Installing wall panelling is a simple and effective way to transform any room in your home. However, without the right preparation and guidance, it's easy to make mistakes when installing. We’re here to help save you time and money by looking at some common mistakes people face when installing wall panelling.
Discover some of the most common mistakes to avoid when installing wall panelling.
Ignoring Surface Preparation
One of the biggest mistakes to avoid when installing wall panelling is skipping surface preparation beforehand. Failing to prepare your walls correctly can lead to uneven panels, poor adhesion and a less professional finish. You should avoid starting the wall panelling installation process if your walls are dirty, uneven or damp.
Start by ensuring your walls are clean, smooth, and completely dry, removing any dust or grease from them. Sand down any rough areas on your walls and use a filler to repair holes and cracks. If your wall surface is particularly rough and uneven, you may need to install a backboard first to create a flat surface. This would be added to the backs of your panels.
Poor Planning Of Panel Layout
Before installing wall panelling, it’s important to have a plan for the layout of your wall panelling and gather everything you’ll need to complete the job. Consider creating a rough sketch of your panel layout before installing to help visualise the finished look. Mark with a pencil on your walls where each panel will go, so you can know where to start and where your panelling will finish. Without a clear layout, you risk awkward placement that can take away from the overall look.
Using the Wrong Tools
Using the wrong tools during installation can lead to a poor overall finish. For example, failing to use a spirit level on your first panel can cause all your panels to sit crooked. Keep a spirit level nearby to ensure precise alignment and straight lines throughout.
If you need to cut your panels to size, make sure you are using a saw or power tool with sharp blades. Dull blades can create jagged edges and ruin the look of your wall panelling. If you want to avoid cutting your panels, consider purchasing bespoke wall panelling kits, which are designed to fit your walls perfectly. This makes installing wall panels a little simpler.
What Tools You Need:
- A hand saw (a tenon saw works well)
- Spirit level
- Strong adhesive
- Pencil
- Tape measure
- Site Protractor (helpful for measuring angles)
- Panel pins
- Paint and paintbrush (if you are looking to paint your panels)
Incorrect Measuring
Always measure twice when measuring your walls and cutting your panels. An accurate measure will ensure a seamless finish for your wall panelling. Incorrect measurement can lead to visible gaps, misaligned panels and wasted material.
You need precise measurements. Start by measuring the height and width of your walls, taking into account any obstacles such as electrical outlets, corners and windows. Accurate measurements will save you time and help prevent errors during installation.
Information needed for bespoke wall panelling
To create made-to-measure wall panels, we would need:
- The panelling style: We offer a range of bespoke wall panelling styles, including Edwardian, Elizabethan, Georgian, Shaker, and Tongue & Groove.
- The desired height of the panelling
- The total width of the wall you need to cover
Using The Wrong Adhesives
You don’t always need nails to install your wall panelling, but it’s important to use a high-quality, strong adhesive. Using the wrong adhesive or not using enough can cause your panels to loosen or detach over time. If you are unsure of which type of adhesive is best, check with your panel manufacturer to see what they recommend for the specific type of panels you have purchased.
Before fitting your first wall panel, double-check your layout and that you know the exact position of each panel piece. This helps prevent mistakes that could potentially ruin your walls and panelling in the process.
Top Tip: Apply your adhesive evenly across the back of each panel and press them firmly into place to ensure a secure bond.
Underestimating Maintenance Needs
Wall panelling is generally low maintenance and easy to clean, but cleaning incorrectly can shorten the lifespan of your panelling and affect its appearance.
To maintain the look of your walls, regularly dust your panels with a microfiber cloth. For a deeper clean, gently wipe down your panels with a soft cloth and some warm, soapy water. Don’t forget to dry the surface of your panels after cleaning, as excess moisture can cause streaks or water marks. Avoid using abrasive cleaning materials such as bleach or excessive water, as these can damage the finish of your wall panelling.
Transform Your Walls With DIY Wall Panelling
Looking to give your walls a fresh, stylish upgrade? Here at DIY Wall Panelling, we offer a range of high-quality wall panelling kits designed for both seasoned DIYers and DIY beginners. Our wall panelling styles include Edwardian, Elizabethan, Georgian, Shaker, and Tongue & Groove.
Explore our collection and start planning your DIY wall panelling project today.