installing wooden wall panels

How to install wood-effect slatted wall panels

by Lisa King in News

Adding slatted wooden wall panels to your walls can instantly transform an interior space. The combination of soft wood tones, contemporary slats, and their organic, nature-inspired look adds a touch of natural elegance and subtle depth — perfect for minimalist designs.

And the benefits don’t stop there. As well as being a stunning design feature, our wall panels also offer acoustic benefits as the slats are mounted on a dense felt backing panel, helping to soften sound and enrich the acoustic atmosphere of your space.

slatted wood-effect wall panels

Are wooden wall panels easy to install?

Yes, by following the installation instructions carefully, fitting slatted wall panels is a straightforward task for anyone with good DIY skills and the right tools. In just a few hours, you can transform your walls with beautiful, wood-effect panelling.

How do I install your wooden wall panels?

The installation of our slatted wall panels is a clean, quick and easy process using commonly available tools. The panels can be fixed to your wall using any PU high tack adhesive, and they can be easily cut to the desired size using a fine-tooth hand saw or jigsaw. 

What tools do I need?

To achieve the best results when installing your wood wall panels, we recommend having the following tools available:

Tape measure – for accurate measurements.

Pencil or marker pen – to mark cutting or fixing points.

Fine-tooth hand saw or electric jigsaw – to cut panels to size.

Spirit level – to ensure your panels are perfectly straight.

Silicone gun – for applying adhesive evenly.

What preparation do I need to do before I start the installation?

We always recommend opening each box of panels and removing all packaging at least 24 hours before installation. This allows the panels to acclimatise to the room where they will be installed. Keep the room at a normal, stable temperature during this time.

Before installation, make sure the wall surface you are applying the panels to is straight, smooth, dry, and free from dust. Proper wall preparation will help ensure the panels adhere securely and achieve a flawless finish.

What is the best orientation for my panels?

Our slatted wall panels can be installed vertically, horizontally, or diagonally, depending on the visual effect you want to achieve. Before cutting any panels, decide on your preferred orientation.

It’s a good idea to hold a few panels against the wall in different directions to see how each layout will look in your space to help you confirm your choice before starting the installation.

installing wooden wall panels

How do I cut the wall panels?

Cutting the wall panels is quick and easy. Simply measure and mark your required dimensions on the back of the panel, then cut along the marked line using either a fine-tooth hand saw or an electric jigsaw for a neat finish.

Always cut with the decorative face of the panel facing downwards. In other words, the slatted front should be against the floor. This helps prevent any surface chipping and ensures a clean, professional edge.

Installing wall panels with adhesive

We recommend installing the panels using a PU high-tack adhesive, which will provide a strong and reliable bond between your wall and the panels.

Apply a continuous 8mm - 10mm bead the full length of the panel, every 5cms across the board to ensure an even coverage ready for the panel to be pressed into place.

Installing wall panels with mechanical fixings and glue

For added strength and security, you can also secure your slatted wall panels to the wall using black wide-head flange screws and a suitable wall anchor system appropriate for your wall type, whether solid masonry, plasterboard, or another substrate.

When using both adhesive and fixings, always apply the adhesive first, then secure the panel to the wall with flanged-head screws.

If you’re unsure which wall anchors to use, it’s best to seek advice from a local professional to ensure they’re suitable for your wall type.

Take care to avoid drilling or screwing into electrical cables or water pipes. Tools are available that can detect hidden wiring and pipes to give you extra peace of mind.

How do I install the panels around existing wall sockets?

When installing slatted wall panels around electrical sockets or other fixtures, simply measure the position of the socket on your wall, transfer the measurements to the back of the panel, and cut out the opening using a jigsaw.

Take extra care when working near electrical sockets. If necessary, seek guidance to locate any hidden wires within the wall before drilling or cutting to avoid accidents.

Can I hang pictures, TVs and other items to my wall panels?

Yes, but if you plan on hanging TVs or decorative items on your panels, you should always wait at least 24 hours after installation before hanging anything to allow the adhesive to set fully.

installing items on wood wall panels

The fastenings supplied with the brackets or fixings of the item you are planning on hanging to the panels must be able to go through the complete slatted wall panel, and it's also extremely important the anchor has the correct depth into the substrate behind the panel. By following this guidance you are ensuring the significant weight you would like to hang is supported by the wall behind and NOT the panel itself. 

Always pre-drill holes through both the MDF slat and the black woven backing felt to avoid damage and ensure a secure installation.

If in doubt, call in a professional!

While our guidance can be followed by anyone with competent DIY skills and the right tools, if you’re unsure, hire a professional installer experienced with wall panelling. They’ll ensure your panels are fitted to the highest standard and safely secured with the correct fixings, with full consideration for any hidden electrical cables or plumbing.

Whether you choose to install them yourself, or have an expert handle it, by following our guidance, in no time at all you will be admiring your beautifully clad walls, adding a contemporary, natural wood aesthetic into your room.

slatted walnut wall panel

Ready to find your V4 wood-effect wall panels?

Start browsing the range of colour tones available in our wall panel collections and order free samples of your favourites for fast UK-wide delivery straight to your door.

Once you've decided which tone of wall panel is right for your home, you can buy our slatted panels direct from our online store for fast delivery to your home.

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