How to remove Wood panelling in five easy steps 12 May 2022

Wood panelling was extremely popular from the 1950s right through to the 70s. It was cheap to fit and made a big impact in a room. But by the 1980s, wood panelling was out of style and many homeowners were left with rooms full of dark wood that felt dreary and out of date.

If you have wood panelling in your house that is looking a bit tired, you don't have to live with it as it is. One good way to give it a quick refresh is to use a good quality wood paint.

But if you're wanting it gone, to bring more modern wall panelling ideas to life perhaps, rest assured that it's pretty easy to get rid of.

If the wood panelling is not in good condition, it can make your home look like it hasn't been taken care of. If you are planning on selling your home, potential buyers may be turned off by wood panelling that is in poor condition or dated.

So how do you remove wood panelling? First, gather the right tools:-

  • Crowbar
  • Drop cloth
  • Drywall putty
  • Hammer
  • Heat gun (this is optional)

1. ENSURE YOU PROTECT YOUR FLOORS
Start by laying a drop cloth down to protect your flooring from any debris/dust.

2. THE Crowbar IS THE TOOL FOR THE JOB!
The best way to remove wood panelling is to use a crowbar. If you’re removing full sheets of panelling, you’ll want to start by removing any trim pieces at the top and bottom using the crowbar. Use a hammer to help the edge of the pry bar get in between the panel and the wall.
If the panelling only goes part way up the wall start by removing the trim pieces with the crowbar. Instead of starting at the bottom you will start at the top and gently pull use a hammer and crowbar to pull the panelling away from the wall.
Once the trim is removed you will want to start at the bottom of the panel and carefully work your way up, gently separating the panel from the sheetrock.

3. PATCH HOLES
Once you have removed the panels, use the correct fillers to patch any holes in wall and repair them.

4. GENTLY SAND
Gently sand down the patches you have filled in order to make good the area.

5. PRIME AND PAINT? OR CHOOSE NEW PANELLING?
Now depending on your new look your wall is ready for primer and paint or even a new type of wood cladding? and a fresh new clean look! Everything comes back round again and now it’s all about re-inventing!

So, for all timber requirements look no further than the team at Johnsons Timber Supplies Ltd. Call us today on 0121 706 0404 or email sales@johnsonstimber.co.uk.

Get in touch...

If you would like to get a quote or find out more about our timber products that we offer please get in touch with us through our contact form, by phone or by email - we will be more than happy to help you in whatever way we can.

Call us: 0121 706 0404

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