We moved into a home built in the 70s. The walls in 2 rooms had peelin

You're right that the cost of supplies and multiple cans of paint (plus your labour) can add up; painting isn't always the cheapest or easiest solution in the long run.

I understand that the second bedroom still has the same paneling. If it is the smooth new look of drywall that you are seeking, I would suggest that you leave it and save up until you can completely remove it and apply new drywall.

Yes it is a lot of work, time and money. Another option would be to remove the paneling and replace with sheetrock, that would still be a big project as you still have to prime and paint. Can you post a photo? Maybe some creative Hometalkers might come up with a brilliant suggestion.

Do you know what’s underneath the paneling? It could just be a wall and used as a decoration(some trends are hard to understand) you just might remove it and paint. there are also thinner sheets of Sheetrock that can be placed over the paneling. See what’s underneath. You may be surprised.

You can cover the paneling with wall liner. It is then paintable like drywall.

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Good surface prep and a primer are important.

Consider looking on the back of your paint can for the customer service contact phone number. They would be able to give you the most professional recommendations.

Val-spar provided us with free replacement primer when the first primer failed with wood knot bleed thru on a stained wood paneled ceiling. They are very willing to work with you. We’ve had the same kind of service with BEHR paints as well.

I hope you find your answer I understand your insecurity we had several primers fail but do recommend the 1-800# they provided excellent support!

Sounds like someone painted latex over oil-based paint/varnish. I tear up a piece of the paneling and see if there is drywall underneath, if so I would rip it off. If they glued it you will have to remove the old glue by scraping and sanding it off. Then prime and paint.