Paneling - paint it or pull it?

[Randal McLeaird]

Just bought a rehab project and we're about to complete it. We already pulled all the paneling off and when we did, the sheet rock was damaged from pulling the paneling and glue off the wall. We had the guys re-float all the walls and spray new texture and it looks great but I've also heard of guys painting directly over paneling.

Anyone done this with success?

[Steve Babiak]

I find paneling (and drop ceilings) often being used to hide problematic surfaces - either big holes or cracks that are tough to keep repaired. There are some older places where the remodel was last done in the 60s or 70s when paneling was considered stylish.

Sometimes it will be nailed to firring strips rather than glued on too.

Painting it works so long as the seams are not moving when pressure is applied to the wall (lean on the wall).

Whether you paint or remove truly depends on the target marketplace and what an occupant's expectations will be. Higher end will expect smooth walls; lower end will accept clean and fresh (painting will accomplish this).

See what the competition does in your area.