What is the proper way to paint paneling?

Question

Do you need to prime it or sand it, etc?

Answer 1

First, you need to wash it with TSP. Before you begin any painting, to clean the paneling, and remove anything on it's surface.

You should fill the grooves if you want the smooth look of sheetrock. If you don't mind the grooves, just prime, then paint the paneling. The grooves don't show up as much after everything is painted the same color. I did this in my den and it looks very good.

You can also get a nice "wallpaper-like" effect if you leave the grooves and paint each panel with one of two alternating colors. For example paint the first vertical panel with an off white, then the next with a shade darker color; alternate light, dark, light, dark. It's a bit time consuming. But the effect is like having bold striped wallpaper. Obviously it won't work with every decor, but it looks better than one might imagine.

Primer paints have better adhesion than top coats, so I would recomment using a primer typically also.Primer is the key to painting paneling. Visit this link to Zinsser for some great help on which primer would be best.
http//www.zinsser.com/primapp.html

Try using one of those multi-rollers that have patterns on the rollers. They come with duel paint trays and you use two different colors at the same time and it creates a awesome affect on the walls. Hides most of the imperfections in the paneling. This works great on smooth walls also. Get creative with the color choices and you can create some great looking rooms.

Answer 2

Best Way To Paint Paneling

Answer 3

I've done it. It turned out very well, and has lasted a long time. You won't believe what a difference it can make.

If the paneling has any grease or film on it -- like if it's in a kitchen -- you want to clean that off. Next, you just have to sand very lightly (vertically) with 200, to break the gloss and give the primer something to adhere to. For the primer, look for one that describes itself as having excellent adhesion, such as Kilz or Bullseye, or other primer-sealers. The primer is your best friend, but don't get it on other surfaces, because it's very hard to remove.

After that, you might see some seams between panels. Fill those with a latex caulk. After that dries, you can paint.

Paneling looks good painted with a slight sheen... eggshell is good. Use a roller with 3/8" nap, and plan on giving it two coats.

Answer 4

often paneling is prefinished, as a result gently sand the paneling to roughen the exterior, you're doing this so the primer adheres to the panelling extra desirable. After sanding, use a tack cloth and wipe down the paneling. this would be a rather sticky cloth which will pull each and every of the airborne dirt and dust off of any of the wood grain. next, top. Use a oil based primer to seal the wood, as maximum paneling will soak up latex based primers because of the fact they're a water base. whilst employing oil based primers be careful the scent is robust, and the freshen up is only achieved with mineral spirits. I often use low-priced throw away brushes whilst priming, so i don't would desire to scrub them whilst i'm achieved. additionally positioned on a pair of latex gloves so which you don't get spatter on your palms ( it is inevitable) Then Paint, use a high quality paint with high quality applicators. Latex based paint woul be a stable suggestion. in case you desire to scrub it sooner or later - do not use flat. in case you like the flat end, however the cleanability of a semi-gloss, get a satin end. in case you like a shine use semi-gloss. And in case you like a intense shine use gloss.

Answer 5

First, you need to wash it with TSP. This is a degreaser and will remove all the yucky stuff. You'll find TSP at your local hardware store. If you can get the liquid stuff in the blue bottle instead of the powder that you have to mix, you'll appreciate it, as it isn't toxic or hard to use. Once you have washed the panelling, the best way to get really great results is to prime it with oil primer. You can get really good oil primer now that has low odor and only takes one (1) hour to dry before you can paint latex on top! And I highly suggest using latex.

If your panelling has grooves or lines in it that you want to erase first, you'll need to fill them in with joint compound. Make sure you smooth it on and once it's dry, lightly sand it to make it all even. Use a sanding block because just using your hands with sandpaper will cause uneven sanding. Lightly wipe off the dust with a damp, soft cloth. You are then ready to paint with your favorite color of latex paint... Enjoy... it's a great low-cost way to get rid of dingy panelling... I do this often for my clients.

Answer 6

When I painted paneling in my diningroom I used a mixture of hot water and amonia to wash off any film that may have collected over the years, and let it dry over night. Then I used a primer called Z-prime, they have different ones for different applications. Just read the labels or ask the experts at the store. I let the primer dry over night and then used a semi-gloss. The results were fantastic! I chose not to fill in the grooves, and the result was a very cottagey and homey look. I hope this helps and best wishes to you in your endeavor.

Answer 7

Make sure it is clean, lightly sand and if you don't want to prime and then paint, there is a paint called Duramax that has primer in it and it is nice and thick. I just painted a house with it and am pleased with the outcome.

Answer 8

Do a light sanding on the walls, then primer then two coats of your paint. I suggest a semi gloss, flat paints look really drab on panelling.

Answer 9

I used a primer called Super Primer that adheres to any kind of wood or paint.
Then I used a semi-gloss enamel paint. Turned out really well.
Good Luck

Answer 10

I did it the lazy way....Go to any store(Wal-mart,Kmart,Fred's,etc) pick-up CHEAP white flat paint. Use this as a primer coat. Then give it 2 coats. Go get the type of paint you want to use and have at it. Good luck.