How do I deal with 1970's fake pecan paneling?
+7
I HATE it! I've lived in three places now with the stuff and it just HAS TO GO. Needs to be as inexpensive as possible. If I can not demo it, that would be great. My husband is not handy. But if that's the only way to get rid of it, I will do it. I can always have a temper tantrum and punch holes in it. Whoops! How did that happen?
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It's attached to existing walls (drywall, etc.) And most are just attached with thin paneling nails. It's easy to remove. I've done this to several walls.
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.
And some people glued it to the walls and others have put it up without sheetrock under it (right on the studs). You'll just have to check it out and see how it was put up. There is always painting or putting up wallpaper on it.
You could always paint them!
Paint it!
Ha, ha, Ellen, no temper tantrum needed. Get yourself a long handled roller paintbrush. Paint over the pecan paneling with any white paint and let it dry. Then give it two coats of your favorite color in the world. Mine is a sea mist green, except I like mine bluer. We only painted one wall with my color, and the other walls are about two shades off white. Replace the COLOR of the pecan paneling to a color that will make you happy every time you see it. I’m guessing your favorite color is a soft coral sunset. Or blue, like 85% of people. Sweet daydreams!
Taking off the paneling is easy. Replacing it with sheet rock Requires a bit more work, then painting, putting the trim back on. Totally doable over a couple of days. You would be surprised it might not be that expensive to hire this job out. You’ll sleep better at night knowing that paneling is gone for good.