How to Redo a Room With Brown Paneling

Sand all of the paneling. Wood paneling typically has a clear coat over it to protect the wood. This will need to be removed in order for the paint to adhere properly. Use a medium grade sandpaper and sand all the panels by hand or use an electric sander on the lowest setting to remove the clear coat. If the paneling is made of pressed wood rather than actual wood, do not use an electric sander. The sheet will not be thick enough. Wipe the paneling down with a damp cloth and allow it to dry completely before proceeding.

Fill in the grooves with drywall mud. This will help create a level surface for your paint and help hide the paneling. Use a trowel and apply a thin layer of drywall mud in all of the grooves of the paneling. Cover over any visible knots in the wood with this material as well. Allow it time to draw, typically two to four hours.

Sand the paneling again. To have a completely flat surface for your paint, sand over the drywall mud. Do this by hand and frequently check to make sure that the former grooves are still flush with the rest of the paneling. The entire surface should be smooth to the touch when you are done. Wipe down the walls again with a damp cloth to remove any dust and residue.

Prime over the paneling. Use a water based primer to help cover up the grain of the wood and keep it from showing through your paint. Allow the primer six to eight hours to dry before applying your first coat of paint.

Paint over the paneling. Use a latex indoor paint in your preference, either flat, matte, semi-gloss or full gloss. In rooms with little natural light, a semi- or full gloss paint will help refract more light in the room. In rooms with a lot of natural light, flat or matte finishes will work well. Apply one coat and allow it to dry for six to eight hours. Examine the walls to see if a second coat is necessary.