How to Update the Paneling on One Wall Behind a Fireplace

Clean the wood paneling with a mixture of 1 tbsp. liquid dish soap and 1/2 gallon warm water. Wet a rag with the mixture and wipe down the walls to remove any grime or dust. Add 1 tbsp. salt to the mixture to remove any soot from the walls.

Allow the walls to dry completely before filling in any nails holes with spackling compound. Allow the spackling compound to dry completely before sanding it with fine-grit sandpaper until it is flush with the surrounding walls.

Cover the wood paneling with a layer of primer. Use a roller on the main surface of the walls and a smaller paintbrush for any finishing work. Apply a primer tinted to match the final paint color on dark wood paneling.

Allow the primer to dry completely or at least two to three hours before applying the first coat of paint. Once again, use a paint roller for the main surface and a smaller paintbrush for the edging.

Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely before applying a second and third coat. A third coat might be necessary to cover darker wood paneling.

Allow the final coat of paint to dry and set for at least 12 hours before decorating your wall with art or photos.