How to Upgrade Your Home with Easy-to-Install Beadboard Paneling

Installing beadboard paneling can be a great way to give any room or home a vintage or country-rustic style, as well as conceal any existing damage on the walls such as cracked plaster and damaged drywall. It gives a fresh look to any wall and adds a unique personality to the space.

To begin, you need to decide on the size and number of panels you need. Once you have the exact amount, make sure to leave the panels in the room you plan to assemble them for at least two days. This helps the panels adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity level, as wood expands and contracts when exposed to changes in climate.

It is essential to apply a finish to your panels before assembly. Popular finishes are polyurethane, stain, or a combination of the two. It is recommended to place the boards on sawhorses for a mess-free application of the finish. Make sure to allow it to completely dry before you start assembly.

Draw a reference line across the room at the height that you want the beadboard to be, this can also help make sure its level. Cut or trim any panels that exceed the desired height. Turn one of the panels so its back is facing you, then spread paneling adhesive with a zigzag pattern. Place the panel on the wall, making sure the reference line you drew is your guide. You can use paneling nails to attach the panel to the wall studs. Repeat the process for the rest of the panels.

If you need a longer board, feel free to trim it to size with the use of a circular saw and guide. For outlets, use a drywall square to mark them, then with a jigsaw, carve the hole. To finish off, attach beadboard molding trims on the top and the sides of the panels using paneling nails. Secure L-shaped outside corner molding and cove molding at the inside and outside corners to help the edges look much smoother.

Aside from its beautiful appearance, beadboard paneling is also great for rooms that are often used, especially where the walls may need to be replaced or repaired due to scratches and dents. As an added bonus, the finish adds additional protection, making it an ideal choice for highly trafficked rooms.