Installing wood paneling

Installing wood paneling

Installing wood paneling in any room injects architectural detail, warmth, and character into your home. We use it often on our projects, cedar being our favorite since we live in the Pacific North West. The first nations consider Cedar to be a "healing wood" Cedar paneling does create a powerful ambiance, and a feeling of security and warmth. Cedar paneling is ideal for large or small homes

All you need is a wall and here are a few tips for success:

This is our Madrona Drive project, clad in Cedar paneling for walls AND ceiling

1. Choose Your Paneling: We recommend tongue-and-groove paneling, which is a bit more expensive and takes a bit more effort to install. It’s worth the investment, though: Tongue-and-groove paneling will look much better than sheet paneling and add more value to your home.

2. Create the Framework: Install wood paneling over one-by-two-inch furring strips installed horizontally at sixteen-inch intervals. Cut the furring strips to length and nail them to the joists. If you notice any unevenness in the wall, fasten scrap wood behind the furring in these areas in order to keep your tongue-and-groove planks in plane. Minor protruding areas can be sanded or flattened

3. Finished or unfinished ?  Before you install wood paneling, first decide on a finish. While a paint finish can be added post-installation, it’s easier to apply stain and clear coat beforehand to get into all of the grooves, plus we like to use natural wood and let its beauty shine through. It’s possible to purchase pre-finished panels, but be very careful with it as it is prone to chipping and damage

4. Nail It. By starting with a single plank. WE use nail guns, but it is possible to do this manually if you are into self torture. We suggest renting an air nailer and compressor if you do not have one. Once you’ve made sure that it’s level and flush, nail the plank to the furring with finishing nails. Next, nail into the tongue of the plank at a 45-degree angle, making sure your compressor is set to sink the nail head just below the wood surface.  Sliding the groove of the next plank onto the tongue of the first, rinse and repeat.

Good luck and do not hesitate to call us for a consultation and a free estimate ( 250 ) 508 - 6601