Wooden wall panelling can be a great addition to any home. Whether you’re changing the aesthetic of your room or installing acoustic wood panels to improve the space’s sound quality, wall panelling is effective and affordable. But once you’ve chosen your panels, how do you install them?
Read on for our DIY guide and learn how to install wood panelling like a pro.
How to install wood panelling on walls
Wall panel installation might seem daunting at first, but with our step-by-step approach, you’ll have excellent results in no time. If you’ve ever tiled a wall before, there are some definite crossovers.
Let’s start with what you’ll need to install your wood panels. The adhesive you need may depend on the type of panelling you buy. However, as a general guide, you’re likely to need the following:
- Your panels
- Tape measure and pencil
- Nail gun
- Spirit level
- Construction adhesive
- Sandpaper
- Saw
Prepare your wall and panels
Before installing your panels, it’s important to make sure you have the wall in the condition you want. Remove any existing paint or wallpaper from the wall to give you a clean base to work on. If there are any cracks, holes or imperfections, fill these in and use your sandpaper to ensure you have a smooth surface.
Preparing your panels is just as important. Because humidity and temperature affect wood, it’s important to let your panels acclimate to the space they’ll be in. Leave your panels in the room of installation for a couple of days before putting them up.
If you’re painting your panels, do this after acclimating the wood but before installing the panelling so it has time to dry.
Install bottom panels
If your panelling includes narrow horizontal panels, these will need to go on before you install your vertical panels. To install this part of the wood panelling, line it up with the skirting boards and attach it to the wall either with glue or nails, depending on the type of panelling you have. Use your spirit level to make sure it’s lined up accurately.
Measure your vertical panels and spacing
Next, it’s time to plan your vertical panel alignment. Measure the width of your wall and mark where each panel will go with a pencil. You may need to cut your edge panels to fit. If you’re panelling around windows, doors or other features, you’ll need to carefully cut the panels to size and sand them accordingly.
Install the edge panels
Once your edge panels are the right size, you can attach them to the wall with your adhesive or nails.
Install the beading
If your panelling includes beading for the top of your wall, add that in line with your edge panels.
Install the vertical panels
You can now install your vertical wood panelling across the width of your wall, making sure each one lines up accurately. If you’re installing Shaker or Victorian-style panelling, you may also need to install horizontal panels. Your wall panelling should come with a pattern outline so you get the correct fit.
Tips for installing acoustic wood panelling
Like many DIY jobs, installing wood panelling takes patience and accuracy. It’s best to take your time and make sure every panel is carefully cut and measured. Here are some other hints and tips to help you get the best results from your wood panelling.
- Before anything else, make sure you have the type of panelling you need. As well as making sure it’s a style and pattern you like, consider factors such as the wood species, thickness, finish, and installation method (e.g. adhesive or nails).
- Any time you measure or cut, take a second measurement! Double-checking can help avoid inaccuracies later on.
- If you’re using adhesive, make sure you spread it evenly over the panels before sticking.
- You want to follow your measurements and pencil guidelines. However, it’s also important to make sure the panels fit snugly together. Check there aren’t any gaps between them.
- After installing your panels, trim any excess or overhanging edges. You can do this with a coping saw or a mitre saw to achieve clean and precise cuts. Then sand the edges and surfaces of the panels to create a smooth finish.
- Consider applying a protective finish, like a clear sealant, stain, or paint, to improve the durability of your wood panelling.
Wall panelling from A Wood Idea
From bold feature walls to statement staircases, wood panelling can give your home a complete makeover — and improve your room’s acoustics. Now you know how to install acoustic wood panels, why not explore our collection of stylish panelling? Whether you’re looking for elegant walnut or chic grey, we have a range of durable, high-quality wall panels. Take a look at our wood panelling range today.
