Wall paneling might bring up memories of shag carpets and lava lamps but with the right eye it is actually a fantastic way to spruce up your home. You can add paneling to almost any part of your home, and it’s a simple addition that can make a huge impact. This includes walls, ceilings, doors, and even closets. Due to its popularity throughout the years, there are many great design options to choose from. Let’s take a look at some wall paneling choices available to you.
Shiplap
Shiplap is one of the most popular and sought-after types of wall paneling, it is a solid and classic design option. Shiplap uses wide boards that overlap each other to create a tight seal, secured by nails. You really can’t go wrong with this choice. There are so many different ways of incorporating this versatile paneling into your home. Material wise, you can use boards, planks and/or panels. There are many finishes used on shiplap, including stain, paint, or a natural finish, so choose your preference.
Nickel Gap
Nickel Gap paneling is similar to shiplap but differs in the boards used. Unlike shiplap, it doesn’t require being connected through nails, but uses tongue and groove boards. This is another great option for updating your space.
Here is a quick tip to save you time and headache. If you decide to finish your shiplap or nickel gap with paint or stain, remember to paint or stain between the boards before placing them on your wall. This tip negates the tedious task of hand finishing between your boards.
Wainscoting
Wainscoting has also trended and evolved over the years. It is a combination of boards or panels that stretch part way up the wall. People tend to lean toward wainscoting because it enhances the walls with time-honored characteristics. It also provides a number of vast options. Options include flat panel wainscoting, square wainscoting, bead-board wainscoting, and/or raised panel wainscoting. Depending on your preference, you can go with thin wood panels, raised panels or flat panels, and/or square framed panels. Wainscoting can enhance any room, whether it be a living room, dining room, bedroom, or even bathroom.
Wood Slat
Wood Slat paneling consists of narrow horizontal slats or channels, usually wood, metal, or plastic, that run the entirety of the wall. Another beautiful panel option, wood slat is the ultimate declaration piece in a home. It is able to bring in both a modern and classic aesthetic to any room. This is a project you can DIY or purchase from a store in sheets for easy application. If you’re using wood materials, staining is a great option. Many also paint the slats for a more modern appeal. This is a great option to make a statement piece in your home.
DIY Photo Frames
For someone who wants a more unique wall panel option, I have just the alternative for you. A wall of photo frames can make a great statement piece, as well as a great talking piece. An artful wall, can use old photo frames or modern picture frames, depending on your style, preference and desirability. This is more of an unconventional approach to wall paneling, but it’s perfect for someone looking to push the boundaries in home design.
Let us know what you think of these wall panel options and if you would consider updating your home with these alternatives. Drop us a comment or share with a friend. You can also reference our previous blog post, 5 Easy DIY Projects, for other easy to tackle home projects.
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