Slat wall panels are a modern way to transform any wall into a design feature. With their clean lines and customisable layouts, they blend seamlessly into spaces ranging from contemporary living rooms to industrial-style garages. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist display, a warm wood finish, or a bold statement wall, slat panels bring both order and style to your space.
If you’re aiming for a polished look, the key is making sure everything gets installed the right way. It’s not just about sticking them on -it’s about taking the time to line things up properly so you don’t end up with gaps, crooked edges, mismatched patterns, or pieces that don’t hold. In this guide, we’re going to walk you through the process step by step to give you the best chance at a clean, professional-looking finish that actually lasts.
What tools do you need to install slat wall panels
Before we discuss how to install these panels, you need to ensure you have all the necessary equipment to complete a professional-looking installation. Below we’ve compiled a list of the necessary tools for this job:
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Pencil or marker pen
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Fine-tooth hand saw or an electrical jigsaw
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Spirit level
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Silicone gun
Installing slat wall panels
Installing slat wall panels is a clean, quick and easy process, making them a great DIY project for homeowners who want to save money and enjoy a quick home transformation.
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Preparing to install your slat panelling
Before you begin installing them, there are a few things you’ll need to do beforehand. First, you need to calculate the number of panels needed, and to do this, wall measurements must be taken. Use our handy measuring guide to help with this. Once you’ve got the measurements, use our wall panel calculator to figure out how many panels you’ll need.
Once you have your panelling, it’s best to leave the slat panels in the room where they will be installed, prior to installation, for 24 hours to equalise their temperature with the ambient temperature of the room. This allows them to reach equilibrium and minimises potential stress on the panel which reduces the chances of cracking, warping and other damages during mounting.
When they have adjusted to the temperature, ensure that you clean the wall thoroughly, wiping away all dust and dirt. Make sure that after cleaning, the walls are fully dry before installing.
The last thing to do in the preparation stage is to check the level of the wall and ensure your wall is completely flat, and take out any of the outer housings of sockets and contacts.
Note: Slat panels can be placed horizontally or vertically to suit taste and needs, so before putting them up, think about which way you’ll be placing them.
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Cutting slat wall panels
Slat panels are luckily very easy to cut. Simply mark out your required measurements on the back of the panel, and cut along the marked line using either a sharp, fine-tooth hand saw or an electrical jigsaw.
Note: Panels should be cut with the front of the panels facing down (the decorative side) and should be cut along the back.
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Applying sealants and adhesives to your panelling
Panels should be applied with a reliable and high-quality solvent-free adhesive, such as this Pink Grip Adhesive, which will ensure an instant, strong bond between the wall and the slat panel. Apply adhesive to the back of the panel in straight strips all down the back of the panel, every 5cm.
Solvent Free Pink Grip Adhesive C4 Size - White - £3.99
Tip: In order to use less adhesive and prevent overflowing, we recommend snipping off the tip of the adhesive tube.
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Installing your slat wall panels
Now you’ve got everything in place, the actual installation part is easy. Panels should be installed from left to right OR from bottom to top (depending on your desired orientation). Luckily, most slat wall panels are light and easy to work with.
After securing the first panel, you’ll want to use your spirit level to check the horizontal or vertical alignment and ensure it’s straight. You can then continue to add the next panel. As you go, you should be making sure there’s no gap between the panels before pressing down and securing it to your wall, as well as checking the alignment for each panel.
Installing slat panels around sockets
If you are installing slat panels over existing sockets, you will need to cut out a space for sockets and fixtures alike on the slat panels using a jigsaw. For this, you’ll need to measure the socket and draw where to cut it on the panels. Make sure you also measure how far from the floor and the side it is, so you cut it out in the right place.
For the proper installation of a socket, you need a correct electrical box. All you need to do is install a spacer ring on an existing electrical box - this will allow for the cables to run the depth of the panel safely. The socket can then be screwed directly into the panels and wall to support the fixture.
How to screw and hang decorations onto slat panels
Once your slat panels are up and secure, shelves, cabinets, hangers, and TVs can be hung on your slat-panelled walls using screws. You’ll have to wait through a 24-hour period before you do this to give the sealant proper time to dry and secure the panelling properly.
Fastenings must be fixed to the substrate under the panel, so ensure the screw goes through the panel and into the solid wall behind, not just into the hollow slat space. Be sure that the hole is made in the slats that are sticking out and not the inner structure of the panel.
For heavier items such as TVs and cabinets, you should ensure you are screwing through the panels and into the wall behind, so that the solid structural wall is supporting the weight and not the slat panel alone.
If you find you need more help installing your slat panels, then watch your dedicated video below for more guidance.
Types of slat panelling
Slat wall panels are a very versatile choice and come with a wide range of benefits for your home. Not only do they offer warmth, texture and depth to your space, but they can be used in many different ways. A few different types of slat panels and the ways you can use slat panels include:
Water-resistant slat panels - water-resistant slat panels can be used in your kitchens and bathrooms as they’re created to endure high humidity. This allows you to add 3D textures to any space in your home.
Acoustic slat panels - acoustic slat panels are perfect for home offices and for drowning out unwanted noise. They can also help reduce echo, making them as functional as they are stylish.
Exterior slat panels - if you’re looking for a solution for the outside of your home, then exterior slat panels are the perfect option. They take away the hassle of replacing weathered wood and fixing chipped paint, and provide a durable and long-lasting solution for your exterior.
Grab high-quality slat panelling with The Panel Company
With careful preparation, accurate measurements, and proper fastening, slat panelling can be installed to deliver both visual appeal and long-term durability. By following each step, you can achieve a clean, uniform result that enhances the functionality and aesthetics of the space.
If you’re ready to dive into your DIY project, then grab some premium slat panelling to ensure a professional-looking finish. Browse a wide range of styles to help elevate your home right here at the Panel Company.
