Is your home donned with wood paneling on the walls? This type of wall covering can make your space feel dark, dated, and dragged down. While this trend is a thing of the past, wood paneling doesn’t have to feel stuck in the ‘70s. So how do you make wood paneling feel fresh and modern? Many homeowners feel overwhelmed by the idea of painting wood paneling. They wonder, “can I just paint over wood paneling? Will it look good or unnatural?”
The good news? Yes, you absolutely can paint wood paneling, and it can completely transform the look and feel of your space. With the right prep work, materials, and techniques, even beginners can achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish that makes your space feel brighter, cleaner, and more modern!
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to paint wood paneling the right way so your new finish lasts for years. Plus, we’re sharing the best primer for wood paneling, our top paint product recommendations for the job, and a few mistakes to avoid.
In This Post
To Paint or Not to Paint Wood Paneling?
Painting wood paneling can instantly refresh a space, but it’s not always the right choice for every type of paneling.
When Painting Paneling Makes Sense
If you have 1970s-style veneer paneling (thin wood-looking sheets), paint is a great way to make the room feel brighter, bigger, and more modern. It’s also a smart solution for covering scratches, stains, or mismatched finishes.
When You May Want to Pause
If your paneling is solid wood, think carefully before painting over it. Once painted, the natural grain is permanently hidden, and undoing it is nearly impossible. Solid wood also expands and contracts with humidity, which can lead to small cracks in the paint over time.
A Quick Safety Note
If your paneling was painted before 1980, do not sand it until it’s tested for lead. If lead is present, skip sanding and use a high-quality bonding primer instead to ensure the paint will adhere properly.
What You’ll Need to Paint Wood Paneling
Before you break out the paint roller, make sure you have the right supplies on hand.
Here’s your tools and materials checklist for painting wood paneling:
- Degreaser or mild cleaner (like TSP or Krud Kutter)
- Sandpaper (150–220 grit)
- High-quality oil-based primer
- Interior latex or acrylic paint
- Brushes, rollers, or paint sprayer
- Painter’s tape (or Frog Tape) and drop cloths
- Optional: Wood filler or caulk (for grooves or gaps)
How to Paint Wood Paneling: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Clean the Surface Thoroughly
Before you get out your paint products and materials, it’s important to clean the wood paneling thoroughly, whether it’s painted or unpainted. Please don’t skip or rush this step, as it can make or break your results! Years of dust, fingerprints, and household residue can keep primer and paint from adhering properly.
To clean, use a degreaser or mild cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge. Focus especially on grooves in the paneling and trim, as this is where dirt and grime tends to build up.
Even if the paneling looks clean, always wipe it down before sanding and priming.
Step 2: Lightly Sand the Panels
Sanding wood paneling helps dull any existing gloss and gives the primer something to grip. Use 150–220 grit sandpaper and gently scuff the surface. Keep in mind, you’re not trying to strip the finish, just rough it up enough for better adhesion.
If your paneling is already painted and in good condition, a light sanding is still helpful so the fresh coat sticks properly.
Step 3: Fill Grooves (Optional)
This step is optional and depends on the look you’re going for with your wood paneling. Most people leave the grooves to maintain the character of the paneling, especially if you want a unique, textured or cottage-style finish.
However, if you prefer a smooth, drywall-like look, fill the grooves with wood filler. Apply it in thin layers, allow it to dry, then sand it down flush with the surface.
Step 4: Apply Primer
Applying primer is key to long-lasting painted paneling. It seals the wood, improves paint adhesion, and prevents stains or old finishes from bleeding through.
Here’s what type of primer we recommend for different types of wood paneling:
- For new/unfinished wood paneling: Use a water-based interior wood primer.
- For older, glossy, or clear-coated paneling: Use an oil-based primer to bond properly with the slick surface. (Most older paneling has an oil-based polyurethane topcoat, so an oil-based primer is your best option).
One coat of primer is typically enough on wood paneling. Allow it to dry completely, between 4-6 hours, but make sure to follow the label on your specific product.
Step 5: Paint the Paneling
Once the primer is dry, it’s time to paint. Use a brush to cut in around edges and corners, then roll or spray the rest of the surface for even coverage.
Apply two thin coats of paint rather than one thick one to ensure you get even coverage without drips, splatters, or brush marks. Let each coat dry completely in between (again, checking your specific product for dry times and cure times).
Best Paints for Wood Paneling
When choosing paint products for your wood paneling, look for an interior latex paint with a satin or semi-gloss finish. These finishes are durable, easy to clean, and offer a soft sheen and great coverage.
Here are some great options:
- Benjamin Moore Advance
- Benjamin Moore Command
- Sherwin-Williams ProClassic
- Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane
Choosing the Right Paint Color for Paneling
Alongside choosing the best paint products for wood paneling, it’s also key to choose the right paint color to make it stand out and transform the room.
When painting wood paneling, opt for:
- Light tones to open up dark spaces, brighten the room, and make it feel larger.
- Earthy colors for a cozy, rustic feel.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Painting Wood Paneling
As with any paint project, there are a few common mistakes DIYers make that can be avoided with the right knowledge and know-how:
- Skipping the cleaning step: Painting over dust and grease can ruin your finish.
- Not sanding glossy surfaces: Even a quick scuff makes a huge difference when it comes to adhesion.
- Skipping primer: Primer is a must, especially on slick or clear-coated surfaces.
- Rushing dry time: Always let coats fully dry to avoid peeling or bubbling.
- Using the wrong sheen/finish: Flat finishes can look dull and show scuffs easily. Stick with satin or semi-gloss for the best results.
Painting Wood Paneling FAQs
Can you paint wood paneling without sanding?
You can, but it’s best to scuff sand. If you use a high quality primer, you may be able to get away without sanding, but it is best practice to scuff sand.
What type of paint is best for wood paneling?
High-quality trim paints like Sherwin-Williams ProClassic, Emerald Urethane, or Benjamin Moore Advance or Command are ideal. They’re durable, smooth, and easty to clean.
How long does painted paneling last?
With proper prep, painted paneling can last for years until you’re ready to change the color or refresh the space with a new coat.
Looking for Painted Paneling Without the Hassle?
Painting wood paneling is one of the easiest ways to bring a dark and dated space back to life, without ripping out the old paneling. With a few supplies, a weekend of effort, and the right prep, you can transform old walls into bright, beautiful ones that you’re proud of.
If you’re looking for painted paneling without the hassle, our team of professionals can help. We’d love to bring your paneling back to life and give it a fresh, modern look.
Visit our contact page to book a free estimate today!
