How to Get Rid of Knotty Pine Walls

Removal

• One way to get rid of knotty pine walls altogether is to remove them from your home. For removal you should have the essential tools and manpower to complete the project. Start by tearing a small amount of knotty pine away from the wall to learn what is behind the wall. If the wall behind the pine is in good condition and you wish to proceed, start to tear the paneling down. First remove all the trim and baseboards, if necessary. Gently use a crowbar to remove nails from the wall, allowing the knotty pine to be pulled away and exposing the drywall or studs. Recycle all materials.

Replacement

• After you get rid of the old knotty pine wall, you may wish to replace it with something new. You may have to replace it for several reasons, including water damage, rotting or staining. New knotty pine wood materials can be used to achieve a similar but more updated look. Another option for replacement is a different type of wood paneling. Paneling is a good option if your original wall was textured or flawed and will cover up any inconsistencies below the surface.

Faux Finishing

• Getting rid of the appearance of knotty pine can be done through faux finishing. Covering up the tongue and groove as well as any visible dark knots in the wood can be accomplished with a few tools. A sander, wood putty, putty knife and paint are needed to achieve a smooth finish. Lightly sand down the wood and wipe away all excess sawdust and debris. Fill in the grooves and edges with wood putty to make the surface smooth. Lightly sand the surface and allow it to dry completely. Cover with your choice of latex-based paint.

Wallpaper

• If you decide not to remove the knotty pine wall, another option is to cover it with wallpaper. Fill in the grooves with wood putty, dry and sand the surface. Making sure that the surface is clean and free of dust particles will help the wallpaper stick. You may want to use a wallpaper primer on the wood surface to ensure the wallpaper adheres well to the wood.