How To Paint Wood Wainscoting

Are you tired of the outdated look of your wood wainscoting? Painting it can be a great way to update your space and give it a fresh new look.

But before you start, there are a few things you need to know. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of painting wood wainscoting, from preparing the surface to applying the final coat of paint.

Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, our step-by-step instructions will help you achieve a professional-looking finish.

So grab your paintbrush and let’s get started!

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

The first step in painting wood wainscoting is to prepare the surface. Start by filling any holes or cracks with wood putty using a putty knife. Allow the putty to dry completely before sanding the surface lightly with 150-grit sandpaper. This will create a lightly gritty surface that will help the paint adhere.

If your wainscoting has a sheen, you may want to sand it lightly to remove it. However, if you’re using a good primer that will stick to the old finish, sanding may not be necessary. Just keep in mind that sanding always improves adhesion.

After sanding, wipe down the surface with a slightly damp cloth to remove all the dust. This will ensure that the primer and paint adhere properly.

Step 2: Apply Primer

Apply two thin coats of primer using a brush or roller, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Be sure to use a high-quality primer that is recommended for use on wood surfaces.

Step 3: Paint Your Wainscoting

Once the primer has dried completely, it’s time to paint your wainscoting. Choose a high-quality paint that is recommended for use on wood surfaces and apply at least two thin coats using a brush or roller.

Be sure to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. If necessary, lightly sand between coats to ensure a smooth finish.

Step 4: Protect Your Work Area

While painting your wainscoting, it’s important to protect your work area. Cover the floor with drop cloths large enough to reach along the paneled walls and mask any areas you wish to protect, such as vents, doorways, or windows, with painters tape.

Step 5: Clean Up

After you’ve finished painting your wainscoting, be sure to clean up properly. Remove any drop cloths and painters tape and dispose of them properly. Clean your brushes and rollers with soap and water or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Gathering The Necessary Materials And Tools

To paint your wood wainscoting, you’ll need a few tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

1. Wood putty: Use this to fill any holes or cracks in the wainscoting before painting.

2. 150-grit sandpaper: Use this to lightly sand the surface of the wainscoting after applying the wood putty.

3. Stain-blocking primer: Apply this to the wainscoting before painting to prevent any stains or tannins from bleeding through the paint.

4. Wall paint: Choose a high-quality paint that is recommended for use on wood surfaces.

5. Paintbrushes: Use brushes of varying sizes to apply the primer and paint to the wainscoting.

6. Paint roller and tray: Use a roller and tray for larger areas of the wainscoting to ensure an even coat of paint.

7. Drop cloths: Cover the floor with drop cloths to protect it from any paint drips or spills.

8. Painter’s tape: Use this to mask off any areas you wish to protect, such as vents, doorways, or windows.

9. Soap and water: Use this to clean your brushes and rollers after you’ve finished painting.

By gathering these materials and tools, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle your wood wainscoting painting project with confidence.

Preparing The Wood Wainscoting Surface For Painting

To prepare the wood wainscoting surface for painting, start by filling any holes or cracks with wood putty using a putty knife. Allow the putty to dry completely before sanding the surface lightly with 150-grit sandpaper. This will create a lightly gritty surface that will help the paint adhere.

After sanding, wipe down the surface with a slightly damp cloth to remove all the dust. This will ensure that the primer and paint adhere properly.

Before painting your wood wainscoting, it’s important to apply a stain-blocking primer. This will help prevent any stains or tannins from bleeding through the paint and ensure that the paint adheres properly. Apply two thin coats of primer using a brush or roller, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Be sure to use a high-quality primer that is recommended for use on wood surfaces.

Be sure to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. If necessary, lightly sand between coats to ensure a smooth finish.

Sanding And Filling Any Imperfections

Sanding and filling any imperfections is a crucial step in preparing your wood wainscoting for painting. Start by using wood putty and a putty knife to fill any holes, cracks, or scratches in the surface. Allow the putty to dry completely before sanding lightly with 150-grit sandpaper. This will create a lightly gritty surface that will help the paint adhere.

If your wainscoting has a sheen, you may want to sand it lightly to remove it. However, be careful not to sand too aggressively, as this can damage the wood. If your wainscoting is thin veneer instead of solid wood, you may want to try using deglosser rather than sanding.

