Skim Coating Wood Paneling: A Viable Alternative or Unsatisfactory Solution?
Putting a skim coat over wood paneling can be a viable option if you're looking to update the look of a room without the hassle of removing the paneling. However, the process and results can vary significantly. This article explores the advantages and limitations of skim coating wood paneling, providing insights into the process and considerations for using this technique.
Process of Skim Coating Wood Paneling
Before applying a skim coat to wood paneling, consider the following steps to ensure a successful outcome:
1. Preparation
Cleaning: Clean the wood paneling thoroughly to remove dust and grease. A light sanding can help the skim coat adhere better if the surface is glossy.
2. Priming
Primer Application: Apply a primer designed for slick surfaces. This step is crucial to prevent the skim coat from peeling and to ensure a better overall finish.
3. Skim Coating
Application: Use a joint compound or a specialized skim coat product. Apply it with a trowel or a wide knife, ensuring an even layer. Multiple layers may be necessary, depending on the desired texture, with each layer needing to dry completely before the next is applied.
4. Sanding
Sanding: Once the skim coat has dried, sand the surface to achieve a smooth finish. It is important to avoid sanding too much to prevent exposing the wood underneath.
5. Finishing
Finishing: After sanding, you can paint or texture the surface as desired. This step allows you to fully customize the look of the room without the hassle of removing the paneling.
Results of Skim Coating Wood Paneling
Aesthetic Improvement: A skim coat can dramatically change the appearance of a room, making it feel more modern and cohesive.
Texture: With the right application technique, you can achieve a smooth or textured finish, allowing you to customize the look of the room according to your preferences.
Durability: If done correctly, the skim coat can be quite durable. However, it may require care to avoid damage.
Time and Cost: This method can save time and money compared to full removal and replacement of paneling. However, it's important to consider the potential issues that can arise if not done properly.
Considerations for Skim Coating Wood Paneling
Moisture: Ensure that moisture is not trapped between the skim coat and the wood. Moisture can lead to mold and deterioration, compromising the structural integrity and appearance of the paneling.
Weight: Adding a skim coat increases the weight on the wall. This is generally not a significant concern, but it's something to be aware of, especially in older structures.
Humidity and Board Movement: Timber moves according to the humidity in the air, whereas plaster does not. This can cause cracks along the board joints, especially when you consider the movement of the boards under atmospheric conditions.
One user noted that they have never tried this method, and the results would likely be unsatisfactory, with the skim coat cracking along all the board joints caused by the movement of the boards under atmospheric conditions. The inherent limitations of wood paneling, such as its susceptibility to humidity and expansion, make it challenging to achieve a truly cohesive and long-lasting finish with a skim coat alone.
Your best option could be to leave the planking there and screw plasterboard to that if it's not rotten or unstable. This approach can be more effective and reliable in achieving a modern and fresh look without the risk of the issues associated with skim coating wood paneling.