How to Finish a Wall Without Drywall

Measure the length of the wall between the corner strips. Cut furring strips to this length. You want enough strips to form rows across the length of the wall. Cut with a hand saw or circular saw.

Screw the furring strips to the stud frame so that they are horizontal to the floor. Make one row across the top of the wall, one along the bottom of the wall, and two across the middle, spaced evenly apart. Use a drill to insert the screws.

Measure the height of the wall again and subtract 1/4 inch from the amount. This is for expansion of the wood. If you are not dealing with wood paneling, you do not have to subtract the 1/4 inch. Transfer the measurement to the panel. If needed, cut the panel to match the height of the wall. Use a fine tooth blade on a circular saw to cut it.

Raise a piece of paneling to the wall and tack it in place at the top with finishing nails. Use a level to ensure it is straight along the sides before securing it to the top.

Nail the panels to each furring strip row, placing the nails along the sides and the bottom. If you have paneling that looks like wood planks, you can place nails in between the planks as well. Repeat with addition panels along the wall, but keep a space of 1/16 of an inch between the panels to allow for expansion.

Measure the distance out from the end of a panel to a point where there needs to be an opening, such as for an outlet. Measure up from the floor or down from the ceiling as well to get the exact placement. Take into consideration the 1/16 inch gap between the panels if necessary. Determine the dimensions of opening as well, and transfer the measurements to the new panel. Mark the opening on the panel and cut it out. Use a drill to make a hole in the middle of the opening, and then saw out the marked area with a jig saw.

Glue panel seam covers over the seams between the panels. Cut if necessary with your circular saw so that they fit the height of the wall.