After filling and sanding, use a vacuum’s brush attachment to thoroughly clean the surface of any dust or debris. This will ensure that the primer and paint adhere properly.

By taking the time to properly sand and fill any imperfections in your wood wainscoting, you’ll ensure that your final paint job looks smooth and professional. Don’t cut any corners during this step, as it will make a big difference in the final result.

Priming The Wood Wainscoting

Before painting your wood wainscoting, it’s important to apply a primer to the surface. This will help the paint adhere properly and provide a smooth finish. The type of primer you choose will depend on the type of wood wainscoting you have.

For solid wood wainscoting, use a water-based primer. For veneer wainscoting, use a shellac-based primer. It’s also important to look for a primer that has “stain-blocking” properties to prevent any knots or imperfections from bleeding through the paint.

To apply the primer, start by cutting in at the corners and edges of the wainscoting using a 2-inch high-quality angle sash brush. This will help you get into any cracks or crevices that a roller can’t reach. Then, use a foam sponge roller cover to apply the primer to the flat surfaces of the wainscoting.

Apply a thin coat of primer and allow it to dry completely before applying a second coat. Check the instructions on your primer can for the recommended drying time between coats.

Once the second coat of primer has dried completely, lightly sand the surface with 220-grit sandpaper to create a lightly gritty surface that will help the paint adhere. Wipe down the surface with a slightly damp cloth to remove any dust before painting.

By properly priming your wood wainscoting, you’ll ensure that your paint job looks professional and lasts for years to come.

Choosing The Right Paint For Wood Wainscoting

Choosing the right paint for wood wainscoting is crucial for achieving a durable and beautiful finish. When it comes to choosing between water-based or oil-based paints, it’s important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each.

Water-based acrylic/latex paints are a popular choice for most interior wall painting applications. They are easy to clean up with water, have less odor, and dry quickly. Water-based paints can also develop a durable coating and an adequately smooth finish.

On the other hand, oil-based paints are known for creating a rock-hard, shell-like coating. They dry much slower than water-based paint, which can be an advantage when trying to eliminate brush marks in the paint. Oil-based paints have more time to level out than water-based paints, making it easier to achieve a glass-like finish.

However, over the years, paint technology has dramatically changed, and experts feel that the benefits of waterborne alkyd paints outweigh oil paints. Good quality interior latex paint offers excellent durability, doesn’t yellow with time, and self-levels, giving you a nice appearance overall.

When it comes to choosing the right finish for your wood wainscoting, semi-gloss is usually recommended. It offers a nice balance between shine and durability and is easy to clean. If you’re looking for a more reflective and elegant look in your dining room, you can try a high gloss finish. Keep in mind that high gloss paint is more difficult to work with than semi-gloss and should be done by an experienced painter.

In terms of color selection, Benjamin Moore’s Regal Select Interior paint is an excellent choice for wood wainscoting. It offers excellent hide and uniform finish and is available in over 3,500 colors. Before making your final color selection, be sure to check out our color selection guide or try before you buy with color samples to ensure you choose the perfect shade for your project.

When painting your wood wainscoting, be sure to use a good quality brush or roller for best results. Cut in the paint by applying an even amount along the edges of the wainscoting first, then fill in the remaining project surface with an even coat of paint. Remember to protect your work area with drop cloths and painters tape and clean up properly after you’re done.

Applying The First Coat Of Paint

After you have applied the primer and allowed it to dry completely, it’s time to apply the first coat of paint. Start by stirring the paint thoroughly to ensure that the color is consistent throughout.

Using a brush or roller, apply the paint in downward strokes, working in small sections at a time. Be sure to apply the paint thinly and evenly, taking care to avoid drips or pooling.

If you’re using a brush, use long strokes and try to maintain a wet edge to avoid visible brush strokes. If you’re using a roller, start at the top of the panel and work your way down in a W pattern, then smooth out any bubbles or lines with light strokes.

Once you have covered a section, move on to the next one, working your way around the room until all of the wainscoting has been painted. Be sure to allow the first coat of paint to dry completely before applying the second coat.

Remember that one coat may not be enough, especially if you’re painting over a darker color or if your wainscoting is particularly porous. Applying two thin coats of paint will ensure a smooth and durable finish that will last for years to come.