How To

Some How-Tos from my own experiences

How To Paint Wood Paneling:

When we moved into our "Brady Bunch" house, things like painting the dark wood paneling seem like a simple, easy feat. But time goes by and before we know it we've stared at the dark and retro room for nearly two years. Finally when I had one weekend to myself I made up my mind to take care of it once and for all.

The first, most important step in painting the paneling is choosing the proper primer. To avoid sanding or scraping, and lots of unneccesary time and effort, you can choose from a variety of primers that will stick to even the slickest paneling. Two that I have had 100% success with are STIXs primer and Sherwin Williams Adhesion Primer.

Here are the few easy materials and steps needed to go from then to now in a weekend.

Materials:

• Sherwin Williams Adhesion Primer (1 Gal.)
• Sherwin Williams Paint (1 Gal. Greek Villa White)
• 1/2" Nap Cloth Roller
• 1/4" nap roller
• Paint trays
• Drop cloth
• Paint brush (to touch up or get between cracks)
• Tape (I prefer green "Frog Tape")

1. Step One: Preparation, Preparation, Preparation! Everyone hates doing it, but taking the time really makes it easier in the end. Tape off all the windows, and any other areas you dont want to get paint. Also lay proper drop cloths, and cover or remove any furniture.
2. Step Two: Clean! It's really part of the preparation but sometimes in our excitement we forget. Use a wet sponge or cloth to wipe the paneling and any dusty areas. Sometimes this includes the ceiling! There's nothing like getting a web in your brush or roller to mess up a nice job.
3. Step Three: To prepare your rollers for use, run a small stream of water down the rollers, then rub with your hand. This removes any lint or cloth pieces. Spin the roller to dry.
4. Step Four: Use a wooden stick to make sure the primer is stirred smooth. Apply the first layer using the thick cloth nap roller. Move slowly and you should be able to get between the cracks. If not, you may need a paintbrush to help.
5. Step Five:  After applying the first coat, let it dry completely. It may look dingy or dirty when dry, as the wood shows through. I did a second coat of primer before painting.
6. Step Six: After letting the primer dry for 12 hours, I applied a coat of white. After that coat dried, a second coat of white. See the before and after pictures below!

Other tips:

• The Primer and paint were used on the radiator covers as well!
• Since the floor is tile, it can be easily cleaned with paint thinner.
• Replace lighting and blinds to give a fresh look!