How to Remove Wood Paneling in Home Remodeling

Wood paneling can give walls a homey and comfortable appearance. Unfortunately, these coverings can also become quickly dated. If you've inherited a house with wood paneling on the walls, or have just decided that it's time for a change of pace, you can remove the wood paneling yourself.

Screwdriver
Claw hammer
Pry bar
Heat gun/hair dryer
Assistant (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Remove anything that might be hanging on the wood paneling, such as pictures or shelving. Remove socket and light switch plates by loosening the screws with a screwdriver and pulling them off.
- 2
  Use a claw hammer or pry bar to remove any strips of moulding visible on the perimeters of the wood paneling.
- 3
  Insert the end of the pry bar underneath one side of the paneling. Gently pry the paneling away from the wall. Grab the edges of the panel with your fingers and pull it backwards until it comes off the wall.
- 4
  Continue working your way around the room and pulling off the wooden panels from the wall with a pry bar.
- 5
  Melt off glued paneling with a heat gun or hair dryer. Start at the edge of the panel and blow hot air over where the panel meets the wall. Gradually pull the panel backwards as you work. Have an assistant hold the panel, if needed, while you continue to blow on the glue with the hair dryer or heat gun.

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