How to DIY your own wall panelling

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Panelling a wall has been a popular returning trend in recent years. The process requires no major invasive construction and can be a fantastic change to make if you want something new for your wall on a budget. Follow this guide to see how you can panel your wall to create a brand-new look in a few simple steps.

History of wall panels
What you need
How to apply panels to a wall
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
- Step 6
Additional design ideas

History of wall panels

The 15^th century was a time when wood panelling was seen as THE design to have, though this didn’t hit the domestic sector until the 16^th century. Today it maintains its popularity, being one of the most cost-effective ways to change up the look of a room.

Here is an example of a fully panelled wall:

Check out the steps below to find out how you can DIY wall panels for your room.

What you need

MDF or plywood with a depth most suited to skirting board
Measurement of the width you will be cutting the panels to
Tape measure
Paper
Marking tool (pen or pencil)
Large spirit level
Wall plugs (optional – see step 4)
Caulk
Sanding tool
Primer
Paint (colour of your choice)
Countersink drill bit (optional – see step 4)
Nails (optional – see step 4)
Nailing gun (optional – see step 4)
Glue (optional – see step 4)
Screws (optional – see step 4)

How to apply panels to a wall

Step 1: Measurements for wall panels

Measure the width of your wall (confirm measurements to finalise the wall width in your notes). Once that is done you will need to work out the distance you want to have between each of the vertical panels – this will determine the number of panels you need.

Step 2: Finalising wall panel measurements

Once you have the above measurements, do the following equation:

Number of panels wanted x panel width = figure.1

Then take the width of the wall and subtract ‘figure.1’ gained from the previous equation:

Width of wall – figure.1 = total sum you can play with when it comes to gaps between the panels.

Once you have the total sum, divide that total sum by the number of gaps you will be left with:

Total sum ÷ gaps between panels = figure.2

Following this, you will need to work out the height you want for the panels. This will depend on specific things in the room (windowsills etc) that might affect the final heights of each panel.

Once you have that, you can begin finalising the calculations by working out how many horizontal panels will be needed to go across the top of the vertical panels. Take the height of the panels and work out how many can fit across the width of the room. Example calculations as follows:

Width of room ÷ height of panels = total number of panels needed horizontally.

Step 3: Marking the wall

Use the tape measure, pencil and spirit level for this next step. Draw out the panelling on the wall as this will help finalise the measurements. This way you can also make a note of any potential features in the way (plug sockets, light switches etc).

You’ve got the measurements and the markings, now you can purchase your MDF or plywood. At Roofing Superstore you can find a range of MDF and plywood available to choose from and purchase directly from the online store.

Step 4: Installing the DIY wall panelling

You may be wondering what the best way to install the panels is. In fact, there are two possible ways you can do so:

Method 1: Screws

This first method is one that requires no form of adhesive. Be warned that this is the method that takes longer, but offers a more cost-effective and time-saving solution if you decide to remove it in the future.

Simply drill three holes into the top, middle and bottom of your panel (if your walls are straight, you can save doing the middle screw) to support the flatness of the panel and reduce the risk of a bow in the centre.

Using your marking tool, mark where the holes will be on the wall – vertical holes then horizontal holes. Once these holes are marked you can then drill the holes into the wall and insert the wall plugs.

Next, create a small cavity using a countersink drill bit to ensure the screw can sit flush in each drilled hole of the panel.

Screw the panels to the wall, repeating the process across the marked locations.

Repeat for all panels until complete.

Method 2: Glue and a nail gun

This option is for those who don’t have a continuous need to change their room appearance as you will need to re-plaster the wall behind the panelling after it’s been removed.

This is the quickest and easiest way to install wood panelling. If you don’t have a nail gun, you can purchase one at Roofing Superstore alongside your panelling purchase.

Step 5: Sealing the edges

Use caulk to fill all holes and cover all edges with poly filler. Let this dry, then sand the poly filler back. Repeat if needed to ensure that the appearance is smooth.