Updated at: 16-09-2022 - By: cnbusinessnews

In order to restore paneling that has been damaged by water, it is necessary to inspect the area. However, before you can do that, you need to educate yourself on the various paneling options.

This can help you prioritize repairs in the event of water damage to your home. That’s why we explained in detail what causes water damage to various types of wood paneling.

We’ve included the warning signals to look out for and the procedures to restore your wood paneling. This is a lot of reading, but it’s worth it.

Different Kinds Of Wood Paneling

Both solid wood and engineered wood boards can be used for wood paneling. Even though they’re both made of wood, there’s a noticeable distinction in terms of style and comfort.

Although solid wood has a more refined appearance, engineered timber is the material of choice for most homeowners due to its lower cost. Wall paneling, wainscoting, ceiling paneling, and exterior paneling are the four types of wood paneling.

Wooden wall paneling is an easy way to give your home a more refined look and feel. They are easily covered by stain or paint. They also add to the value of your home.

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Several aesthetic options are available for wainscoting. However, it is easily damaged by water, which is a major drawback. Teak is a great choice for wainscoting because it is durable and can support weight.

Paneling for the ceiling is the most long-lasting option. Because of their insulating and moisture-resistant properties, they help keep the air inside your home at a consistent temperature.

Exterior paneling, last but not least, can be stained or painted. In addition, it is the most eco-friendly and sustainable option of the four.

Now that you understand the many paneling options, you’ll be better equipped to learn about water damage and its effects.

How does paneling acquire water damage?

Wood paneling is susceptible to the same kind of damage that occurs to walls and ceilings. Your paneling won’t be completely safe from moisture even if it’s made of treated wood.

Furthermore, water poses a threat to its visual appeal. It has the potential to alter the hue.

Without proper treatment, water damage to wood can weaken the structure of your home. The damage could reduce your home’s resale value and drive up your repair bills.

The indications of water damage are listed here so you may be on the lookout for them and avoid the disastrous results.

Typical signs of water damage on paneling

1. Warped wood

As was previously indicated, wainscoting may be susceptible to humidity fluctuations. Depending on the humidity in your house, they could either contract or swell. Humidity will cause wood to change shape, although the amount of change will depend on the wood’s quality and type.

2. Water stains or discoloration

Discoloration caused by water damage is referred to as a water stain. This is easily discerned, especially since the wood paneling in your home has aesthetic value. The damage to its exterior will be readily apparent.

3. Presence of mold

Paneling is susceptible to water damage just like the walls, ceiling, and siding to which it is attached.

As was indicated before, this includes the existence of mold, which is facilitated by the presence of hidden leaks behind the buildings. The next section of this article will teach you how to repair water damage after you’ve familiarized yourself with the warning signs of water damage on paneling.

Steps In Fixing Water Damaged Paneling

Step #1. Examine

Find out how bad the water damage is to the wood paneling in your walls. Is the laminate peeling away? Does the wood peel or does it warp?

As you evaluate the condition of your paneling, think about the following. After that, you should take photos of the water damage and then call your insurance company.

For the purposes of filing an insurance claim, it is important to document the full extent of the damage. The assistance of your attorney in your claim would be facilitated as well by this.

After gathering this information, it’s a good idea to consult with your insurance carrier and legal counsel to ensure you’re properly covered. This will help you determine if your house insurance will cover the water damage that has occurred.

Step #2. Remove and sand

After assessing the situation, you should take the necessary steps to have the damaged pieces of your wood paneling removed. Take off the laminate panels and scrape off the glue. The next step is to sand the area so the wood filler would stick better.

Step #3. Apply epoxy resin

Before using epoxy wood filler, make sure the laminate is completely dry. Wood filler should be mixed thoroughly before being applied. The next step is to spread it across the area and let it dry.

Step #4. Re-attach

The laminate can be reattached to the wood paneling after the gaps have been filled. Make sure the glue is applied evenly and smoothly.

The construction should then be held in place with painter’s tape. Wait for the glue to dry before proceeding.

Step #5. Sand and seal

For the sealant to properly adhere to the patched area, you need sand it down. Finally, finish by sealing the wood with a clear coat.

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5 Tips to Care for Your Indoor Wood Paneling

Regular Dusting

The nooks and crannies of your carved wood paneling are a prime location for dust accumulation. Dusting wood paneling should be part of your regular cleaning practice.

Once every few months, take it a step further and vacuum the paneling carefully with the delicate tip of your wand vacuum.

Occasional Washing

The maintenance of wood paneling is complicated further by the presence of high humidity. The beautiful wood paneling you have inside your home can quickly deteriorate if exposed to moisture.

That being said, always dry the wood paneling as you go when cleaning it.

Wood paneling can be easily cleaned with a sponge, some warm water, and a light dish detergent. Maintain a pail of clean water and a spare sponge close by so you can quickly rinse the paneling as you go. Make sure each area is completely dry before going on to the next.

Spot Cleaning

The wood paneling in your home will eventually collect more than just dust. However, it’s not a good idea to use a powerful cleaning on your wood paneling as a whole.

