There’s beauty in beadboards!

Learn how to install a beadboard from start to finish

Beadboards add a beautiful vintage feel to any home. Learn how to install a beadboard with our easy to follow guide. We’ll explain basic installation techniques, and point you to the right glue for the job.

How to install beadboard paneling: Preparation

Beadboards are commonly seen in kitchens and bathrooms, but this versatile paneling can be installed in every room of the house. The creative DIYer even uses beadboards to build a faux headboard for a bed, or to line bookshelves. Beadboards cover entire walls and ceilings, but can also be installed below the chair rail as wainscot. The possibilities are endless!

The first step is deciding how much beadboard you need for the project. Once you have measured and purchased the beadboard, it’s time to plan the layout. Here are some important tips for success.

  1. Measure and mark the walls where the board should go. Consider baseboards and electrical outlets as you plan. You might need to cut out additional holes for electrical outlets or door frames.
  2. If used for wainscoting, measure and mark the chair rail and baseboards.
  3. Cut the beadboard, and pre-fit parts to make sure everything lines up correctly.
  4. Paint or stain the beadboard before installation.

Beadboards typically come in 8-foot panels, which covers standard room height. If you’re wainscoting, you’ll need panels to measure 32’ inches in height, or 1/3 of the room height.

How to put up a beadboard: Step-by step

Now that you’ve measured, cut, painted, and pre-fitted, you’re ready for installation. Here’s how to install beadboard paneling over drywall…

  1. Clean and dry the walls and back of the beadboard.
  2. Apply adhesive in a zigzag pattern across the back of the board.
  3. Flip the board over and fix along the pre-marked lines.
  4. Repeat the process until all beadboards are in place.
  5. Attach molding and/or trim to the top and bottom of the panels.

Floors and walls have a tendency of being uneven. Before you begin instillation, pre-fit your paneling and check for gaps.

How to install beadboards: The right glue

For a glue designed to hold beadboards, pick up Loctite Power Grab Express Molding & Paneling. This paneling adhesive also fills gaps, making it ideal for uneven walls. It has zero second grabbing power, but allows you 15 minutes for repositioning. It’s paintable, and has been awarded an indoor air quality certification by Greenguard, leaving no toxic fumes lingering in the air.

Want to get started right away?

Here’s where you find the full assortment of Loctite adhesives for beadboards as well as all your DIY home improvement projects. 
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