How to Install Acoustic Wall Panels

Our acoustic wall panels are designed for easy installation, but it takes time and patience. Making sure you properly prepare walls, account for outlets, and plan the placement beforehand helps you achieve the best results.

Learn how to install our acoustic wood wall paneling onto walls and over or around skirting. See the full step-by-step guide or watch our installation video below.

Step 1: Gather Essential Tools and Materials for the Installation

Gather your tools and materials for the acoustic wall panel installation.

If you're screwing acoustic wood wall panels, you'll need:

• Measuring tape
• Fine-tooth or sharp saw
• Masking tape
• Sandpaper
• Black screws
• Battens (optional)
• Level
• Hand drill

If you're gluing acoustic wall panels, you'll need the following installation accessories:

• Wall paneling adhesive
• Adhesive gun
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Masking tape
• Fine-tooth or sharp saw
• Sandpaper

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Step 2: Prepare and Clean the Wall Surface

Start by cleaning the wall surface with a dry cloth to remove any dust and dirt. Once you've removed this debris, wet a rag with a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap to remove grease and oil. Wipe the wall with a wet rag to remove any leftover soap, then allow it to dry completely.

Cleaning the wall surface is especially important if you're using adhesive to install regular and wide slat wall panels.

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Step 3: Plan the Placement

Before installing wood wall paneling for a bedroom or living room, plan the placement of each panel so you know how they're going to fit on your wall. You can use a pencil to mark lines for each panel or sketch a design on paper. Remember to account for obstacles, such as electrical outlets and switches.

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Step 4: Measure and Cut the Panels

4a. Measure the width and height of your wall.

4b. Mark the cutting lines on the panel with a pencil and masking tape.

 

 

4c. Use a fine-tooth or sharp saw to cut the panel along the marked lines.

 

4d. Sand the cut edges of the panel until smooth.

You'll also need to measure and cut holes for electrical outlets and switches if you're installing wood paneling behind the TV, in a kitchen, in a home office, or in other areas with wall fixtures. You can use an oscillating saw to cut the wood paneling and a utility knife to cut the felt backing. Sand the edges where you made the cut for a smooth finish.

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Step 5: Install the Acoustic Panels Over or Around the Skirting

If you're installing on top of the skirting board, the panels will only need to be cut to the top of the skirting, not the whole wall height.

We recommend installing the panels above skirting to protect the panels from knocks and scratches.

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Step 6 (Optional): Install Battens for Better Acoustics

6a. Install battens across the wall, in 30cm increments for the best sound absorption. We recommend 45mm thickness for the best sound absorption, but the final thickness is up to you. This is because battens help create an air gap, which softens sound waves and provides a space to install additional insulation.

6b. Use a level to ensure the battens are straight and evenly spaced. Screw them into the wall.

 

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Step 7: Attach the Acoustic Wall Panels to the Wall

You have two choices when installing acoustic wood wall panels: screws or adhesive. We'll walk you through how to attach panels to your wall using both methods.

Installing acoustic wall panels with screws

7a. Hold the panel in place on the wall.

7b. Drill holes through the felt into the battens. We recommend starting with three holding screws in the middle, then at the top, at the base, and then as needed to keep the panel flat.

Installing acoustic wall panels with adhesive glue

If you're installing straight into the wall, you can use adhesive glue.

7a. Apply glue evenly in a zigzag pattern along the length of the panel.

7b. Press the panel firmly against the clean wall, holding it for 30 to 60 seconds.

7c. Optionally, use two or three screws to secure the panel to the wall until the adhesive is dry.

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Step 8: Repeat the Process Until Complete

Repeat the steps above until you're finished installing your wall panels or wood ceiling panels. Wall panels are available in different sizes, so the number of panels you need will vary. You can also cut panels to size to simplify acoustic wall panel installation.

 

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Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Acoustic Wall Panels

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results when installing acoustic panels. Here are some of the most common mistakes first-time installers make:

• Failing to properly sketch and lay out the wall before installing wall panels
• Installing wall panels on uneven surfaces
• Overlooking finishing touches like sanding and applying finishing oil
• Not using a level to properly align wall panels for a consistent finish
• Failing to use the proper number of screws or using the wrong adhesive

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Acoustic Wall Panel Installation: FAQs

Do you glue or screw acoustic wall panels?

Acoustic wall panels can be attached to existing walls with glue or screws. If you're using glue, choosing the right adhesive is crucial. If you're attaching panels with screws, you can screw them directly into the wall or use wood battens for superior soundproofing.

What is the best way to hang acoustic panels?

The best way to hang acoustic panels depends on what you're trying to achieve. Using adhesive or screwing panels directly to drywall is the easiest way to install them. If you're looking for maximum sound absorption, you can screw panels to wood battens and fill the resulting gap with insulation.

Why do my acoustic panels keep falling off the wall after installation?

Acoustic panels can fall off the wall after installation if you don't use enough screws, don't allow adhesive to dry, or choose the wrong adhesive.

How can I install acoustic wall panels without damaging my wall?

You can install acoustic wall panels without damaging your wall by attaching panels to a separate frame or board and attaching that frame to the wall using hook-and-loop fasteners. These can be stapled to the wall to minimize damage.

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Ready to Install Your Acoustic Wall Panels?

Installing acoustic wall panels is simple when you choose panels that are specifically designed for quick and easy installation.

Wood Veneer Hub has easy-to-install acoustic wall panels in several styles and colors, so updating your bedroom or living room is a breeze. Browse our collection or order wood panel samples to get started today.