DIY Wood Wall Panels: A Step-By-Step Installation Guide

Wood wall paneling, also known as ‘wainscoting,’ not only provides improved insulation, but is also an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to make your home aesthetically pleasing and more valuable for potential buyers. 

If you are one of those impressed by modern wood wall panels, we’ll dive into a step-by-step guide on installing them.

What Tools Are Needed to Install Wood Wall Panels?

Before you can install wood panels, you’ll need the following:

• Wooden panels 
• Panel adhesive, PVA glue, or liquid nails
• Nail gun
• Spirit level 
• Tape measure
• Paper and pencil
• Sandpaper or an electric sander
• Hand saw
• Wood filler
• Paint and wall primer

Steps for Installing Wood Wall Panels

1. Plan a Layout

   First, you’ll want to create an elaborate layout of what the wall should look like once you are done. You can take inspiration from Pinterest or translate your own ideas onto a paper through a detailed drawing that will act as your guide. 

2. Prepare the Wall

   For a professional application, it’s important to prep your wall first. Start by carefully removing the baseboard on your wall ensuring that it is completely smooth. This can be done using a sandpaper or an electric sander. 

3. Take Measurements

   This is the most crucial step. You want to channel your patience and precision to make accurate measurements because the success of your paneling project relies on this step. Use a tape measure to determine the dimensions of the wall and then determine the size and quantity of panels you will need. 

   Try placing the panels on the wall starting from the center to ensure symmetry and estimate how many will fit. Make sure to account for top and base panels, which will constitute your frame. 

   Using a spirit level and creating wall markings can help you be precise in this step. You also need to take any switch boards into consideration while taking measurements and cutting the panels.

4. Cut the Panels 

   Using measurements in the previous step, carefully cut out wooden panels using a hand saw. You can use a sander to make sure the ends are completely smooth.

5. Install the Panels

   Now, it’s time to place the panels on the wall to evaluate how they fit and look. You can use a removable adhesive to place and adjust the panels before permanently placing them. 

   After ensuring that they fit, install the panels using a panel adhesive and secure them into place with a nail gun. Every panel should perfectly align with the others. 

   It’s also a good idea to start with the frame, placing the panels at the bottom and top of the wall first. The vertical panels will be placed first, followed by the horizontal ones; if you removed baseboards in the beginning, this is the time to reinstall them.

6. Give the Finishing Touches

   Before calling it a day, you should go over your work to identify any shortcomings or gaps that you might have missed. 

   If you find any, there is no need to worry–you can use a wood filler and sander to make everything look seamless. If there are still any imperfections left, they can be easily concealed with paint. 

7. Prime and Paint Your Newly Paneled Wall

Once the adhesive and filler have completely dried, it's time to paint the wall, if you wish. When it comes to painting wood wall panels, you should use a wood primer to create a flawless look. After two coats of a primer, the wall will become the perfect foundation for paint application. 

Final Thoughts

Now that you have a good idea of how to DIY your wood wall panel installation, you’re ready to go! Of course, for the best wood wall panels that are sure to give your home that aesthetic you’re going for, 27EStore has you covered. Check out our selection of high-quality wood wall panels today!