How to Paint Uneven Walls, Paneling, and Wallpaper

The cheapest and easiest way to freshen up a room is with a fresh coat of new paint. New paints on the market allow you to paint everything from paneling to bathroom tiles. Here area few suggestions for painting common problem areas.

Paneling

Tacky brown paneling is common in older homes. Nothing can make a room look smaller, darker and dingier than this 1970s trademark. Painted paneling, especially in shades of white or cream can instantly transform a room from dated to country chic.

The trick to painting paneling is using plenty of primer. Just like sheetrock, paneling absorbs paint, so don't be alarmed when your first coat of primer all but disappears after it dries. Two to three coats of white primer should be enough to ready paneled walls for paint.

The most obvious color choice for paneling is a light shade. After all, you are trying to get rid of dark walls! Freshly painted white paneling is reminiscent of farmhouse bead board, and can add an unexpected touch of country to your room.

Besides fake wood paneling, older homes often have faux tile paneling in the bathroom. You can paint over fake tile in bathrooms just as easily as you can wooden paneling in other rooms. Be sure to use a primer and paint that contains mildewcide, to prevent mildew from growing.

Uneven Walls

Old houses are notorious for uneven, plastered walls. A sponge technique can camouflage unsightly cracks and patches on your walls. To sponge paint uneven walls you will need semi-gloss latex paint, in two colors. The colors should compliment one another, such as a violet purple and pale lavender.

Begin by cleaning the walls with warm water and soap. Any visible cracks and holes should be filled in with wall putty. Cover the walls with two coats of primer. Next, paint the walls with a darker shade of paint. Mix your lighter shade with a clear glaze (found in the paint section). A good formula is one part glaze to two parts paint. Using a natural sea sponge, begin sponging the walls, working in 4x4 foot sections. Be sure to turn the sponge while working, otherwise you will end up with a design similar to an animal print. Every few minutes stand back and survey your progress, looking for consistent, even coverage.

Painting Wall Paper

I wish I could say there is a magic trick to painting over existing wallpaper. Unfortunately, painted wallpaper looks like....well, painted wallpaper. Your best option is to rent a steamer and remove the wallpaper before painting. A steamer can make the job so much easier! It will also save you a lot of time and aggravation in the end.

Hopefully these tips will inspire you to tackle a problem area around your own house!