[AntonyMullen]

Hi, I have a couple of questions about installing MDF wall panelling.

Firstly, a bit of research suggests that I'll be best using a combination of adhesive and screws to fix them to the wall. The wall is bare plaster though, and I understand that grab adhesives don't stick well to bare plaster. Would a grab adhesive be ok on the plaster if I do a mist-coat of watered-down emulsion first?

Secondly, I'm using strips of MDF to create the illusion of large panels. For this reason, the wall and MDF both have to be painted the same - but I don't understand how that's possible when I need emulsion for the wall but you're not supposed to use emulsion on MDF?!

Thanks in advance for any advice!

[JeanMcaleer]

I would imagine that there's an awful lot of mdf skirting glued to bare plaster on new builds up and down the country and I'm certain I've probably done it myself. Whether that's a problem I honestly don't know. The mdf panelling I've done tended to be on older properties where the walls have been previously painted however in at least one I had to scrape a flaky surface first where some of the paint was loose. I shouldn't think a mist coat of emulsion will do any harm in your case.
I've tended to use pins rather than screws in just the same way as skirting is fitted only using screws in the more awkward situations. Pi s are much less obvious and easier to fill than screws. What I have tended to do is face the wall with mdf , usually 6mm or 12mm and then place raised areas on top of that. In your situation you could use screws if you wish under the areas covered by your strips. I tend to use a dowel on external corners to form a bead mould.
As to painting it I've found customers have generally gone for something different to the walls either in colour or finish but if you wish to use the same paint for both then I would prime it first either with a specfic mdf primer or something like zinseer bullseye and then coat with your emulsion.

[KetyElly]

I’ve worked with MDF wall paneling before, and honestly, it’s pretty solid for the price. If you're looking for something smooth and easy to work with, it's a great choice. The sheets are usually 4x8, which makes them easy to handle and cut down to size. It's a bit heavy, so make sure you've got some help lifting them, especially if you're doing large walls. You can paint them to match whatever vibe you're going for, which is a huge plus. The only thing to remember is that MDF can absorb moisture, so it’s not great for bathrooms or super humid areas unless you seal it well. But for living rooms or bedrooms, it’s a win! If interested, check out these MDF wall paneling sheets 4x8 for some ideas.