How do I cover up wall paneling?

I love painted wood panels. Especially a light color.

Kim: No problem! Painting paneling could not be easier --- and gives an element of texture to a room.

Merely dust/clean. Then use a good primer for best results. Then: two coats of a good latex paint.

Here's my "paneled" wall -- to the left of the fireplace!

I agree that painting the paneling is the easiest and least expensive way to change up your room. A light color will totally change the appearance and feel of the room. Use a good stain-blocking primer or a good paint with primer included. Go for it.

Easiest method it to paint the paneling assuming it is good condition. You will want to use a good primer before painting. The primer will make sure there is no bleed thru. The knots in the paneling are especially prone to bleed thru if not primed first. After that dries apply the paint shade of your choice. It doesn't have to be white any light color will work. Good luck!

First dust the paneling, make sure the groves are dust free. Use a swifter it makes this task much easier. Make sure you get a stain blocking primer, as Mogie said you do not want bleed through. If you have a sprayer, that would be the best for no brush marks. If that is not possible go to a paint store such as Sherwin Williams or Benjamin Moore and buy a good roller, Mohair is a good choice not to leave paint marks. Purdy makes an excellent roller for this too. You can paint the paneling any color you like. Light colors usually look best.

Before making a final decision, clean the paneling. See exactly what you have. Use a good wood cleaner like Old English. or Murphy's Oil Soap. If your new "old" home has not cleaned the paneling in a while, you might just love it after it has been cleaned. You might find that it has really good bones.

Hey Kim! I think I would paint it as others have stated here, it is a simple fix and when painted, paneling looks a lot like vertical shiplap which is trendy right now! Otherwise, you can easily cover it with a solid 1/4" plywood or drywall over it depending on the look you are going for!

Hope that helps!

Paint

Make sure the paneling is clean and dry. Prime with a good stain blocking primer like Kilz. Then paint like painting regular walls. Acrilyc latex paint will work. If the paneling has grooves you can fill them with non shrink drywall patching compound. Just put on enough to fill the grooves. Let it dry overnight. Next day use a damp sponge to smooth the patch. Then prime and paint.