No longer stuck with a brown paneled wall, painting allows the homeowner to choose from a variety of colors.
Painting paneling is an inexpensive way to transform an outdated room into a modern living space. The key to a great paint job on paneling is to properly prepare the paneling before you begin to paint.
Cleaning
Before beginning the painting process, a paneled wall should be cleaned to remove any dust or grime that may have accumulated over the years. Many types of wood paneling have slightly rough surfaces, which are ideal places for little dust bunnies to hang. Gently wipe the walls using a white cloth and warm water mixed with a small amount of mild dish washing liquid. Allow to thoroughly dry.
Priming
Paneling has a smooth finish that will not soak up paint. To keep the paint from peeling and blistering, it is essential that a good quality primer be applied before the paint. There are commercial primers available specifically for smooth, glossy and slick surfaces. In addition to prepping the surface to receive the paint, priming also helps to cover the dark color of wood panels. This reduces the amount of paint that must be applied. With fewer coats of paint, you reduce the potential for peeling and blistering. Primers can be tinted to closely match the finished color for the wall. This will help to reduce the paint needed to one or two coats.
Getting in the Grooves
The grooves in paneling make painting a bit more time consuming. The grooves must be painted with a paintbrush before the wall is painted with a paint roller.
Drying Time
Allow the walls to completely dry between coats of primer and paint. Most manufacturers include recommended drying times on their labels. Due to the humidity of a room, you may actually need to expand the recommended drying time. Make sure that the walls are completely dry between each coat of paint.
Even It Out
If there are uneven seams, use finish nails to tack them back into place. Take the time to fill and sand any holes. When a paneling has a grainy texture, it is easier to fill a nail hole with your finger than it is to use a spackling tool.
Choose the Right Paint
Flat paints help to hide any surface irregularities on the paneling. Manufacturers now make flat paints that are as washable and durable as glossy paints.
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