Instead of using water, scrub the crayon stains, oil, or other buildup using a tiny amount of mineral spirits. To protect the wood’s finish from mineral spirits, operate in a well-ventilated location and immediately wipe up any messes.

Oiling

Wood paneling should be oiled twice or four times a year, depending on the relative humidity in your home. Lemon oil or any other furniture oil will do the trick.

Oiling your paneling can give it a beautiful gloss and protect it from drying out.

Pest Inspections

One major drawback of using wood in building is that it is often attacked by insects. Inspecting your wood paneling on a regular basis can help ensure its continued security.

This will help you identify an infestation early on, before it becomes out of hand and before the pests inflict permanent damage to your expensive wood paneling.

Keep Your Indoor Wood Paneling Looking Like New

Indoor wood paneling is vulnerable to a number of issues, but this can be minimized with the right maintenance. You can easily keep an eye on your wood paneling by adding the above measures to your regular home care routine.

Early detection of pest infestations is crucial. So, keep a look out for termites and other wood-destroying critters every week while you dust.

FAQs

How do you reverse water damage on wood?

Dry out wet areas. Put a thick, clean towel on top of the stain to start. Press over the towel for several seconds with a dry iron set to a low or medium heat setting (taking care to keep the soleplate off the wood). Heat of this sort is just right for warming the finish to the point where moisture can be drawn off into the towel.

Does water damaged wood need to be replaced?

Wood that has been substantially deformed (especially flooring), wood that has begun to decay, and wood that has mold or mildew growth on it all need to be replaced. Damaged boards should be pryed apart and the area under them cleaned thoroughly before being replaced.

How do you fill holes in paneling?

Plug Openings and Fissures Apply spackling or caulk with a putty knife to seal any gaps around nails. Discard any surplus. Let dry until a firm consistency is reached. If your paneling contains groove lines, you can make the surface easier to paint by filling them up with caulk using a caulking gun.

Can I use wood filler on paneling?

Filler Compound May Be Employed. Instead of caulk, use a wood filler compound to repair any gaps in your paneling. When applying wood filler to walls, do it with a putty knife. Putty should be smoothed out as much as possible and then left to dry overnight. If there is any excess putty, you can sand it down and get rid of it.

How do you repair water damaged veneer?

Carefully cut open the blister with a razor knife to restore the veneer. The next step is to apply yellow carpenter’s glue under the veneer using a glue syringe or a toothpick. Gently apply pressure to the blister to help the glue spread. Wax paper and a flat wood block can be used to conceal the repair before the blister is clamped flat to prevent further damage.

Does homeowners policy cover water damage?

Coverage for unexpected or accidental water release in your home should be included in your property insurance policy. If your water line bursts or one of your appliances overflows or leaks, you will be covered. You are also protected if water damage occurs because a hole in your roof or walls was caused by hail or high winds.

What is epoxy wood filler?

Exactly what is the definition of an epoxy wood filler? It’s a filler used to cover up flaws like dings, scratches, and cracks. It is also a reliable adhesive, making it one of the few fillers available. It’s useful for fixing broken wood since it produces a strong connection and has unique structural features.

Can I paint over fake wood paneling?

When compared to other wall surfaces, painting laminate wood paneling is a breeze. Getting paint to stick to the smooth laminate surface requires a special method. It doesn’t take long to transform a room that’s been neglected with a fresh coat of paint from antiquated and dreary to fresh and contemporary.

How do you gray wash wood paneling?

Combine water and paint to make a thinner. Mix one part grey paint to one part water in a five gallon bucket. The solution should have the consistency of runny pancake batter. To thin the mixture, add water until the ratio of grey paint to water is 1:1.5.

Removing/repairing buckled paneling.

Can you use joint compound on wood paneling?

Skim coating is a method used by drywall finishers to cover up outdated wood paneling and smooth out uneven walls. Joint compound, sometimes known as mud, is an option, but only if the paneling is de-glossed first.

Can you put plaster over paneling?

If you have wood paneling and don’t want to remove it, you may simply apply an old plaster finish over it. It can also be used on drywall and vinyl panels.

How much does it cost to panel a room?

How much it should cost to have wall paneling installed, on average across the country Materials: The Average Across the Nation Square-footage pricing. 300 square feet of roofing costs an average of $1.88 per square foot to install (including labor and supplies). To the tune of $1,604.64 (including labor and materials), the national average price for a three-hundred-square-foot $1,277.23 – $1,932.05.

How do you glue wood paneling to a wall?

Use panel adhesive and finishing nails to fasten the paneling to the wall. A tube of panel adhesive should be loaded into a caulking gun and used to apply a little dot of glue to the wall every 10 inches or so. Just stick the panel to the wall and press it down into the glue.

What wood should I use for wall paneling?

The most popular type of wood paneling for interior walls is medium-density fibreboard (MDF).

Conclusion

After experiencing water damage, it is only natural that you would wish to restore the wood paneling in your home, as it serves multiple purposes. We hope you might find some useful information here on repairing water damaged paneling.