How to Paint Over Wood Paneling
A DIY Home Improvement
Project
Introduction:
When we
think of wood paneling, we often get the image of
old, tired knotty pine panel walls that have
darkened or yellowed over time. In one form or
another, paneled walls have been around for
centuries and can be restored and preserved. Faded
walnut or pine walls dating to the 1800’s and even
earlier can be incredibly beautiful if left in
their natural state.
In the past few decades,
less expensive paneling became a common fixture in
middle class housing, especially in finished
basements and in homes in very humid climates.
Painted bead board paneling is a classic feature in
cottages as well as homes looking to emulate a
casual relax look of a den or recreational room.
Old dark paneled walls
really look dated. These walls have darkened over
time and can make an already dark space feel like a
tomb. To restore a more pleasant atmosphere to the
room these old paneled walls can be painted as a
DIY home improvement project.
How to paint over wood
paneling:
-
Proper preparation
is essential for any painting project and
particularly important for painting over natural
wood surfaces such as paneling. In order to paint
any surface it must be clean and dry.
Thoroughly
clean the paneling with warm soap and water to
remove contaminants such as, built up dirt, grime,
grease, body oils, etc.
-
Let dry for twenty
four hours before proceeding.
-
Sand the surface
until it is dull and there is no visible shine. A
chemical stripper or de-glosser may be used to
eliminate the shiny surface and ensure proper paint
adhesion of the new paint.
-
Applying a good coat
of primer. An oil-based primer is better for using
on wood paneling than latex but if the surfaces are
prepared correctly a latex primer can be used.
Apply a thin layer of primer and allow to
dry completely.
-
Apply as many thin
layers of paint as necessary for a good covering.
Allow sufficient drying time in between coats to
achieve the best finish result.
Painted wood paneling has
more character than sheetrock and can be refinished
in many different styles. You are only limited by
your imagination as to the different designs and
styles that you can paint old paneled walls.
Related articles:
How to Paint Aluminum Siding
How
to Paint a Ceiling
How to Paint a Flat Panel Door
How to Paint Interior Doors
