[wMw]

Thanks for the advice, Orion. I was afraid that's what I would learn...that the Masonite wasn't worth keeping. In the one room where my brother ripped out the buckled cheap paneling it was hiding a wall of horizontally placed boards. My brother thinks that we should sand the boards and poly them, but they were never intended to be visible so they have some good sized gaps. And where the seams were between the sheets of paneling the boards have a swath of dark stain...kind of odd. I'd guess that might also be what is behind the Masonite.

I like your idea of one wall at a time...that's probably the way to go. And I do like the look of pine. it might brighten up this dark living room. That would mean learning a new tool...never have played with a nail gun.

I've never done any wiring so if there are problems uncovered in that department I'd have to find an electrician...That means I'll be back here asking for recommendations. Haven't been here long enough to have any good contacts.

It's all such a learning experience...this old house!