Painting wood paneling can completely transform the look and feel of a room. With the right prep work and paint, you can take dark, dated wood paneling and give it a fresh, modern look. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to paint wood paneling the right way.

Introduction

Painting over wood paneling is a popular and affordable way to update the look of a room. It allows you to change the color and style without the expense of replacing the paneling. With some simple preparation and the right paint, you can give wood paneling a whole new look.

When painting wood paneling, there are some key steps to follow:

• Properly prepare the wood paneling by cleaning, sanding, and priming
• Choose the right type of paint – latex or oil-based
• Apply painter’s tape to edges and trim
• Use a high-quality roller and brush to apply two coats of paint
• Allow proper dry time between coats
• Remove painter’s tape promptly for clean edges

Follow these steps correctly, and you can achieve a painted wood panel look that holds up for years. This guide will walk you through the entire process in detail so you can paint wood paneling the right way.

Supplies Needed

Before starting your wood paneling paint project, make sure you have the right supplies on hand:

• Drop cloths – protect floors and furniture
• TSP substitute or other degreaser cleaner
• Sandpaper – 120 and 220 grit recommended
• Painter’s tape
• Paint primer – oil or latex-based
• Paint – semi-gloss or satin latex recommended
• Paint brushes – 2-3″ angled sash brush
• Paint roller – 3/8″ nap roller cover
• Roller tray with liner
• Paint stick for stirring
• Rags
• Painter’s 5-in-1 tool
• Ladder or step stool

Gather all these supplies beforehand so your project goes smoothly from start to finish. Having the right tools for the job will make all the difference.

Step 1: Clean and Prepare the Wood Paneling

Thoroughly cleaning and preparing the wood paneling is one of the most important steps before painting. Any grease, dirt, or grime will prevent the paint from properly adhering. Here are the key steps for prepping wood paneling:

Clean Surface with TSP Substitute

Using a TSP substitute cleaner or other degreaser, wash down all the wood paneling to remove any grease, dirt, or grime. Be sure to follow directions on the cleaner carefully.

Wear rubber gloves and have proper ventilation when cleaning. Rinse thoroughly with clean water when done.

Allow the wood paneling to fully dry before moving on to sanding. This may take several hours.

Sand Lightly with 120 Grit Sandpaper

Once dry, lightly sand all the paneling using 120 grit sandpaper. This helps removes any glossy finish and allows the primer and paint to adhere properly.

Be sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain. Go over all the surfaces, sanding just enough to scuff up the wood finish.

Sand Edges and Details with 220 Grit

For areas like edges, trim, and any engraved wood details, step down to 220 grit sandpaper for smooth results. Going over the edges and details with a finer 220 grit prevents problems like peeling or chipped paint later on.

Sweep, dust, and wipe down the wood paneling when sanding is complete. Now the surface is ready for primer.

Step 2: Apply Primer to the Wood Paneling

Priming is a crucial step before painting wood paneling. Primer creates a smooth, unified surface for the paint to adhere to. It also seals the wood paneling and prevents bleeding ofwood resins or tannins into the topcoat of paint.

Here are some tips for priming wood paneling correctly:

Use Oil-Based or Stain-Blocking Primer

For best results on wood paneling, always use an oil-based primer or stain-blocking latex primer. These primers seal resins and tannins in wood so they won’t bleed through the paint.

Apply with a Brush or Roller

Use a quality angled sash brush to cut in edges and corners. Then roll on an even coat of primer with a 3/8″ nap roller cover. Work in sections approx. 4 ft. square.

Allow Proper Dry Time

Oil-based primers take 6-8 hours to dry. Latex primers dry in 2-4 hours. The primer needs to fully dry before applying paint.

Look for Missed Spots

Inspect the wood paneling and touch up any spots the primer may have missed after it dries. Pay special attention to corners, edges and crevices.

Priming properly ensures your painted wood paneling has a flawless, uniform finish. Don’t skip this key step!

Step 3: Apply Painter’s Tape to Trim and Edges

Once the primer has dried, it’s time to tape off any trim, edges, ceilings, or baseboards with painter’s tape. This keeps your paint lines neat and prevents sloppy edges.

Here are some painter’s tape tips:

• Use high quality, multi-surface tape like FrogTape brand
• Remove any dust or dirt where tape will adhere
• Apply tape so the edges press down firmly
• Follow along the edges smoothly, don’t stretch or bend the tape
• For clean lines, run tape 1-2″ from edges, not right next to them

Take time applying the tape so your edges turn out sharp and crisp when painting. Touch up edges carefully with a brush when removing the tape later on.

Step 4: Paint the Wood Paneling

With your prep work and taping completed, you’re ready to apply paint to the wood paneling. Here are tips for achieving an immaculate painted paneling finish:

Choose Interior Latex Paint

For the paint, select a top-quality interior latex paint in a satin, semi-gloss, or high gloss sheen. Latex paint applies easily and holds up better than oil-based on paneling.

