by Matt Fox
Co-Host of
Room by Room If you look at the materials list you notice that the last item required for painting paneling is your spouse's permission. Guys love paneling and the darker the better. I think more dark paneling was installed in the '60s and '70s than ever before. Unfortunately it isn't as attractive now as it was then.
The good thing is you won't have to remove the paneling; it can be painted. Believe me it looks terrific, my decorating pal Shari Hiller and I have painted many rooms with paneling and we haven't had one complaint from the wife or the husband.
Materials:
soap and water
220-grit sandpaper
multi-purpose primer sealer
interior latex paint
3/8-inch roller cover
paint roller, roller tray
paint brush
And your spouse's permission...
Steps:
1. Think!
The first thing you need to do is to decide if you really want to paint your paneling. After all, once it's painted, that's it. So think it over before you start. Well, do you want to continue? Then read on.
2. The good, the bad, and the ugly
Some paneling (generally the really inexpensive stuff) is actually a photo of wood grain that has been glued to the front of a plywood or composite type board. Conventional wisdom would say that this type of paneling can't be painted. Well I for one never listen to conventional wisdom.
I say paint it, but if you are still nervous about it, pick an inconspicuous spot and do a test patch. If you don't think paint will last, then don't do it. But unless you are using the room as an indoor soccer field, the paint should adhere.
3. Fat-free? No, oil-free
You need to make sure that the paneling is free of dirt and oil. Wash it well with a mild detergent and water. Dishwashing detergent works great. After the walls have dried sand lightly with 220-grit sandpaper, a pole sander can help make the job easier. After sanding, wipe the dust away with a damp cloth.
4. Go for it
Prime the paneling with a stain blocking primer. Paint it on just like a normal wall, masking off the ceiling, trim and baseboards. Cut in the edges with a brush, and roll on the primer using a 3/8-inch roller cover. Allow to dry completely, at least 24 hours. Now paint the paneling with an interior latex paint. I prefer satin finish for durability, and it can be washed easily. Paint as you did the primer, cutting in the edges with a brush, and then rolling on the paint.
Here's a little tip, after you roll a small section use a wide paint brush (4-inch) and go over it from ceiling to floor in long strokes. I do this to create a more old world look (remember, before rollers all paint was brushed on). Let dry thoroughly, then add your second coat.
5. Groovy man, groovy
What about those grooves? Well, those will remain unless you fill them all in. To do so requires filling all, and I mean (start italics) all (end italics), with spackling compound or dry wall compound, letting it dry, and then sanding it smooth. Personally, I like the groovy look. It adds texture to the wall, enhances the paint job, and I don't know about you, but I hate sanding spackle.
Are you ready to give it try? Shari and I have done it, and it turns out great. Just remember to do the prep, and you'll be fine. Maybe you can get your spouse to help. Maybe.
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