How to Paint Plastic Wood

Abrade the paneling to promote adhesion by sanding it with a fine-grit sandpaper.

Two types of surfaces are commonly referred to as plastic wood: synthetic paneling and ta type of wood filler used to seal holes and repair cracks. Each type requires different preparation techniques and specific coatings. The surface should be properly prepared before painting to avoid paint failure over time.

Things You'll Need

• 300-grit sandpaper
• Tack cloth
• Roller frame
• 2 nap roller covers
• Acrylic latex primer
• 2- to 4-inch latex paintbrush
• Acrylic satin latex paint
• Oil-based primer
• Oil-based paint
• 2- to 4-inch oil-based paintbrush
• Mineral spirits

Instructions

Synthetic paneling

1. Sand the paneling with a fine-grit sandpaper to abrade it to promote paint adhesion.

2. Wipe the surface with a tack cloth to remove dust that could interfere with primer adhesion.

3. Apply a coat of acrylic latex primer with a roller. Smooth the wet primer with a paintbrush for latex paints. Allow the primer to dry for two hours.

4. Clean the brush with water.

5. Apply a coat of acrylic satin latex paint to the primed paneling in the same way you applied the primer.

Wood filler

1. Apply a coat of oil-based primer to the plastic wood filler with a paintbrush for oil-based paints. Allow the primer to dry for three hours.

2. Wash the brush with mineral spirits.

3. Apply a coat of oil-based paint to the primed wood filler with the cleaned brush.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not paint over plastic wood paneling without abrading it, first, or you will have problems with adhesion.

• Do not paint over plastic wood filler with acrylic latex primers or paints, or the finish will peel.

Resources

• Popular Mechanics: 5 Pro Painting Tips Every Amateur Should Know