Cut In the Edges First

Using an angled sash brush, carefully cut in all the edges along the painter’s tape lines first. Avoid getting paint on the tape itself.

Roll On Two Coats

Pour paint into roller tray and roll on a smooth, even coat using a 3/8″ nap roller. Work in 4×4 ft. sections. Allow the first coat to dry completely before adding the second finish coat.

Work Methodically

Move slowly and methodically while painting. First roll vertically, then roll horizontally to ensure coverage in recessed grooves. Apply paint generously but avoid runs or drips.

Allow Proper Dry Time

Let the paint dry a full 24 hours before removing painter’s tape or doing a second coat. Drying time depends on humidity levels.

With good prep and careful paint application, you can achieve an immaculate, smooth painted wood paneling finish.

Step 5: Remove Tape Promptly and Clean Up

As soon as the paint has dried, remove the painter’s tape from edges and trim. Pull slowly and carefully parallel to the surface. Touch up edges smoothly with brush if needed.

Use a 5-in-1 tool to scrape any drips or splatters on moldings or adjacent surfaces. Wipe down with a damp rag before paint dries completely.

Clean brushes promptly with soap and water. Follow all safety recommendations when disposing of rags, drop cloths, or chemicals.

Tips for Achieving a Flawless Painted Paneling Finish

Follow these additional tips and tricks for getting the highest quality, long-lasting results painting over wood paneling:

• Lightly sand and vacuum between coats for a smooth finish
• Maintain room temperature of at least 50°F as paint cures
• Allow paint to cure for several weeks before wiping or cleaning
• Consider using a paint sprayer for large paneling projects
• Tint primer close to final wall color for better coverage
• Fill any cracks or holes with painter’s caulk before priming
• Use thinning bar to paint into paneling grooves for full coverage
• For stubborn stains, shellac primer can help block bleed-through

Taking the time to properly prepare, prime, paint, and clean-up will leave you with a stunning, revitalized wood paneled room. Use high quality primer and paint, combined with attention to detail, for results that will last.

How to Paint Different Types of Wood Paneling

There are several common types of wood paneling, each with their own look and texture. While the prep and painting technique is largely the same for any type of paneling, there are a few considerations for different wood materials:

V-Groove

V-groove is the most common type of wood paneling. It has a distinctive V-shaped groove pattern running vertically. When painting v-groove, use a thin brush to carefully paint down into the grooves for full coverage.

Beadboard

Beadboard paneling has thin, horizontally oriented boards with small grooves in between. Use short, horizontal strokes when painting to avoid smudging into grooves.

MDF

MDF (medium density fiberboard) paneling is smooth and will not have deep grooves like real wood. Sanding and priming is still vital for proper paint adhesion.

Knotty Pine

Knotty pine paneling has a highly textured surface with numerous crevices, cracks and knots. Shellac-based primer can help block stubborn stains in knotty pine before painting.

Test your paint and preparation techniques in an inconspicuous area first. Certain more porous or textured wood types may require additional sanding and priming to achieve full, even coverage.

Painting vs. Refinishing Wood Paneling

When preparing to update old, dated wood paneling, you have two main options – paint over it or refinish the existing wood. Here are some pros and cons of painting vs. refinishing:

Painting

Pros

• Much faster and easier process
• No chemicals or stripping needed
• Unlimited color options – pick any paint color!
• More affordable option

Cons

• Some loss of texture from original wood grain
• Need to prep and repaint periodically
• Not easily reversed

Refinishing

Pros

• Preserves natural wood look and grain
• Long-lasting when properly sealed
• Can complement existing wood trim

Cons

• Extensive sanding and stripping required
• Harsh chemical strippers often needed
• Color limited to wood stains available
• Not effective if wood is damaged

Ultimately, the best option depends on the condition of your wood paneling, the existing style, your budget, and the look you hope to achieve. For dramatically changing the color from dark to light, painting wood paneling is usually the better route. But for a subtle update preserving the wood grain, refinishing may be the way to go.

Wall Prep Before Painting Over Wood Paneling

In addition to properly preparing the wood itself, you also need to prep the surrounding walls and trim when painting over wood paneling. Here are some steps to take:

• Remove any nails, hooks or hangers in walls
• Fill any holes or cracks wider than a pen mark with drywall filler
• Lightly sand glossy paint on moldings and trim before priming
• Clean surrounding walls thoroughly to remove grease or dirt
• Use 220 grit sandpaper to scuff walls before priming
• Cut in wall edges cleanly along the paneling with brush

Prepping both the wood paneling and the surrounding walls is key for a cohesive, seamless painted finish.

Choosing Paint Sheen and Finish

One of the great benefits of painting wood paneling is it allows you to customize the finish and sheen. Here are some tips on sheen for painted paneling:

• Flat or matte paint will showcase any imperfections
• Eggshell provides a subtle sheen, hides flaws, and easy to clean
• Satin, pearl, or semi-gloss offer a classy luster and durability
• High gloss gives a bold, shiny finish but requires perfect prep

For most paneling projects, satin or semi-gloss sheens provide the best look. The hint of shine adds depth while still masking any minor imperfections after sanding and priming the wood properly.

