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Wood panelingcan make a home feel warm and comfortable.
Since removing it could be costly, consider a coat of paint.
It can instantly make that dingy paneling look fresh and bright for a fraction of the cost.
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To Paint or Not to Paint?
Whether or not topaint wood panelingandmoldingsis often up for debate.
When discussing higher-quality, solid wood paneling, the decision can be more complicated.
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Consider an oil-based primer for good coverage and to aid against bleed-through.
Need more help?
Cover baseboards, remove outlet covers, and put a drop cloth down on the floor.
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Tip
Typically, interior latex paint with a satin finish is the best choice for painting paneling.
It goes on easily and provides good coverage.
Clean the Molding and Paneling
Begin by making sure the paneling is clean.
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A damp rag will remove most of the dust, dirt, and cobwebs.
Never paint over a dirty surface because the paint wont adhere properly.
If desired, lightly sand all of the paneling, along with trim and moldings, with 150-grit sandpaper.
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The idea is to take off the sheen and create a lightly gritty surface so the paint will adhere.
Try not to get carried away and sand too hard.
When you’re finished, wipe it down with a slightly damp cloth to remove all the dust.
Note:Sanding is optional and often is not necessary.
Using agood primerthat will stick to the old finish usually means you don’t have to sand the wood.
Just keep in mind that if the primer doesn’t stick well, neither will the paint.
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Sanding always improves adhesion.
Some paneling that is acting like wood may just be amelamine finish.
If it is, sanding and a primer are recommended.
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Check with your paint supplier for the proper primer.
check that touse “paintable” caulk.
Allow the caulk to dry, as directed by the manufacturer.
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confirm to cover the entire surface, including any trim.
Its best to use an oil-based primer or a water-based stain-blocking primer.
These will prevent any grease or wood stains from coming through and ruining your paint job.
Paint the Paneling
Apply a thin coat of paintto all paneling surfaces.
With your brush, remove any excess paint that collects in the panel grooves.
Take care of any drips right away, too.
Let the first coat dry, as directed, then apply a second coat.
Its definitely worth the extra time and materials.
Paint the Trim
Paint the trim your desired color.
However, this really comes down to personal preference.
Then, pick a high-quality primer that will help the paint go on with even coverage.
Use an interior latex paint with a satin finish for easy system and even coverage over wood paneling.
A primer is a critical step when painting over wood paneling, even if it’s fake!
Use an oil-based primer to help the paint grip to the faux wood paneling.
Otherwise, it’s fine to leave the grooves alone.
Lead in Paint.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
