13 Ways To Cover Wood Paneling Without Removing It

Hey there, DIY enthusiasts! Are you stuck with outdated wood paneling that's cramping your style? Don't worry, you're not alone! Many of us have inherited homes with this retro feature, and the thought of tearing it all down can be daunting. But guess what? You don't have to! There are tons of creative and budget-friendly ways to hide or cover wood paneling without removing it. Let's dive into 13 awesome solutions to transform your space.

1. The Magic of Paint: A Fresh Start for Your Walls

If you're looking for a relatively simple and cost-effective way to update your wood paneling, painting is your best bet. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders to brighten up a room and completely change the look and feel. But before you grab your brushes, there are a few crucial steps to ensure a flawless finish. First off, prep work is key. Start by thoroughly cleaning the paneling to remove any dirt, grime, or old wax buildup. A degreaser or TSP (trisodium phosphate) cleaner works wonders for this. Next, give the paneling a light sanding to create a slightly rough surface – this helps the primer and paint adhere properly. Don't skip this step, guys; it's essential for a long-lasting finish!

Once your paneling is clean and sanded, it's time for primer. Using a high-quality primer designed for wood is crucial. Primer seals the wood, prevents tannins from bleeding through the paint, and creates a smooth, even surface for your topcoat. Apply one or two coats of primer, allowing it to dry completely between coats. Now comes the fun part: choosing your paint color! Lighter colors are generally recommended for paneling as they reflect light and make the room feel more spacious. However, don't be afraid to experiment with bold colors or even a trendy two-toned look. When applying the paint, use a combination of brushes and rollers to achieve a smooth, even finish. For the grooves in the paneling, a brush is your best friend. For the flat surfaces, a roller will give you a professional-looking result. Apply two coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. And there you have it! A fresh, new look for your walls without the hassle of demolition.

2. Wallpaper: A Stylish Disguise

Wallpaper is another fantastic option for covering wood paneling, offering a wide array of patterns, textures, and colors to suit your style. Whether you're into bold geometric prints, delicate florals, or textured designs, wallpaper can instantly transform your space. But just like with painting, proper preparation is essential for a smooth and lasting application. The key to successful wallpapering over paneling is to create a smooth, even surface. The grooves in the paneling can show through the wallpaper if you don't address them properly. This is where filler comes in handy. Use a wood filler or joint compound to fill in the grooves, creating a flat surface for the wallpaper to adhere to. Once the filler is dry, sand it down to create a smooth transition between the panels.

After filling and sanding, it's time to prime. Apply a wallpaper primer to the paneling to ensure the wallpaper adheres properly and to prevent the adhesive from soaking into the wood. Once the primer is dry, you're ready to hang the wallpaper. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, as different types of wallpaper require different adhesives and techniques. Use a smoothing tool to remove any air bubbles and ensure the wallpaper is firmly attached to the wall. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can achieve a stunning wallpapered finish that completely disguises your wood paneling. Don't be afraid to get creative with your wallpaper choices – this is your chance to add personality and style to your space!

3. Fabric Panels: Softness and Texture

For a more unique and textured look, consider using fabric panels to cover your wood paneling. This method adds softness and warmth to a room, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Fabric panels can be created in various ways, from stretching fabric over frames to using liquid starch to adhere the fabric directly to the wall. One popular method involves creating wooden frames that fit snugly within the panels of the wood paneling. Stretch your chosen fabric over these frames, securing it with staples or tacks on the back. Then, simply attach the framed fabric panels to the wall using construction adhesive or small nails. This method allows you to easily remove the fabric panels if you want to change the look later on.

Another option is to use liquid starch to adhere the fabric directly to the paneling. This is a less permanent solution, as the fabric can be removed by simply peeling it off the wall. However, it's important to test a small area first to ensure the starch doesn't damage the paneling. When choosing fabrics, consider the overall style and color scheme of your room. Bold patterns and textures can create a dramatic effect, while softer fabrics in neutral colors can create a more calming and serene atmosphere. Fabric panels are a fantastic way to add personality and warmth to your space while effectively hiding that outdated wood paneling.

4. Faux Brick or Stone: Rustic Charm

Adding faux brick or stone veneer is an excellent way to completely transform the look of your walls, giving your room a rustic and charming feel. These materials are typically lightweight and easy to install, making them a great DIY project. There are various types of faux brick and stone available, from individual pieces that are adhered to the wall to panels that cover larger areas. Before installing faux brick or stone, it's important to ensure your paneling is clean, dry, and structurally sound. You may need to fill in any gaps or cracks in the paneling to create a smooth surface for the veneer to adhere to. Use a strong construction adhesive to attach the faux brick or stone to the paneling, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

When installing individual pieces, use spacers to ensure consistent spacing between the bricks or stones. This will give your wall a more professional and polished look. Once the adhesive is dry, you can add grout between the pieces to further enhance the realistic look of the brick or stone. Faux brick and stone are a fantastic option for creating a feature wall or adding character to an entire room. They can instantly transform a dated space into a cozy and stylish retreat.

5. Beadboard: Classic and Timeless

Beadboard is a classic and timeless option for covering wood paneling, adding texture and visual interest to your walls. It consists of narrow vertical planks with a decorative groove (or bead) running along the center. Beadboard can be installed as individual planks or in larger panels, making it a versatile choice for various spaces. Before installing beadboard, you'll need to prepare your paneling by cleaning it thoroughly and filling in any gaps or imperfections. If your paneling has deep grooves, you may want to apply a layer of plywood or hardboard over it to create a smooth surface for the beadboard to adhere to.

Attach the beadboard to the paneling using construction adhesive and nails. Ensure the beadboard is level and properly aligned as you install it. Once the beadboard is in place, you can caulk the seams and nail holes for a seamless finish. Finally, paint the beadboard to match your desired color scheme. Beadboard is a fantastic way to add a touch of classic elegance to your home while effectively covering up outdated wood paneling. It's a great option for bathrooms, kitchens, and living rooms alike.

6. Drywall: A Smooth Canvas

If you're aiming for a perfectly smooth and seamless look, installing drywall over your wood paneling is an excellent option. While this method requires a bit more effort and skill, it provides a blank canvas for painting, wallpapering, or any other decorative finish you desire. Before installing drywall, inspect your paneling to ensure it's securely attached to the studs. If there are any loose panels, reattach them with screws. You may also need to add shims to the studs to create a level surface for the drywall.

Attach the drywall panels to the paneling using drywall screws. Make sure the screws penetrate the studs for a secure hold. Once the drywall is installed, tape and mud the seams and screw holes to create a smooth, seamless surface. Sand the mudded areas smooth and apply a coat of primer before painting or wallpapering. Installing drywall over wood paneling is a great way to achieve a modern and polished look. It's a more involved process, but the results are well worth the effort.

7. Board and Batten: Rustic Elegance

Board and batten is a decorative wall treatment that adds a touch of rustic elegance to any space. It consists of wide vertical boards (the boards) with narrower strips of wood (the battens) attached over the seams. This creates a visually appealing textured look that can completely transform your walls. To install board and batten over wood paneling, start by attaching the vertical boards to the wall using construction adhesive and nails. Space the boards evenly apart, typically 12 to 16 inches. Then, attach the battens over the seams between the boards, also using construction adhesive and nails.

Ensure the battens are aligned properly and create a consistent pattern. You can also add a horizontal board at the top of the wall to create a wainscoting effect. Once the board and batten is installed, caulk the seams and nail holes for a seamless finish. Finally, paint the board and batten to match your desired color scheme. Board and batten is a fantastic way to add architectural interest and character to your home while effectively covering up wood paneling. It's a great option for entryways, dining rooms, and living rooms.

