Knowing the Best Ways to Cover Wood Panelling

Old wood paneling was once a popular choice in homes, especially during the mid-20th century. It gave rooms a cozy, natural feel, but as design trends shifted, many homeowners now find themselves wanting to update these dated interiors.

Knowing how to cover wood panelling effectively can instantly modernize a space without the need for costly demolition. Whether you want a smooth surface or more texture, there are various ways to achieve a fresh, new look.

From decorative wall panelling to painting and acoustic options, here's how to revitalize your home’s wood-paneled walls with ease.

Painting the Wood Panelling

One of the quickest and most affordable solutions to cover wood panelling is painting it. With the right prep work, paint can transform those dark, outdated panels into something sleek and modern.

First, you'll need to clean the wood thoroughly and fill any gaps or cracks. Applying a high-quality primer is essential to ensure the paint adheres properly to the wood. For more details, check out this helpful external guide on painting wood panelling.

Painting not only hides the grain of the wood but also offers endless options for color. Whether you choose a soft neutral or a bold hue, paint allows you to create a fresh and cohesive look that complements your existing decor.

Paintable Flutted Wall Panels

Another excellent option for those looking to add texture is paintable slatted wall panels. These panels feature narrow slats that create a subtle, streamlined appearance.

Unlike just painting the wood, decorative wall panelling like this can significantly alter the feel of a room, adding depth and interest.

The slatted wall panels can be customized to fit any color scheme once painted, making them versatile enough for any style. They're also a durable choice, perfect for high-traffic areas where you want something that lasts longer than a coat of paint.

Acoustic Wall Panels

For a solution that goes beyond aesthetics, acoustic wall panels not only cover wood panelling but also improve the room's acoustics by dampening sound. This type of paneling is perfect for spaces like home theaters, bedrooms, or offices where noise reduction is a priority.

Acoustic panels are available in various materials, such as fabric-wrapped designs and wood-finished options. These panels are easy to install and provide a practical yet stylish way to modernize old wood paneling.

Ribbed and Fluted Painted MDF Panels

For those looking for a more sophisticated option, ribbed and fluted painted MDF panels offer an elegant touch. The vertical grooves in this decorative wall panelling style create a refined look that enhances the room’s dimensions. When painted, these panels provide both texture and sleekness, turning a dull wall into a statement feature.

The ribbed design draws the eye upward, making your space appear taller and more spacious. This style of cover wood panelling adds depth and visual interest, whether in a living room, dining room, or bedroom.

Painted Shiplap Wall Panels

Shiplap has become a favorite for adding a touch of rustic charm to modern spaces. By installing painted shiplap panels over your old wood, you can quickly update the look of a room. Once painted, shiplap offers a smooth, uniform appearance that’s both clean and modern.

Shiplap works well in various spaces, from living rooms to kitchens, and its simple, horizontal lines make the room feel larger. With just a coat of paint, shiplap can turn your old paneling into something fresh and inviting.

Painted Board and Batten Wall Paneling

Board and batten paneling is another versatile option for covering wood. This style consists of vertical boards with narrower strips (battens) covering the seams, creating a layered, architectural effect. It’s a great way to add both structure and interest to a room without major renovations.

Once painted, board and batten offers a high-end, polished appearance that instantly updates outdated wood paneling. This style of decorative wall panelling is perfect for giving rooms a more structured, elegant feel.

Paintable Wall Moulding

If you want to add a touch of formality to your space, consider paintable wall moulding. Moulding allows you to create a custom, intricate design on your walls while effectively covering wood panelling. From ornate styles to minimalistic options, moulding adds texture and depth.

Painting wall moulding ensures it fits seamlessly with your existing color scheme, making it a stylish and elegant way to upgrade your walls. This is an ideal choice for those looking for a timeless, sophisticated look.

Paintable Geometric Wall Paneling

For a bold, modern statement, geometric wall paneling is an excellent option. This type of decorative wall panelling allows you to create eye-catching patterns like triangles, hexagons, or squares, adding visual interest to any room.

Geometric paneling is not just about aesthetics—it’s also practical for covering wood panelling that may have imperfections. With a coat of paint, this paneling creates a striking feature wall that brings an artistic touch to your space.

Beadboard Wall Paneling

Beadboard paneling has been around for decades and remains popular due to its timeless appeal.

The narrow planks with raised “beads” are perfect for adding a cozy, charming feel to spaces like bathrooms or kitchens. Beadboard is another effective way to cover wood panelling while bringing a classic look to your home.

Beadboard works especially well in traditional or cottage-style homes, and painting it can make it even more versatile. Whether you go for a soft white or a more vibrant shade, beadboard provides both texture and personality.

Additional Ways to Cover Wood Panelling

Wallpaper Over Wood Paneling

For an immediate transformation, wallpaper is a great choice. It allows you to cover the entire surface of your wood panels with a wide variety of patterns and designs. Modern wallpaper is easy to apply and provides a significant style upgrade without needing to remove the old wood.

To ensure a smooth application, fill any gaps between panels and sand the surface before applying the wallpaper.

Textured Wall Panels

Textured wall panels are ideal for those who want to add dimension to a room while also covering wood panelling. These panels come in a variety of designs and can be painted to suit any decor, making them highly versatile.

Whether you choose subtle textures or bold, 3D designs, textured panels offer a durable, long-lasting solution to upgrade your walls.

Peel-and-Stick Vinyl Panels

Peel-and-stick vinyl panels are an easy-to-install option for covering wood panelling without the hassle of heavy tools or renovations. These panels come in various finishes like wood, stone, or tile and can quickly change the look of a room.

They are particularly useful in areas that see a lot of moisture, like kitchens or bathrooms, as they are moisture-resistant and easy to clean.

Conclusion

Updating old wood paneling doesn’t have to involve tearing down walls. Whether you choose to paint, install decorative wall panelling, or add acoustic panels, there are plenty of ways to modernize your space.

From geometric designs to classic shiplap and beadboard, each option offers a unique way to refresh your room's appearance. With the right approach, you can cover wood panelling and bring your home into the modern era, all while adding your personal touch to the design.