Wainscoting is a type of decorative paneling that has been around for centuries. It adds character and charm to any room, and is often used to protect walls from scuffs and scratches.
But what exactly is wainscoting made out of?
Traditionally, it was made of solid wood, but these days, there are many other materials available, including plywood, plastic, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF).
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of wainscoting and the materials they’re made from. So if you’re considering adding wainscoting to your home, keep reading to learn more!
What Is Wainscoting Made Out Of
Wainscoting can be made out of a variety of materials, depending on your preferences and budget. Traditionally, wainscoting was made of solid wood, such as quarter sawn oak, which offered a beautiful natural grain that could be stained to shine through most colors. However, solid wood wainscoting is the most expensive option.
Today, many companies sell paneling that has a solid wood veneer applied to a manufactured wood panel. While not true solid wood, these panels give you the real wood look at a lower cost. If you’re committed to wainscoting that’s solid wood all the way through, your best option is to order directly from a small supply company.
In addition to solid wood, wainscoting can also be made from plywood, plastic, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). These materials are less expensive than solid wood and can be painted in a variety of colors to match any home’s interior design elements.
The History Of Wainscoting And Its Purpose
Wainscoting has a rich history dating back to the 16th century in England. Originally, it was used as a practical solution to cover up dampness in the lower part of walls caused by improper insulation, plumbing, and poor drainage. The paneling was made of oak, imported from Russia, Germany, or Holland, and was hung with paintings or armor. Over time, wainscoting became less of a moisture-hiding band-aid and more of an element of prestige.
During the 18th century, wainscot paneling was no longer installed as floor-to-ceiling paneling and began covering just the lower half of walls. It was initially functional rather than decorative—adding interior protection and insulation from damp and cold stone walls. However, once people caught on that the look of wainscoting could completely transform a room, they began wanting the panels to stretch even higher. The average height of full paneled wainscoting skyrocketed from 42 inches high to 72 inches high during the 1900s. A lot of homes built during this era have dining rooms with near floor-to-ceiling wainscoting. This is one way to transform a dull dining room into something worthy of an English manor even today.
Today, homeowners may choose to install wainscoting for visual appeal alone. It adds an element of warmth and elegance to any home decor. While wainscoting was originally made of solid wood, it can now be made from a variety of materials such as plywood, plastic, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and even cloth or marble in the past.
Traditional Wainscoting Materials: Solid Wood
Traditional wainscoting is typically made of solid wood, which offers a beautiful natural grain that can be stained to shine through most colors. This type of wainscoting provides an elegant and timeless look that is perfect for traditional homes or those with a classic aesthetic.
Solid wood wainscoting is the most expensive option, but it is also the most durable and long-lasting. It can withstand wear and tear and can be refinished or sanded down if it becomes damaged over time. Solid wood wainscoting is also ideal if you want a stained wood look, as it offers a natural and authentic appearance that cannot be replicated by other materials.
While not true solid wood, many companies sell paneling that has a solid wood veneer applied to a manufactured wood panel. These panels give you the real wood look at a lower cost than true solid wood wainscoting. However, it is important to note that these panels do not offer the same durability and longevity as solid wood wainscoting.
If you are committed to wainscoting that is solid wood all the way through, your best option is to order directly from a small supply company. This will ensure that you get high-quality, authentic solid wood wainscoting that will last for years to come.
Modern Wainscoting Materials: Plywood, Plastic, And MDF
Modern wainscoting materials have expanded to include plywood, plastic, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). These materials are less expensive than solid wood and offer a wider range of design options.
Plywood wainscoting is made of thin layers of wood that are glued together to create a strong and durable panel. It’s a popular choice for those who want a natural wood look without the high cost of solid wood. