How To Update Wood Paneling To Make It Look Like A Regular Painted Wall

When you buy an older home, the historical details can sometimes be a welcome feature, such as original hardwood floors and stunning millwork. On the other hand, certain historical elements can make a space feel dated and drab. Case in point? Wood paneling. Consisting of large, thin sheets of solid wood or veneer, wood paneling enjoyed its heyday in the 1970s when designers clad entire walls with it to create warmth and texture. Though wood paneling has started to come back in style, it can make a space feel heavy and closed-in for the modern homeowner seeking to create a light and airy vibe. While removing the panels is an option for modernizing the design, there is actually an easier DIY solution that doesn't involve any demo — filling in the cracks and painting over the walls.

Not only will this method save you from the mess and stress of ripping out the panels and patching the walls, but it also takes much less time and only requires a handful of supplies. The trick is to fill in the grooves between the panels to create a level surface. Once the entire surface has been smoothed, it can be painted and will look just like regular drywall. No one will ever know there is wood paneling lurking beneath the freshly painted surface, and your space will instantly feel more modern and bright. 

Start by cleaning the wood paneling with a degreasing agent, such as TSP. Then, using a putty knife, apply spackling compound or drywall mud into the grooves of the wood paneling, smoothing it out as you go to create a level surface. Let it dry, sand it smooth, and wipe or vacuum the dust (wear a mask). Apply a second coat of spackle or mud, if needed. Next, prime the paneling with a stain-blocking primer — this is especially important if your wood paneling has any visible wood knots. Once the primer is dry, apply at least two coats of paint in your desired color.

Want to take your new "drywall" to the next level? Since many wood-paneled walls often don't have crown molding along the top, you could add this feature to make it look more like a regular wall. If you like the look of wainscoting or beadboard, leave the wood paneling in the lower third of your wall intact and only fill in the grooves of the top two thirds. Then, attach a piece of chair rail molding where the two areas meet to create an aesthetic transition. Paint the two areas the same color, or paint them in coordinating colors to make the paneling stand out. Don't want the hassle of sawing or nailing the molding? Simply use peel and stick versions of crown molding and chair rail molding instead.