Can you remove wall paneling without damaging the drop ceiling in your basement?
Asked by Umang Pai 
2 months ago
Last Updated: October 21, 2024
Hey, does anyone know if it’s possible to remove wall paneling without damaging a drop ceiling? I’ve got some broken pieces in my basement and I’d like to give it a little update without having to take down the entire ceiling.
Cutting the luan paneling along the ceiling grid may be challenging, but it can be done.
That would be absolutely terrible! Take your time and do it correctly.
It won’t work if you insist on “doing it right”
Perhaps you should give it a try! If done correctly, you wouldn’t even realize the paneling was there. Maybe it’s above your level of expertise.
That’s a ridiculous idea. Do it properly or don’t do it at all. Taking down the ceiling is much easier than cutting around the edges. It would be quicker to remove and replace it than to cut it. Seriously.
Back at it! Seems like this is beyond your expertise. This is a do-it-yourself forum. The original poster is inquiring about alternatives to removing the ceiling channel! No wonder you are still single!!
I specialize in ceilings. Working with them is much simpler compared to cutting paneling.
Use a multi-tool
Lift up the tiles on the wall and take a look.
Put drywall on top of that, you know?
Simply remove the corner trim of the grid and then take out the panels. Replace with new corners for the grid. They are quite inexpensive.
Here, I’m looking to swap out the old paneling for new bead board paneling. Can a corner piece help me with this by keeping the ceiling grids intact during the removal process?
When you take down the grid, make sure to wire up the 12′ main runners to the joists. Remove the 2-4′ edge pieces and the middle of your ceiling will float on the wires, allowing you to easily remove and reinstall the paneling.
Use a multitool to carefully work along the edge. Consider adding a small crown moulding to cover the space between the ceiling grid and wall.
So is thinking about cutting along the ceiling grid and putting up new walls/panels?
It would be much easier for to just remove the wall mold and replace the paneling. Plus, his method is incorrect.
Didn’t know you were installing Wainscot. If you trim the paneling flush, the new one will fit perfectly. You can even angle the blade slightly to avoid the grid. I wouldn’t recommend removing the wall track, as it could cause damage to the tiles and grid pieces.
You definitely have to take down the ceiling. Trying to keep it up will result in significant damage to the ceiling.
If you really don’t want to remove the ceiling, try using a multi tool to cut along the ceiling grid all around the room.
Are you planning to switch to drywall? You can use a multi-tool to cut along the edges and carefully remove the paneling. The drywall will provide structural support around the edges.
It’s possible to do, but it’s definitely not a simple task.
The paneling measures 1/4 inch. It’s best to leave it and install drywall all the way up to the ceiling using J-channel. There’s no real benefit to taking down the paneling.
Inspect how the ceiling is connected to determine the best approach. If you’re lucky, you might be able to remove and reattach the perimeter system.
Are you skilled with an oscillating tool? Make sure to tape the ceiling grid to avoid any scratches.
Start by removing the first row of tiles and grids properly. It will result in a better appearance and save time. Believe me, taking shortcuts like that never pays off. You’ll end up damaging things, working at a slower pace, and messing it all up.
Consider removing the edge band to carefully detach the panel. Unfortunately, the grid will end up being the same length as the width of the paneling. Not a big deal if it’s 1/4″ or smaller, but a major setback if larger.
Cut the panels at 4ft length and install PVC shiplap boards or panels horizontally. This way you can avoid the ceiling altogether and have a waterproof product on the wall as well. It’s paintable and won’t deteriorate. Win-win.
Is unfamiliar with PVC shiplap. Where can I buy it? Have a photo?
Mentioned that Home Depot actually sells it.
Install 1/4 inch drywall over the paneling. Use tearaway bead at the top near the wall channel.
Cover it with Sheetrock gently.
Just paint over it?