Removing Wood Paneling

Step 4 Sanding.
If you were cautious with the mud. Sanding should be brief. If you have a large room, consider renting a disc sander that has a vacuum attachment.

Step 5 Second coat of primer.
Because your first coat of primer was 3 days ago, you should now know if your walls are "bleeding". If you see yellow instead of white, you may need multiple coats of primer. In most cases, however, this second coat should seal the drywall mud, and you should be ready for interior paint.

Step 6 Interior paint.
At this time, take a minute to varify the walls are error free. Bend your head at weird angles, and use a flashlight along the wall to catch cracks and bumps. It's better to repair now than after the paint goes on. Light colors, as well as matte finishes, cover better. Glossy, or dark colors will bring out every flaw.

Look at the before and after photos of my most recent remodel. The new patio doors had a much stronger effect against finished walls.

People have asked why I spent so much time removing paneling from a home I intend to sell. Why would I do that, even if I intended to keep it? Now you don't have to either.

After

When looking for fixer homes, one of my favorite things is wood paneling. You might think I'm nuts for saying this, but it's such an eyesore that many people mark the price down several thousand dollars because of it. What a bargain!
Here's a trick for getting rid of wood paneling for less than $100.00.

Step 1 Primer.
I prefer Kilz because it is a primer sealer. Most people will tell you to wash the walls first. If there is a smoker in the house, I say definately. If the walls aren't bad, then why bother. I know the can says dry for 2 hours, trust me on this. Let dry 3 to 4 hours.

Step 2 Drywall mud.
All the grooves, nicks, and staple holes fill in by lightly smoothing a putty knife along the surface with mud. Let dry overnight.

Step 3 More drywall mud.
The first layer of mud will dry and the seams of the paneling will "sink" and need to be refilled. Again let set overnight.

Before

To see all six steps in another room
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