Dark wood paneling redecorated?

Question

My husband and I are moving into a house in November in Denver and the house is amazing...BUT it has DARK wood paneling that is awful. We are renting the place so painting is out of the question since we can't just undo it when we leave. Please, I need help! Any ideas?

Answer 1

Fabric ! held in place with liquid starch or firring strips nailed with brad at the ceiling level-then staple the fabric on-you can cover the fasteners with a braid or trim.

Answer 2

There is no cheap fix for this other than painting, the only other option would be to cover the walls with fabric, not cheap either but you can put the fabric up with liquid starch then wet and peel off before you move, however this is time consuming as you would also have to wash down the paneling. Same deal with wallpaper..

Answer 3

Panelling is cheap ,you can cover the dark with a lighter colour and remove it in time if you change your mind.
A proffesional painter can make anything look as if it is wood by painting and staining it then covering it with a clear coat.
I have done this,it works.
I have also turned wood paneling around and stained it a lighter colour before.Usually easy unless an adhesive has been used to attach the panneling.

Answer 4

First, check with the landlord and see if they will let you paint it a neutral color. I helped my mother do this in her house and it looked 100 times better. If not, you can try to hang material up with a staple gun. Choose a neutral and don't use many pleats. Restaurants sometimes use this trick. The only downfall with that is it can get pricey and you can't really wash it very well.

Answer 5

I like the idea of fabric, if you can't find large amounts cheap then you can always wait for a $5 sheet sale at JC Penny's. You could even cut tiny slits in the ends of the hems to allow them to be hung on curtain rods. When you move take them down wash them and donate them to a shelter or local charity.

Answer 6

Textured wallpaper. My wife and I put this over the paneling in our basement. It is heavy enough to cover the texture of the paneling, and then you can paint it what ever color you like.

You can purchase it at Home Depot/Lowes/any similar store.

Answer 7

I would consider putting all light pictures and window treatment, light bright colors, since you do not have the option of painting or removing, also lots of lights. and if you have the option light but is to care for floor covering.