Paint a Wood-Paneled Room

Get a bucket, a sponge and some dishwashing liquid and wipe down the paneling with the soap and water solution. Let the paneling dry before going on to the next step. If the paneling is in or near a kitchen and has a build-up of grease, take time to clean it with an ammonia, water and detergent cleaning solution. For stubborn dirt and grime, use an abrasive cleaning pad dampened with mineral spirits. In both cases, turn on the exhaust fan and wear rubber gloves and eye protection.

There are two solutions for removing the surface finish that prevents paint from bonding well to wood paneled surfaces. You can sand the entire wall with fine sandpaper in a pad sander or brush on a de-glossing chemical, such as Liquid Sander. All items are available at your local True Value hardware store.

Safety Alerts!

Always wear a face mask when sanding.

If you use the chemical de-glosser, follow the directions on the label and wear hand and eye protection when using them. Most de-glossers are only effective for a few hours before they must be coated with paint, so keep that in mind when you plan your work.

It's recommended that you apply a quality primer, such as True Value EasyCare® Ultra Premium Interior Primer/Sealer before painting. Most primers dry quickly and can be covered with a topcoat within a few hours, but check the label. A bonding additive can also be stirred into the first coat of paint instead of a bonding primer if you prefer.

Helpful Tip

Have your primer tinted to the approximate color of your topcoat.

Paint will make any joints and open cracks between the paneling and trim (or ceiling) more noticeable. This is a good time to seal them with acrylic latex caulk. Cut off a small portion of the end of the cartridge tip, fill the joints, and smooth with a wet finger or ice cube.

Paint the paneling with True Value EasyCare® Ultra Premium Interior Paint. Cut in (outline) an area with an angled sash brush or edging-pad paint applicator and then roll on the paint using a roller applicator with ½"-nap roller cover.

If you're going to continue working the next day, wrap paintbrushes and rollers in plastic and seal with a rubber band around the handle to keep them from drying out. Once the project is complete, clean everything with warm, soapy water. Use paint thinner on applicators only if necessary.

Helpful Tips

A brush/roller spinner is a great way to remove excess water from brushes and rollers. The tool both simplifies the task and does a better job of cleaning your equipment.

Make sure you find out where and how to dispose of paint thinner properly. Some states have laws that do not allow you to pour paint thinner down the drain.

Once the paint is dry, replace fixtures, outlet plates, pictures, etc. Restore power to the room and replace furnishings and rugs.

You did it! Take a step back and admire your new, freshly painted, room.