How to install V-Groove Paneling (beadboard)(plank)

Sep 6

I love the plank paneling look. It is everywhere. In fact, I have it on my kitchen ceiling.

The ceiling is made up of MDF sheets with a V-groove scored every 6".

I decided to give my basement entry the same treatment.

Here is the "before"

B-O-R-I-N-G...and a bit depressing. It was also too dark.

So, I purchased this

Packages of MDF V-Groove Plank Paneling. They are 8' long and over 5" wide. Since it is Tongue-and-groove, it will go together easily.

My tools

Other materials I used

1x1 & 1x2 MDF trim

First, decide where you want to start. I started in the most noticeable place. The first few rows are the straightest. Hide the imperfections of your walls or ceiling in areas that are not in your common sight line.

Next, decide how you want to handle corners, starting places and stopping points. This is where I used the MDF trim.

For a modern take, I decided to run the planks horizontally. Here is what I did

Attach the 1x2 trim to the wall

add a bead of glue

using a level, make sure it is perfectly straight

and nail!

Now you are ready for your first board

adding glue to the back of every board, place the board on top of the 1x2

check for level, and nail. Let the glue do most of the work, don't over-nail. This will save you time in puttying.

continue

checking for level every few boards.

Here is how I handled the unusual angles

draw a level line on the wall (notice handrail on right)

hold a scrap piece of plank up to the line. with a straight edge resting along the angle (handrail)

draw the angle. Make the practice cut, and test. When you are happy with the cut, use the real plank for the final cut.

Another look at the "before" & "after"