Authentic and natural wood wall panels add warmth and texture to any room but may need a refresh over time. Painting wood wall panels is a simple and cost-effective way to give your space a modern update without replacing the panels entirely. Whether you’re looking to cover old, dated wood or just want to introduce a new colour scheme, this beginner’s guide will walk you through the process of painting wood wall panels step-by-step.
Why Paint Wood Wall Panels?
Authentic and natural wood wall panels can be beautiful and functional but often lose their appeal over time. Whether it's outdated dark wood from a previous era or natural wood that no longer fits your décor, painting can breathe new life into your space. Here are some reasons why painting wood wall panels is a great idea:
Modernisation: Many wood panels feature dark finishes that can make a room feel outdated or cramped. Painting them in lighter colours can brighten your space and give it a modern look.
Cost-Effective: Replacing wood panels can be expensive. Painting is an affordable way to refresh your interior without tearing down walls or spending money on new materials.
Customisation: Painting allows you to choose colours that match your current décor and create a look that is uniquely yours.
What You’ll Need to Paint Wood Wall Panels
Before diving into the process, gather the necessary tools and materials. Having everything on hand will ensure the painting project runs smoothly.
Materials
Primer: A good-quality primer, such as Excelsior Pink or White Wood Primer (Solvent-Based Primers) or Excelsior Aqua Multi-Surface Prime (Water-Based Primer), will help the paint adhere to the wood panels and prevent stains from bleeding through.
Paint: Choose a high-quality interior paint in your desired colour and finish (matt, eggshell, gloss, etc.).
Wood filler: For filling any cracks, dents, or nail holes.
Sandpaper: To smooth the wood surface before painting.
Caulk: For filling gaps between the panels and trim or moulding.
Painter’s tape: To protect edges and trim.
Drop cloths: To protect your floors from drips and spills.
Tools
Paintbrushes: Use a brush for cutting in around trim and hard-to-reach areas.
Rollers: A roller will help you quickly cover large sections of the panelling.
Sanding block: This tool helps smooth the surface evenly.
Caulk gun: For applying caulk neatly along the seams.
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Wood Wall Panels
Now that you have your tools and materials ready let's get started with the actual wood wall painting process. These steps only apply to natural and authentic wood panels, not composite wood panelling.
Step 1: Prepare the Area
Begin by prepping the room. Move furniture away from the walls and cover the floor with drop cloths. Use painter’s tape to protect any areas you don’t want to paint, such as trim, baseboards, and windows.
Step 2: Clean the Wood Panels
Cleaning the wood panels is a crucial step before painting. Use a damp cloth or sponge to remove dust, dirt, and grime from the panels. If the walls are especially dirty, a mild detergent solution can be used to ensure they’re clean. Let the panels dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Fill Holes and Gaps
Inspect the wood panels for any cracks, holes, or imperfections. Use wood filler to patch up any dents or holes. If gaps exist between the panels or at the edges where the wall meets the ceiling, use caulk to fill those gaps. Let the wood filler and caulk dry before proceeding.
Step 4: Sand the Wood Panels
Lightly sand the wood panels to create a smooth surface to which the primer and paint can adhere. Use fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding block to remove any sheen from the wood and even out the surface. Sanding also helps to open the wood's pores, allowing the primer and paint to penetrate better. Once done, wipe away any dust with a clean, dry cloth. Ensure the surface is dust-free.
Step 5: Apply Primer
Applying a primer is an essential step when painting wood wall panels. Primer helps the paint adhere better and prevents stains or tannins from seeping through. Use a high-quality primer designed for wood surfaces. Start by cutting in around the edges of the panels with a brush, then use a roller to cover the larger areas. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 6: Paint the Panels
Once the primer is dry, it’s time to paint. Again, use a brush to cut in around the edges and trim. Then, use a roller to apply the paint in even strokes. Be sure to paint in the direction of the wood grain for a smoother finish. Depending on the type of paint and colour, you may need to apply two or more coats for full coverage. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next, and refer to packaging instructions for accurate drying times. However, please note drying times can vary due to temperature, weather, etc.
Step 7: Inspect and Touch Up
After the final coat of paint has dried, inspect the walls for any missed spots or uneven coverage. Touch up these areas with a brush or roller as needed. Carefully remove the painter’s tape from the edges and clean up any drips or spills.
Tips for Painting Wood Wall Panels
Choose the Right Paint Finish: A matt or eggshell finish works well for a subtle look, while gloss finishes add a bit of shine and are more durable for high-traffic areas.
Test a Small Area First: Before painting the entire wall, test your paint and primer on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure proper adhesion and finish.
Use Proper Ventilation: Always paint in a well-ventilated room to avoid inhaling fumes from the primer and paint.
Don’t Rush Between Coats: Patience is key. Allow each coat to fully dry before applying the next to achieve a smooth, even finish.
FAQs about Wood Wall Painting
Can I paint over wood panelling without sanding?
No, Surface preparation is critical. Any existing coatings must be removed to ensure proper adhesion and durability.
What kind of paint should I use on wood panelling?
To paint wood wall panelling, it’s best to use a latex-based interior paint. Depending on your preference, you can choose a matt, eggshell, or gloss finish. Sheen finishes are more durable and easier to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.
Do I need to use a primer before painting wood panels?
Yes, using a primer is essential. Primer helps the paint adhere to the wood panels, blocks stains and prevents tannins in the wood from bleeding through the paint. It also provides a more even surface for painting.
How many coats of paint should I apply to wood panelling?
To achieve full coverage, you will typically need two coats of paint. However, additional coats may be necessary for the best result.
Can I paint wood panelling white?
Yes, white is a popular colour choice for wood panelling. It brightens the room and gives it a clean, modern look. Be sure to use a primer and apply multiple coats of white paint for even coverage.
How long does it take to paint wood panelling?
The time it takes to paint wood panelling depends on the applicator, room size, the number of coats applied, and the drying time between coats.
Can I paint wood panelling without removing it?
Yes, you can paint wood wall panelling without removing it. The key is properly preparing the surface by cleaning, sanding, and priming the wood before applying paint.
Contact Excelsior Paint for Details
Painting wood wall panels is an excellent way to modernise a room and create a fresh, updated look. With the right preparation and materials, even beginners can confidently tackle this project. Whether you're going for a bold colour or a neutral palette, painting your wood panels is a budget-friendly way to revitalise your space.
Contact our team today for more information, or please continue to browse our website to find the paint solution for your needs or your nearest stockist.
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