8. Mirrors: Create the Illusion of Space

Strategically placed mirrors can work wonders to disguise wood paneling and create the illusion of more space and light. Large mirrors can cover entire sections of paneling, while smaller mirrors can be used to break up the monotony of the wood. Consider hanging a large mirror on a focal wall to instantly transform the room. You can also use multiple smaller mirrors to create a gallery wall effect, adding visual interest and disguising the paneling in the process.

When hanging mirrors over wood paneling, make sure to use appropriate hardware that can support the weight of the mirror. You may need to use anchors or screws that go directly into the studs. Mirrors are a fantastic way to enhance the aesthetics of your space while effectively hiding that outdated wood paneling. They're a versatile and stylish solution for any room.

9. Shelving Units: Functional and Stylish

Shelving units are not only functional for storage and display, but they can also be used to effectively cover up wood paneling. Large bookshelves or entertainment centers can cover entire walls, completely hiding the paneling behind them. Smaller shelves can be strategically placed to break up the lines of the paneling and add visual interest to the room.

When choosing shelving units, consider the size and style of your room. Tall bookshelves can create a dramatic effect, while floating shelves can add a modern touch. Arrange your books, decorative items, and plants on the shelves to create a personalized and stylish display. Shelving units are a practical and attractive solution for covering up wood paneling while adding storage and style to your space.

10. Artwork and Tapestries: A Creative Cover-Up

Hanging artwork and tapestries is a simple and effective way to disguise wood paneling and add personality to your walls. Large pieces of artwork can cover significant portions of the paneling, while smaller pieces can be arranged in a gallery wall to create visual interest. Tapestries are another great option for adding texture and color to your walls while effectively hiding the paneling behind them.

When choosing artwork and tapestries, consider the style and color scheme of your room. Bold and vibrant pieces can create a focal point, while softer and more muted pieces can create a calming atmosphere. Experiment with different arrangements and groupings to find a look that you love. Artwork and tapestries are a creative and versatile solution for covering up wood paneling and adding your personal touch to your space.

11. Curtains and Drapes: Soft and Elegant

Floor-to-ceiling curtains and drapes can add a touch of elegance and softness to a room while effectively covering up wood paneling. Hang curtains that extend from the ceiling to the floor to create the illusion of taller walls and a more spacious room. Choose fabrics and colors that complement your existing decor and create the desired mood.

When hanging curtains over wood paneling, make sure to use sturdy curtain rods and hardware that can support the weight of the fabric. You may need to use anchors or screws that go directly into the studs. Curtains and drapes are a versatile and stylish solution for covering up wood paneling and adding warmth and texture to your space.

12. Plants: A Natural Touch

Bringing plants into your home is a fantastic way to add a touch of nature and freshness to your space while also disguising wood paneling. Tall plants can be strategically placed in front of the paneling to cover it up, while smaller plants can be arranged on shelves or windowsills to break up the lines of the wood.

Choose plants that thrive in the lighting conditions of your room. Low-light plants like snake plants and ZZ plants are great options for rooms with limited natural light. Plants are a natural and beautiful way to enhance the aesthetics of your space while effectively hiding that outdated wood paneling.

13. Embrace It!: The Retro Vibe

Okay, guys, hear me out! Sometimes, the best way to deal with wood paneling is to embrace it! If your paneling is in good condition and you're feeling adventurous, consider incorporating it into your design scheme. Lean into the retro vibe by pairing it with mid-century modern furniture and decor. You can also update the look by painting the paneling a trendy color or adding pops of color with accessories and artwork.

Wood paneling can actually add warmth and character to a room if styled correctly. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and make it work for your space. Embracing the paneling is a unique and budget-friendly way to create a stylish and personalized home.

So there you have it – 13 awesome ways to hide or cover wood paneling without removing it! Whether you choose to paint, wallpaper, add fabric panels, or embrace the retro vibe, there's a solution that's perfect for your style and budget. Get creative, have fun, and transform your space into a home you love!