How to Prep 70 Year Old Birch Paneling to Install Revive Peel-and-Stick RV Wallpaper Kit

Updated 05/03/2026 | Published 04/30/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Revive Peel-and-Stick RV Wallpaper Kit - 100 sq ft - 50' x 2' Roll - Crisp Linen

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$212.03

Question:

Just bought a 1954 Shasta 1400 almost complete rebuild description says smooth clean surfaces, how do you suggest prepping 70 year old birch paneling, if I sand it smooth it will shred whats left, i’ve primered the walls and ceiling only need 100’50roll for two half walls. Will it stick to primer? Or should I paint it first, which paint will work best gloss, eggshell, satin? Vintage campers have terrible surfaces inside and out. please advise. Thank you

asked by: RJ

Expert Reply:

Hey RJ, congrats on your new camper. To install the Revive Peel-and-Stick RV Wallpaper Kit item # GR33FR over 70 year old birch paneling you'll want to make sure you fill in any groves and thoroughly clean the panels. You can use degreaser to clean the panels and joint compound/drywall mud to fill in the groves or any gaps.

Then you'll want to completely cover the birch paneling with a oil based stain-blocking primer or shellac not paint. Depending on how smooth the surface is afterwards you may need to install some blank wallpaper horizontally. This will prevent any of the texture or groves from showing through when you're ready to hang the Revive Peel-and-Stick RV Wallpaper Kit item # GR33FR.

expert reply by: Jerred H