Collection: Wall Panelling Paint

With so many paints available to choose from when it comes to panelling, it can become a little bit overwhelming when choosing the perfect one. So with that being said some of our top recommendations include:

Zinsser AllCoat - Like the name suggest, Zinnser AllCoat can be used on almost all surfaces including wall panelling. Super scrubbable and hardwearing, this water based paint is available in all 3 finishes and also includes the added bonus if you’re painting more than just the panelling (such as the radiators, windows, walls etc) then this works out as a really fantastic choice to get value for money.

Johnstone's Acrylic Durable Matt - Offering a class 1 scrub rating and suitable for using on walls and woodwork, the Johnstone's Durable Matt paint provides a beautifully smooth matt finish. Also available in Eggshell , this colour match paint is highly durable and provides a tough finish resistant to condensation, yellowing and most household stains. 

Read Our Favourite Products To Use When Painting Panelling blog for more information. 

Whether you need to prime MDF depends on whether the MDF is bare, pre-primed or already painted, as well as the paint system you're using.

Bare MDF should generally be primed before applying the finishing coats. Priming helps seal the porous MDF surface and provides a suitable base for the topcoat. Pay particular attention to exposed or cut edges, which can be more absorbent than the face of the board. To achieve a beautifully prepped surface we recommend using the Leyland Trade Acrylic Primer Undercoat .

For previously painted MDF, you can generally repaint once the existing coating is sound, clean and properly prepared. Always check the technical information for your chosen paint, as preparation requirements can vary between products.

Both rollers and brushes can be used when painting wall panelling, and the best choice often depends on the design and profile of the panelling.

A small, smooth roller can be useful for covering the larger flat sections of MDF or wood panelling quickly and evenly. A good-quality paint brush is useful for getting into grooves, corners, mouldings and detailed areas where a roller cannot reach.

For the best result, many decorators use a combination of both: apply paint to the larger areas with a roller and use a brush to work the detailed sections and cut in around the edges.

A lamb's wool  or lime series roller are the best options for achieving the best looking finish on your wooden surfaces.

You can use matt, eggshell or satin paint on wall panelling, depending on the look and level of durability you want.

• Matt paint has a low-sheen finish and creates a contemporary, understated appearance. It's a popular choice where you want the panelling to blend seamlessly with the surrounding walls.
• Eggshell has a subtle sheen and is generally more durable and washable than a standard matt finish, making it a practical option for areas that receive more contact.
• Satin provides a higher sheen than eggshell and can emphasise the detail and depth of decorative panelling while providing a more durable finish.

The most important consideration is to choose a product that is suitable for the material you're painting and follow the manufacturer's recommended preparation and application process.

Yes, lightly sanding previously painted wall panelling is generally recommended before repainting, particularly when the existing finish is glossy or smooth.

First, make sure the existing paint is sound and remove any loose, flaking or peeling areas. Clean the panelling to remove dirt, grease and other contaminants, then lightly sand the surface to provide a suitable key for the new paint.

Remove all sanding dust before painting. If the existing coating is in poor condition or you are unsure what type of paint is already on the surface, additional preparation or a suitable primer may be required.

Avoid aggressive sanding on detailed or profiled panelling, as this can damage the decorative surface.

You can use the same paint on your wall panelling and walls in some situations, but it depends on the material of the panelling and the specification of the paint.

If your panelling is made from MDF or another suitable paintable material and you've correctly prepared the surface, a suitable interior wall or trim paint may be appropriate. However, wall panelling often benefits from a more durable finish, particularly in areas where it is likely to be touched or knocked.

Always check that the specific paint is suitable for both the wall surface and the panelling material before applying it.