Wall panels are a great and innovative way to add depth and character to a modern home. Their sleek nature and simplistic elegance have made them a popular choice for homeowners' renovation projects.

From Victorian elegance to modern minimalism, wall panels can dramatically transform any room. Today, Beesley and Fildes will guide you through the installation process for slat wall panels.

Whether you’re a frequent DIYer or a beginner, we will break down the steps, ensuring a smooth and efficient installation. For high-quality building tools and materials, browse our products here.

What Are Slat Wall Panels?

Slat wall panels are panels with a series of uniform slats cut into them. They are made from materials such as Wood, PVC, and metal for a durable fit.

This blends functionality with aesthetics, featuring horizontal or vertical grooves for a detailed wall. Hooks, shelves, and bins can be attached to these slats for creative freedom.

Types of Slat Wall Panels

PVC Slat Walls: PVC slats are durable and resistant to moisture, ideal for garages and bathrooms.
Wooden Slat Walls: These offer a warm and natural look, serving well in living rooms and dining areas. Wooden slats can be stained or painted to match any decor.
Metal Slat Walls: Metal slats provide great strength and durability, ideal for an industrial or rustic interior.

Wood panels require occasional re-treatment to prevent moisture damage, whereas PVC and metal panels require simple dusting and cleaning.

Tools and Materials Checklist

Measuring tape
Fine-toothed or circular Saw (if cutting is required)
Jigsaw
Drill and screws
Stud finder and marker
Straight edge and pencil
Level
Wall anchors (for non-stud mounting)
Slat wall panels

PPE: Ensure to keep yourself protected with safety gloves and goggles. This will prevent any debris from entering your eyes or injuring your hands on sharp tools.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Wall Panels

Once you have gathered the necessary materials, follow the steps below for an efficient installation.

1. Prepare Your Walls

Measure the height and width of the area where you will be installing the wall panels. Decide whether you want to create an illusion of height with vertical slats or an illusion of space with horizontal slats.

Once you have decided, clean the surface of your wall with a dry cloth to remove dust and dirt. Then, use a stud finder to locate areas on your wall where you can securely mount your wall studs. Mark these areas with a marker.

2. Measure and Cut the Panels

Based on your previous measurements, use a pencil and a straight edge to mark the cutting lines on your panels.

If necessary, cut your panels to fit into the area with a fine-toothed or circular saw. With the decorative side facing up, align the blade with the marked line, sawing slowly for accuracy and safety.

If you need to cut your slats to fit around obstacles, such as plug sockets, measure the location of the outlet and mark it on your panel before cutting. Then, use a jigsaw to cleanly cut around the area so that the panel slots snugly around the obstacle.

Lightly sand the panels after cutting to remove any sharp edges or roughness.

3. Install the Panels

When placing your first panel, mark a straight line across the wall with a level as an installation guide. Then, pre-drill holes in the panels that align with the wall studs.

Use screws that are suitable with the material of the wall, drywall screws for drywall or wood screws for wood, ensuring they're long enough to penetrate the studs.

Start by securing one screw at a top corner of the panel, then proceed to add more screws along the top, working your way down. Tighten each screw by hand or with a screw drill bit for a secure fit, ensuring each screw is driven into a stud.

For tongue-and-groove systems, align and connect each panel as you go for a seamless finish. Once all of the panels have been installed, use a level to check for evenness.

4. Apply the Finishing Touches

For a durable installation, apply silicone sealant or caulk to any gaps or edges between the slat panels. This is especially beneficial for bathrooms and kitchens with high moisture levels.

Then, decorate your wall with shelves and hooks to store books and ornaments. This will tie in the interior for a personalised look.

Invest in High-Quality Wood Slate Panels with Beesley and Fildes

At Beesley and Fildes, we want the best for your home.

That is why we sell beautiful wooden slate panels in designs such as oak and walnut to complement any interior. Our wall panels will elevate the space, adding elegance and character to any room.

Our eco-friendly panels are easy to install and offer high-level sound absorption for an efficient home. Browse our products today for a home you can rely on.