I have paneling in my den. I think it is called library paneling. should I keep it or paint it? Any ideas?

Question

Some of my friends say it is cozy and warm. Some say paint it and brighten it up. It is not the traditional paneling with the grooves. It is a solid wood look, it think it is called library paneling. HELP!

Answer 1

Naturally it is your call. I have something similar and we painted it a gray. I can't believe the difference that changing the color made. The room looks a lot bigger and brighter now. We have grey furniture and a matching blue-grey wall paper in the paneling now. Really made a difference.

good luck.

Answer 2

Painted Library Paneling

Answer 3

Alexander and Frista L are correct (and I suspect have graduate degrees in Physics), but let me add a little clarity and a correction regarding car radiators. 1) Why are solar panels painted black? Solar electric panels are not painted. They are naturally dark colored because they absorb (rather than reflect) most of the light that strikes them. It is the absorbtion of light photons that powers the cells. If you painted a solar panel, it would not work because the photovoltaic cell would never 'see' the light. Solar water heating panels are black or painted black simply to absorb rather than reflect the light. Makes them more efficient. 2) Why are car radiators painted black? Corrosion protection and tradition. You paint a radiator to protect it from corrosion. Corrosion can damage the radiator and make it less efficient. Radiator paint is special. It has to be very thin so that it doesn't clog the radiator pores (preventing airflow). Black was chosen because paint manufactures could make a very thin coating which was corrosion resistant and would not flake off the radiator as it heated and cooled. Aluminum radiators don't need to be painted because they are naturally corrosion resistant. Note, although black is slightly better at dissapating heat, it is not a major factor in why radiators are painted black. .................................. Edit: If this is for a high school or below general science class (not a physics class). Just say that solar panels are dark to better absorb solar energy and radiators are black to better get rid of excess heat. Your teacher will probably think it is the right answer.

Answer 4

If the room is too dark try adding lighting before painting.

You can also add lighter decor or window treatments to brighten the room.

If you like the look of the paneling, consider leaving one wall unpainted as an accent wall, or paint one wall as the accent wall and leave the rest.

Experiment before you start painting because trying to undo painting can be very difficult.

Answer 5

I would paint it first, you will probably be surprised by the look and will really like it, if not then you can always take it down.

Answer 6

I would paint it a neutral color to give it a more up-to-date look.

Remember this: you need to primer it first, otherwise the paint won't adhere. (been there & done that).

Answer 7

take it down and paint