How to Install Faux Brick Paneling

When designing my boys’ room, I wanted to create a sophisticated baseball-themed room that would grow with them. This faux brick panel wall helped me hit that vision out of the park. Let me show you how to do a faux brick panel wall in no time. This is a simple project that you can easily tackle. 

We’ve done several brick projects before, like the thin brick accent wall we did on the stairs and in the entryway, and I’ve shared the tutorial with you. This time I wanted to use a faux brick panel to offer another brick-like option that’s a much easier and quicker DIY. Chad was a mason by trade, so he wasn’t too sure about faux brick at first. But I am so glad these faux brick panels a try, and he actually was too. We were both very impressed with how realistic the brick looks. It gave this room an elevated ball park vibe that my boys love. Let me show you how easy it is to install faux brick paneling on an accent wall. 

Supplies

• Faux Brick Paneling, this is from Ninthandvine. The brick color I used is Brownstone. 
• Miter Saw
• J roller
• Jigsaw if you need to cut around outlets
• Table Saw
• Outlet Spacers (if needed)
• Brad nailer (optional)

What is Faux brick Paneling?

Faux brick paneling is an adhesive MDF board that looks like real brick, but it is much thinner and easier to install. 

You are going to love the faux brick paneling. It comes in different colors and has so much texture and coloring throughout the pieces. It is super easy to work with. You can cut it with a saw because it is MDF, and the adhesive is super sticky, making it an easy project. 

How to Use Faux Brick Paneling on the Wall

• To begin, you will want to cut off about 4.25 inches on the left side for a straight left wall edge. Once you do that, you will want to start at the bottom left corner and work your way over along the wall from left to right. 
• Before laying the brick paneling on the wall, you will want to do a dry fit to ensure it fits. After you ensure it fits, remove the adhesive and set the panel in place at an angle before pressing down firmly on it. Use a J roller to help apply the pressure needed. 

• For the right side edge, measure from the bottom left of the panel to the wall and make a straight cut. 

• After you complete the first row, you will move on to the second row of paneling on the wall. You will want to cut that same 4.25 inches off the left side to make a nice clean edge. Since the paneling has two rows of brick, it will create a subway pattern for you. 
• Be sure you continue to do a dry fit with each new piece and then place it at an angle, and then use the J roller to secure it in place. 
• The bottom of each panel has a grout joint. The top does not; it has a lip. So as you move from row to row, the bottom grout line of each panel sits on the lip of the panel below it. 
• When you get to the top row, you may have to rip the panels down with a table saw if they don’t fit. You will want to measure in multiple places because most ceilings are not level. 

Tips, Tricks, and FAQs

• The panels are numbered on the back 1, 2, 3, 4. I did 1, then 2, then 3, then 4. The most important thing is that you don’t have all the 1s together or 2s together etc., so you get that color variation you are hoping for in the faux brick paneling. 
• These panels are designed to be installed from the bottom up, thanks to the grout at the bottom.  
• The faux brick is made of MDF. It does not do well with moisture and is for interior use only. 
• If your wall is not completely flat, some of the paneling may have a hard time adhering to the wall well. You can use a nail gun to help secure the panels in place if you have any issues.

Does the faux paneling snap together?

No, the faux brick paneling doe not snap together, but the pieces do fit together perfectly. 

How do I cut around outlets with the faux brick paneling?

If you need to cut the brick paneling to fit around outlets, you will want to mark on the brick where the cuts need to be made. Then you will want to use a jigsaw to cut it out. Once the cut is made, remove the outlet cover and bring the outlet out to place on top of the brick. When doing this, be sure the power is turned off to the plug. 

Can you hang art on the faux brick wall?

Yes, you can hang art on the wall. 

Can I use a nail gun to install it?

The backs are super sticky, but yes, you can use a nail gun if you choose. 

There you have it! How to apply faux brick paneling! This project took me two days to accomplish. I know that you can tackle this project over the weekend! And if you love video tutorials, you can watch them here in my tutorial on Instagram! Be sure to tag me on Instagram in your finished projects so I can see how amazing they are! #howwedoandyoucantoo