How can I convert faux- wood paneling?

Tam21299243
by Tam21299243

Have a modular home with that '70s wood paneling throughout. Would like to paint, paper, level out, or anything that would give the walls a fresher look. Thank you

  4 answers
  • Chris aka monkey Chris aka monkey on Aug 18, 2018

    paint would be your easier and least expensive wall and you will be amazed at the difference it makes, hope this helps xx

  • Dee Dee on Aug 18, 2018

    Prime the paneling with a good stain blocking primer. Then paint whatever color you want to. I would use eggshell to keep the shine down.

  • 16999903 16999903 on Aug 18, 2018

    Hello Tam! You can certainly do just about any of those things to update the look of your home. Wallpaper is coming back, but I would suggest something that is more subdued and natural. Since you would be papering over paneling you would need to first paper a layer of wallpaper liner. It's very easy to use and is thick enough to disquise the groves in the panels.


    Personally, if it has a natural wood grain, I prefer painted paneling. Use a light color to make your space look bigger. You'll need to prime it first since you would be painting over a darker color (the wallpaper liner serves that purpose too.) When painting a lighter color, it's best to use plain white primer. It will help you cover with your top color if there is a slight difference in shades. Always paint with the grain of wood.


    An eggshell or semi gloss looks softer and less commercial unless you're painting a bath or kitchen, then go for gloss. It's easier to clean.


    Good luck and send us before and after pictures!



    • See 1 previous
    • 16999903 16999903 on Sep 03, 2018

      Oh...sorry for the delay. Yes, the grooves will show when you paint paneling, but it really enhances the look of your wall. Don't try to fill them if you paint because the texture of the wood will still show through. Painted panelling really looks very nice with the grooves. Use an "eggshell" or satin finish to pick up the fine pattern of the woodgrain and grooves. Flat paint will hide all of that. Best of luck!

  • Betti Betti on Aug 18, 2018

    I had faux paneling on my enclosed porch and I absolutely hated it! I painted it a sort of celery green then diluted the paint to get a lighter color, mixed it with glaze and sponged a pattern on. You can make a pattern yourself from a sponge or buy one at Lowes, Home Depot, probably any store that sells paint supplies. The result was amazing! I have gotten so many compliments on it and I'm not much of a DIYer LOL. Good luck!!