There are many different types of wainscoting, each with their own unique style and price. This article will explore six popular types and how they differ from one another.
We’ll also talk about how to choose the right wainscoting for your home. Read on to learn more.
Different Types of Wainscoting
The table below has a comprehensive list of wainscoting types and their average pricing in the US.
| Wainscoting Type | Average Price per sq.ft. |
|---|---|
| Flat panel | $7-$20 |
| Beadboard panel | $7-$20 |
| Board and batten panel | $7-$20 |
| Shiplap panel | $7-$20 |
| Raised panel | $10-$30 |
| Decorative panel | $10-$40 |
1. Flat Panel
The most basic type of wainscoting is a flat panel. If you like a minimalist aesthetic, this flat, basic panel is the one for you.
There are no ornaments, beveled edges, or rims on it. It also complements most interior designs well.
Price: $7-$20 per square foot.
2. Beadboard Panel
Beadboard panel is the most popular wainscoting type. It is a panel with an outer frame and grooved inner frame. One of the most popular designs for beadboard wainscoting is vertical-lined panels.
This type looks especially nice in kitchen settings, whereas horizontal beaded panels are more common in formal rooms such as dining rooms and living rooms.
Price: $7-$20 per square foot.
3. Board and Batten
Another popular type of wainscoting is board and batten panel wainscoting. This type of wainscoting features vertical planks known as boards that are covered by a batten.
The boards can be installed in either a horizontal or vertical direction, depending on the preference of the customer.
Boards and battens can be installed on most types of walls because they do not require furring strips to help them adhere to the wall.
Price: $7-$20 per square foot.
4. Shiplap Panel
The next type of wainscoting is known as shiplap panel wainscoting. This type of wainscoting features a distinctive style with vertical planks that are installed perpendicular to the wall.
The boards will also have spaces in between them, which can be finished simply or in a decorative manner.
Price: $7-$20 per square foot.
5. Raised Panel
Raised-panel wainscoting is also very popular and can be used to cover the lower section of a wall.
Unlike flat panel and board and batten types, raised-panel wainscoting features decorative panels that are installed in a sequence.
The panels have decorative molding that typically features curves or other ornamental detailing. Raised-panel wainscoting is available in a variety of different wood species, such as oak, mahogany, walnut, and teak.
Price: $10-$30 per square foot.
6. Decorative Panel
Decorative panel is a type of wall covering that includes ornamental elements or patterns. The main difference between a decorative panel and other panels is that the decorative panel has ornamental detailing in it.
This type of wainscoting is typically made from a wood like panel mounted on the wall and uses a faux finish that is applied over the panels.
This type of panel is commonly used in living rooms for decorative purposes as it can be painted to create a more custom look.
Price: $10-$40 per square foot.
How to Choose The Right Wainscoting Style?
There are no strict guidelines for selecting the proper wainscoting profile, but as a rule of thumb, you may select wainscoting that complements both your décor and wall construction.
Flat, board-and-batten or other profiles with horizontal lines will match better on decorated walls with horizontal lines while beadboard wainscoting is more suitable for a non-decorated wall.
Below are some question you should ask before choosing what type of wainscoting to choose. All these questions will help you narrow down what type of wainscoting is best for your home.
1. Do you want a simple design or more detailed?
The first step is to consider the type of wainscoting you want. It’s important to figure out what kind of look and feel you want your home to have.
For example, do you prefer a more traditional approach or would you like something that would provide a more modern style?
2. How much is your budget?
The cost of wainscoting is determined by many variables, including the type of material you choose and the size of the area in which it will be installed.
The premium wood are generally more expensive, and certain types are quite affordable. So, keep your finances in mind.
But you can get a cheaper price if you go the DIY way. I have made the step-by-step guide in this post.
3. What material do I want?
When choosing wainscoting material, there are several options to choose from including wood, vinyl and composite materials.
You can also select a material based on its durability, looks, and price.
4. What’s your wall type?
All wainscot types cannot be installed on all walls, so it’s important to make sure that the material you select is suitable for the surface on which it will be attached.
For example, if your wall has a bumpy finish or an uneven texture, choose profiles that can hide these irregularities.
5. How much is the room size?
When choosing wainscoting for a room, it is important to consider the size of the room. If the room is larger, you will need more boards. This means that it will cost more money.
It’s also crucial to understand the space measurements before you choose to build your own wainscoting so you can save even more money.
6. Do you want a natural wood or painted?
Generally, there are two types of wainscoting. One is natural wood and the other one is painted.
When choosing wainscoting, you should decide what kind you want and if it will be natural or painted.
Some wainscoting is natural wood. Some is painted. If you are going to paint your wainscoting, you have to decide if you want to be able to see the wood or paint it all over and make it white so that there is no wood.
