Friday, March 6, 2009

How to Paint Over Paneling to Change a Room's Decor

By Sue Krippner

Many homes, in particular older homes, have wood paneling on the walls, putting limits on choices when redesigning a room. In these instances, the question how to paint over paneling is one to consider, especially since the walls play a huge part in changing the dcor of a room. The walls are what set the color scheme and are generally used as a focal point when decorating a room. With paneled walls, there's not much interior design that can be done to brighten up a room.

How to paint over paneling is a frequently asked question among do-it-yourselfers, many of whom have older homes where wood paneling is the norm. But dark wood paneling hinders creativity in home design. For that reason, painting over the paneling is an option to consider.

Cost is one area that should be considered when looking into how to paint over paneling. There are other options, like installing wall board, tearing down the paneling and hanging sheetrock in its place, or putting up plasterboard. In terms of the costs involved, painting the paneling is less expensive and is easier and faster.

When researching how to paint over paneling, take time to review the preparations involved. Before paint can be applied, it is likely you might need to sand the wood paneling and add spackle to any indentations. Use a damp sponge to clean away any wood dust. Applying an oil or latex primer is also necessary because wood paneling is not an ideal surface for paint to adhere to. Some tools you will need for the prep work are sandpaper, spackle or pre-mix plaster, a putty knife, and a sponge or rag.

How to paint over paneling and gain more design choices with room color takes time, but the results are well worth it. The shade of the wood paneling will dictate the number of coats of paint it will need. High quality paint is recommended for the job to ensure the best application. It is important not to rush the paint process. Check the paint can for the proper drying time and follow it before adding the second coat.

Grooves between the panels are one thing to keep in mind when looking into how to paint over paneling. They are a bit difficult to cover over smoothly with primer and paint, so use caulk, spackle, or pre-mix plaster first to fill in as much as possible. Then take the edge of a paintbrush and fill in with paint to even out the surface as much as possible.

In determining how to paint over paneling, the best tool to use is a paint roller. This allows you to cover the surface quickly and evenly. With a smooth and steady painting technique, the finished product will look just as great as any painted wall in your home. During the entire painting process, be sure there is proper ventilation.

When thinking about how to paint over paneling, set aside at least three or four days to complete a room. Any room is a candidate for painting over paneling, including the family room, bedroom, or living room. Wherever there is paneling on the walls, painting them is an inexpensive way to open the walls of the room to more interesting interior design projects. - 15252

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