Comments on: Is it wise to hang drywall over paneling that has plaster walls behind the panels?

By: dandyrandywhitetruck

dandyrandywhitetruck — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 02:42:59 +0000

just screw it right to the panel, anywhere you want. it is not necessary to locate studs. glue the back of the paneling and use wood screws.
References :
25 years commercial carpenter

By: frenchcountryplus

frenchcountryplus — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 02:28:59 +0000

Removing the paneling as suggested will cause more damage to the lath and plaster under it. This is due to the fact that most paneling is hung using paneling nails as well as glue. If gutting the room is not in your budget then by all means go with your initial plans. I have done this in several homes where finances were tight. In most cases things turned out nice. In a couple since the rooms were not square the ceiling and walls were a bit wavy where they met. A quick fix for that is crown molding or a decorative border.
References :
Professional interior decorator for 21 years.

By: quality r

quality r — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 01:55:59 +0000

The easiest and cheapest way is to cap or install new sheetrock over the top. Make sure to correct any wiring or plumbing issues before hand. This is a very common practice. You will have to add or install new trim on doors and windows.
Good luck and happy rocking
References :
remodel contractor

By: uclueletbc

uclueletbc — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 01:35:59 +0000

I’d just hang it over everything your going to have to widen the door and window jams….I’d use a 1/2 drywall and not the 1/4 inch to get the stiffness…use screws to attach the board…hammering all nails could break the plaster….alot of waste material if u tear everything down
References :

By: Diane A

Diane A — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 01:21:59 +0000

In this instance, it would probably be worthwhile to spend a little more upfront and do it right than cheap now & re-do later. I agree with the other poster–can you not remove the panels and patch the plaster? Plastered walls are a much better product than drywall in any case. But to just cover up what’s there with drywall could be very problematic–water damage, inappropriate tensile strength to the wall for hanging things, panels warping, termites. If you did this you would also have to disclose this when you sold as its a non standard construction. You would also have problems with casings and electrical connections as the walls will be thicker than standard.
References :
Interior designer

By: Christina A

Christina A — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 01:11:59 +0000

Can you not just remove the panelling and patch the plaster behind? if not I suggest removing it all and replacing with drywall. You have no idea whats going on behind the panels and it could get a whole lot more costly down the road. We had panelling in our basement and ripped it off and plastered the holes.
References :
home diy experience