walls.
- Not pet/kid friendly: Children, pets, and even water spills can easily ruin wallpaper.
💡 Paint vs Wallpaper: Which One Wins in Kenya?
While wallpaper is trendy and stylish, paint is more practical, affordable, and climate-friendly in most Kenyan homes. Unless you’re investing in very high-end, imported wallpaper with professional installation, paint remains the smarter choice.
And here’s the catch designers won’t say outright: most wallpaper is imported, making repairs or replacements a nightmare. Paint, on the other hand, is always available — and in Kenya, Rangi Paint Store provides eco-friendly, durable options that are perfect for our climate.
🛒 Where to Buy the Best Paint in Kenya
If you’re ready to refresh your walls, skip the uncertainty. At Rangi Paint Store, you’ll find:
- Premium eco-friendly paints suited for Kenyan weather.
- A wide variety of finishes and shades for every style.
- Affordable prices with delivery options across Kenya.
👉 Visit rangi.co.ke today to explore our full range and make the smarter choice for your home or office.
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Which lasts longer, paint or wallpaper?
Wallpaper may last longer (10–15 years), but paint is easier and cheaper to maintain in Kenyan conditions.
Q2: Is wallpaper good for humid areas like Mombasa?
Not really. Humidity causes peeling and bubbling, making paint a better option.
Q3: Can I mix paint and wallpaper in one room?
Yes! Many designers use wallpaper on a feature wall and paint on the other walls.
Q4: What’s the most cost-effective option in Kenya?
Paint is more budget-friendly in both installation and maintenance.
✅ Final Word
When comparing paint vs wallpaper, the choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and climate. But if you want durability, flexibility, and value for money in Kenya — paint is the smarter long-term solution.
💡 And with Rangi Paint Store — the best paint store in Kenya — you can rest assured you’re investing in premium, eco-friendly paints that keep your walls beautiful for years.

