How to Install Paneling on Masonry Walls

Place marks along the base of an interior masonry wall, beginning 1-inch from the one end of the wall and spaced every 16-inches extending to the other end of the wall using a piece of chalk, for the placement of wall studs. Use a tape measure to measure the distances required for each mark.

Measure the masonry wall’s length using the tape measure, and then cut a 2-by-4-inch plank to the measurement using a circular saw. If you require multiple boards, cut them so they match the length when placed end to end with no space between them.

Drill a hole through the boards matching the marks on the wall using an electric drill. Place the first hole 1 inch from the starting end of the board, and each subsequent hole every 16 inches thereafter. Drill through the 4-inch side so the plank extends 2 inches from the surface of the wall. Stagger the drilled holes along the plank’s length, creating a zigzag pattern to maintain strength through the plank. Use a bit the same size as the masonry anchors you’re using for the boards.

Place the board along the base of the wall, positioned 1/4 inch from the floor. Check that the board is level by putting a carpenter’s level on it and making any needed adjustments. Drill through the holes in the board and into the masonry wall with a hammer drill and masonry bit, the same size as drill bit used to go drill through the boards. Drill to a depth that’s sufficient to place the anchors into the bricks so that they’re flush with the brick surface. Use a shop vac to clear the holes of dust.

Drive a masonry anchor into each hole with a hammer, and screw the boards into place against the base of the wall with masonry screws, using the electric drill with a screw bit attached.

Use the same mounting process to place a 2-by-4-inch plank along the top of the wall, leaving the same 1/4-inch gap between board and ceiling surface.

Use the tape measure to measure the height of the wall between the top and bottom boards. Cut 2-by-2-inch boards for wall studs, using the measured height, creating a board for each chalked mark.

Mount the studs at each marked position between the top and bottom planks. Use the same drilling and installation process you used for the other plank placement.

Cut the paneling you wish to install to fit the full height of the wall, as measured from floor to ceiling. Make sure the end of the panel meets with the adjacent panel at the center of a wall stud. If the panels are placed on a spot with a window or door, then make cutouts in the panel to match the measured locations of the openings before board placement.