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Installation

The Panel Haus: Your Complete Guide to Installing Wood Wall Panelling

Wood wall panelling instantly adds style, warmth, and character to any space—be it a feature wall, ceiling, or full-room transformation. And with The Panel Haus’ user-friendly designs, you don’t need to be a seasoned pro to install them.

In fact, many of our panels are DIY-friendly, making them a cost-effective way to elevate your interior without the need for expensive tools or tradespeople.

Suitable Surfaces for Panelling

Our wood panels are incredibly versatile and can be installed on a wide range of surfaces, including:

  • Drywall

  • Brick

  • Cement board

  • Plywood

  • Tile

  • Lath and plaster

  • Existing wood surfaces

Whether you're using adhesive or screws, the key is a clean, dry, and structurally sound surface. Be sure to repair any damaged plaster or loose tiles before you start.

Tools You Might Need

Depending on your chosen installation method and panel type, you’ll likely need:

  • Tape measure

  • Spirit level

  • Pencil

  • Construction adhesive & caulking gun

  • Drill or screwdriver

  • Hammer or nail gun

  • Finish nails or screws (2")

  • Electric saw, jigsaw, or handsaw

Let the Panels Acclimatise

Before installing, bring the panels into the room where they’ll be installed and leave them flat or strapped together for 48 hours. This helps them adjust to the temperature and humidity for a better long-term fit.

Surface Prep & Painting

Make sure the installation surface is dry, level, and dust-free. If you're only partially panelling a wall, it’s best to paint the surrounding area beforehand to avoid messy touch-ups later.

INSTALLATION METHODS

Option 1: Adhesive Fixing (Glue-On)

Step 1: Prepare the wall
Remove baseboards, nails, or trims and clean the surface.

Step 2: Measure & Plan
Calculate the number of panels needed by measuring your wall's height and width. Account for openings like doors or windows.

Step 3: Dry Fit & Trim
Use a level to align the first panel. Dry-fit the layout and trim any edges with a fine-tooth saw.

Step 4: Apply Adhesive
Use grab adhesive or construction glue in a zigzag pattern across the back of the panel. Press into place and tap gently with a rubber mallet if needed.

Note: For the Reclaimed range, adhesive and nails are recommended for the first board.

Option 2: Screw-On Installation

Step 1: Prep the Wall
Smooth the wall surface and remove any fasteners.

Step 2: Acoustic Panel Prep (If Needed)
Mount timber battens and place insulation between them for maximum soundproofing.

Step 3: Cut Panels to Size
Mark and cut with a saw as needed.

Step 4: Screw in Panels
Screw panels directly into the battens or wall, depending on the range.

Screwing into Timber Battens

When fixing panels into battens:

  1. Prep Battens: Sand and clean.

  2. Drill Guide Holes: Align the panel holes with the batten locations.

  3. Secure Panels: Drill through both layers with screws. Use wall plugs if necessary.

Tip: For clean finishes near corners, measure and trim the final panel for a flush fit.

Cutting Panels

Choose the right tool for your cut:

  • Circular Saw: Great for long, straight cuts. Use a guide board and fine-tooth blade.

  • Handsaw: Ideal for small adjustments or outlet holes.

  • Sabre Saw: Perfect for detailed cuts—use with caution for straight lines.

Working Around Fixtures

For a professional finish around sockets, windows, or fixtures:

Electrical Outlets & Switches:

  1. Mark the opening on the panel by pressing it against the installed fixture.

  2. Drill pilot holes in corners.

  3. Cut using a jigsaw or coping saw.

  4. Leave a 1/16" expansion gap around the edge.

Windows & Doors:

  1. Measure the area and mark cut lines on the panel.

  2. Extend cut lines by 1/4" for easier fitting.

  3. Use a jigsaw or sabre saw for clean cuts.

Hiding Wires

To create a clutter-free look behind your wall-mounted TV or media unit:

Option 1: Decorative Frame

  • Build a light wood frame behind the TV.

  • Paint or wallpaper it, cut a cable hole, and mount your TV.

  • Hide wires behind the frame.

Option 2: In-Wall Cable Routing (Stud Walls)

  • Cut a hole behind the TV and another low on the wall.

  • Feed wires down behind the plasterboard.

  • Use cable boxes for a neat finish.

  • If you hit a stud, create an extra access hole.

Important: Mark and cut any required holes in your panels before adhering them to the wall.

Option 3: Chasing Wires into Brick Walls

  • Requires chiseling channels into brickwork.

  • Use trunking for protection, then plaster and decorate.

  • This is best left to a qualified electrician.

Final Touches

  • Stagger boards for a natural look (especially for Reclaimed styles).

  • Wipe down the surface post-installation.

  • Add edge trims or finishing caps if needed.

Need help choosing the right product or installation method?
Get in touch with The Panel Haus team—we’re happy to guide you every step of the way.