How to Paint Paneling

Difficulty

Beginner

Duration

Over 1 day

Painting wood paneling is a simple way to change the look of a room. A fresh coat of paint quickly updates old wood paneling or wainscoting for less than the cost of replacing the walls. This Home Depot guide gives you step-by-step instructions on how to paint paneling. It lists paint tools you'll need, tells you the best paint for paneling and gives tips on choosing a primer for wood paneling.  

Tip: Work in a properly ventilated space. If the paint fumes are strong, wear a respirator.

1

Clean the Wall

Start with a clean, dry surface. Dust the paneling and wash off dirt and any grease and grime buildup with soapy water and a sponge.

Tip: Most dishwashing liquids will clean paneling or you can choose to buy a heavy-duty degreaser.

2

Fill Holes and Grooves

Woman filling in grooves in paneling with putty.

Use a putty knife and apply spackling or caulk to fill nail holes. Scrape off any excess. Allow to dry until hard.

Tip: If your paneling has groove lines, fill these in using a caulk gun for a smoother painted surface.

3

Sand

An important step in learning how to paint paneling is making sure the surface will hold paint. Most paneling has a sheen finish that paint won’t adhere to. Remove this finish by gently sanding the walls, trim and mouldings with 150-grit sandpaper. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dust and residue.

4

Prime

When painting for wood paneling, choose either a stain-blocking latex primer or an oil-based primer. Apply a thin coat of primer with a roller. Use a brush to fill in any grooves. Allow the primer to dry a full 24 hours before painting over it.

Tip: Before painting paneling, use painter's tape to mask off your mouldings, windows, doors and ceiling.

5

Paint

Begin painting your paneling at the top of the wall and work your way down. You can use a brush or a roller as long as you smooth out any drips as you go. Let the first coat dry before you apply a second coat.

Tip: Remove painters tape before paint dries or slice through any dried-on painter’s tape with a utility knife while pulling it up at a 45-degree angle.

Note: Practice lead paint safety. If the house or surface you're painting was built before 1978, see EPA's renovation, repair and painting program for guidelines.