How to Fix a Wall Panel
The wall paneling in your home gives your décor a sense of warmth and style. While paneling is a durable option, it may occasionally require surface repairs. Removing minor scratches and dings from a wooden wall panel is fairly simple. Before you begin the wall-panel repair process, know what type of paneling you have, because it affects the method of repair you use. If it's veneer, you are likely to see light-colored pine wood beneath the darker-colored surface layer. A solid wooden wall panel has the same texture below the surface as it does on top. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Fine-grit sandpaper
- Damp cloth
- Steam iron
- Wood stain
- Wood finish
- Paintbrush
- Putty stick
- Soft cloth
Instructions
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Solid Wood Panel Repair
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1
Sand the wooden wall panel lightly with the grain using fine-grit sandpaper. Only sand enough to remove the scratch or problem area.
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2
Turn on the steam iron to the "Hot" setting and let it heat. Hold a damp cloth against the damaged portion of the wall with one hand, while you set the hot iron on the cloth. Let the steam raise the wood fibers of the paneling. Turn off the iron and set it in a safe place to cool.
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3
Sand the wall panel again when the raised fibers dry.
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4
Apply wood stain that matches the paneling with a soft rag. Wipe off the excess stain.
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5
Cover the repaired area with matching wood finish applied with a small paintbrush. Allow the finish to dry.
Wood Veneer Repair
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6
Wipe dust or dirt from the damaged area.
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7
Hold a putty stick that matches the wood veneer in your hand for a few minutes to soften it.
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8
Rub the putty stick over the damaged area. Work as much putty as you can into the scratch. Allow the putty to dry slightly.
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9
Wipe off excess putty with a soft cloth. Ensure you don't wipe away the putty filling the scratch.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Test stains or finishes in an inconspicuous area first.
