How to Paint Simulated Wood

Sand the simulated wood to promote adhesion.

Simulated wood is a relatively inexpensive manufactured surface, composed of a mixture of wood and plastic particles. If you want to paint simulated wood, consider some important factors. First, because simulated wood contains plastic, it is ill-suited for adhesion. You must condition the simulated wood to accept paint, or it will eventually shed its new finish. In addition, use a specific type of paint, depending on the location and function of the simulated wood.

Things You'll Need

• Dish soap
• Rags
• 220-grit sandpaper
• Tackcloth
• Heavy-duty fabric dropcloth
• Blue painter's tape
• Latex primer
• 2- to 4-inch latex paintbrush
• Latex paint

Instructions

1. Wash the simulated wood with dish soap and a rag. Rinse the simulated wood with damp rags. Wait one to three hours for the simulated wood to dry.

2. Scour the simulated wood surface with 220-grit sandpaper to enhance adhesion. Stop sanding when the simulated wood feels slightly gritty.

3. Wipe down the sanded simulated wood with a tackcloth.

4. Cover the areas beneath the simulated wood with a fabric dropcloth. Cover portions of the simulated wood you do not want painted with low-tack blue painter's tape.

5. Coat the sanded simulated wood with a latex primer, using a 2- to 4-inch latex paintbrush manufactured for use with water-based paints. Wait two hours for the primed simulated wood to dry.

6. Wash the brush with water.

7. Coat the primed simulated wood with a latex paint. Apply paint to the simulated wood just as you did the primer. Wait two hours for the painted simulated wood to dry. Add another coat if the primer is showing through.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a latex primer and a satin latex paint if the simulated wood is interior wall paneling. Use a semi-gloss or gloss latex paint if it is interior trim or furniture. Use an acrylic latex primer and paint if the simulated wood is outdoors.

• Do not paint over unsanded simulated wood, or the finish will fail.

• Do not paint over unprimed simulated wood, or the paint will eventually peel.

Resources

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