Tips for Finishing Knotty Pine Paneling

Knotty pine paneling is one of the most beautiful ways to bring a rustic, western or natural feeling to any room. Although often used in log homes, knotty pine paneling can also be used in traditional homes and offers a warm, natural appearance that is hard to beat. While there are many kinds of wood paneling that you can use on your walls, knotty pine is unique because of the beautiful large knots in the wood that help lend it character and charm.

If you are going to install knotty pine paneling in your home you may want to consider finishing it yourself rather than buying it already finished. You can save quite a bit of money if you choose unfinished paneling and then put the work in to do it yourself. Here are some tips for finishing knotty pine paneling that should help you along your way.

It is easier to finish the knotty pine paneling before you install it rather than when it is up on the wall. Not only is it easier to reach when it is down at your level, but you can finish it laying flat which will prevent drips or runs that may occur if the paneling is up on the wall. To work on the paneling you may want to use sawhorses or a workbench to raise the wood up to a comfortable level.

Before you begin finishing the paneling you should pick through the pile and sort out any pieces that are duds. Ideally all of the paneling you ordered will be perfect, however it is not unusual to get a few pieces that are lower quality. Look for any boards that are crooked or that have holes or large imperfections and pick them out of the pile.

Once you have picked out the duds you should be ready to get going. In order to get the smoothest, most beautiful application you will want to take the time to look over each piece of wood and sand out any imperfections before you install it. You don't have to go overboard sanding every square inch, but do take the time to sand down rough spots or imperfections. Use a light grit of sandpaper and either an orbital sander or palm sander. Be sure to sand with the grain of the wood and not across or against it to get the nicest finish.

Once the wood is sanded wipe of any dust left over from sanding using a tack cloth. You can finish the knotty pine paneling using whatever stain, varnish or coating you would like. Follow the manufacturer's directions for applying the product and make sure to work in a warm, well ventilated area. Take your time and apply as many coats as necessary - remember that the more work you put into it the nicer your finished walls are going to be. Once the coating you have applied is dry you can install the paneling and create your beautiful, natural room.