Dark wood paneling with deep grooves was popular back in the '60s and '70s. It was everywhere -- from kitchens and baths to basements and rec rooms. But while adding a natural wood tone to any room, it also created the ambience of a cave by absorbing natural light. Today the style is light and airy. But if your home is dark and scary, you don't have to endure expensive remodeling. You can easily paint or wallpaper your old paneling instead. First wash the surface with a solution of TSP. Protect your eyes and wear rubber gloves. Then use a shellac-based primer sealer and fill in the grooves with spackle. Sand lightly and seal with more primer. If you plan to paint, add a spray texture and finish it with a quality latex or oil-based paint. If you want wallpaper instead, add lining or blocking paper first then the decorative paper. And that's the On The House tip for today.