Wall Paneling

Wainscoting

Any decorative wood panels that are on the lower half of a wall are referred to as wainscoting. Wall panels usually wrap around the entire room, and are made up of a panel and a frame. Wainscoting in a general term, but the exact type depends on the type of panel that is used.

Back in the 1300’s, wainscoting was originally used as a protective barrier against damage and to provide insulation. While it still does serve those purposes, it is also a decorative style choice. One popular trend is two-tone wall panels, with a different color on the panels and the wall to create a nice contrast.

Beadboard

Beadboards are narrow, vertical panels that sit side by side along the lower part of a wall. The panels are attached by tongue and groove, spaced evenly apart to create a nice pattern. While beadboards are usually created using long planks, you can now purchase big sheets that mimic the panels, for easier installation.

Shiplap

Although the name usually refers to the paneling on the exterior of a property, shiplap panels have made their way inside homes too. These horizontal siding boards overlap each other to create an interior design element. Unlike beadboard which uses tongue and groove connections, shiplap is joined with an overlapping rabbit joint, which creates a 90 degree gap between boards.

Board and Batten

Board and batten is a more dramatic and traditional style of wood paneling used since the 19th century. It involves wide panels, or “boards”, that are attached with thin vertical strips, or “battens.” The battens were used to create a more secure siding and hide the seam. Board and batten was originally used to construct the siding of houses, but is now used inside as well.

No matter which style of wall panels you choose for your property, it’s hard to go wrong. These wall coverings are a timeless aesthetic, and with the option to repaint they can revamped when the mood strikes. Contact DI Repairs to help create and install the wainscoting of your dreams.