Painting Stained Wood Paneling

Stained wood paneling presents some extra challenges when painting. Stains can bleed through latex paint over time. Here are some tips when painting previously stained wood:

• Use an oil-based primer or stain-blocking shellac primer
• May need two coats of primer for heavily stained wood
• Sand well before priming to remove top stain layer
• Tint primer coat close to final wall color if using latex paint
• Test for bleed-through by applying strips of painters tape after priming

Taking the time to properly block stains prevents discoloration and blotchiness down the road. When in doubt, use an oil-based paint for your topcoat as it adheres better and resists bleeding.

Painting Around Wood Trim

One potential challenge when painting wood panel walls is dealing with existing wood trim. Here are some tips for a seamless transition:

• Never paint trim and wall the same color – big mistake!
• Tape off trim when painting walls to keep edges crisp
• “Cut in” carefully along trim with angled sash brush
• Remove tape immediately after painting before it dries
• For a smooth look, sand trim lightly before priming and painting
• Use thinner trim paint to avoid build up along edges
• Caulk gaps between trim and walls, then prime and paint
• “Feather” brushed edges seamlessly into existing trim

The goal is to integrate the trim and painted walls smoothly. Take care when taping, cutting in edges, and feathering transitions for a seamless finished look.

FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about painting wood paneling:

Should I remove wood paneling before painting?

• In most cases, you do not need to remove the wood paneling – prep and paint over it. Removing wood paneling is time consuming, damages walls, and creates unnecessary work.

What kind of paint adheres best to wood paneling?

• A high-quality interior latex paint provides excellent adhesion on primed wood paneling. Use a satin, semi-gloss, or high gloss sheen for durability and easy cleaning.

Do I need to primer before painting wood paneling?

• Yes, priming is a must before painting wood paneling. Oil-based primer or stain-blocking latex primer seals the wood and prevents bleed through.

How many paint coats are needed on wood paneling?

• For best results, apply two finish coats of latex paint over the primer coat. Allow proper dry time between coats for a durable painted finish.

Can I paint over stained wood paneling?

• Yes, you can paint previously stained wood paneling. Use a stain-blocking primer to prevent bleed through. Lightly sanding also helps remove some surface stain.

How do I paint around existing wood trim?

• Carefully tape off wood trim before painting panel walls. Use a trim paint to avoid build up. Feather edges smoothly when cutting in for a seamless transition.

Conclusion

Painting over dated or dark wood paneling instantly brightens up a room with color and style. Follow the steps here for priming, taping, painting, and cleaning up and you can achieve stunning results. Use high quality primer, proper preparation, and care when cutting in edges for a durable, beautiful painted paneling finish. With some time and effort, you can modernize and transform any wood paneled space.

How to Choose the Right Paint and Supplies

Picking the right paint and supplies is critical for a successful paneling paint project. Here are some tips on choosing the best products:

Select the Right Type of Primer

• For bare wood, use an oil-based primer or stain-blocking latex primer
• Oil-based primers offer the best protection against stains bleeding through
• Shellac-based primer also effective at sealing in wood resins and knots
• If wood is already painted, an all-purpose latex primer is usually sufficient

Use High-Quality Latex Paint

• A satin or semi-gloss interior latex paint provides a subtle sheen and durability
• Latex acrylic formulas adhere well and resist yellowing over time
• Choose a top brand paint like Behr, Benjamin Moore, or Sherwin-Williams
• Opt for mold and mildew resistant latex paint in damp rooms

Use the Proper Brushes and Rollers

• Use a 2-3 inch angled sash brush for cutting in edges and corners
• Select a woven polyester or microfiber roller cover for smooth results
• Choose a 3/8″ nap size roller for standard paneling depth
• Microfiber mini rollers work well for recessed paneling grooves
• Buy quality brushes – poor brushes leave streaks and lint behind

Other Essential Supplies

• Painter’s tape for creating sharp trim and edge lines
• High quality drop cloths to protect floors and furniture
• Ladder or step stool for reaching high walls and ceilings
• 5-in-1 tool for scraping any paint drips or splatters
• Paint stick for mixing and stirring paint and primer

Investing in the right tools and supplies makes painting wood paneling faster with a more professional quality finish. Don’t try to cut corners on primers, paint, or applicators.

How to Prepare Wood Paneling for Painting

Thoroughly preparing wood paneling before painting is crucial for achieving a smooth, lasting finish. Here are step-by-step tips to properly prep paneling:

Clean Surface

Use TSP substitute cleaner and a stiff scrub brush to remove any dirt, grease or grime. For heavy soiling, consider a degreasing citrus cleaner. Rinse thoroughly and allow to fully dry.

Sand Away Glossy Finish

Lightly sand with 120 grit paper to scuff up any glossy coating and allow primer and paint to adhere. Always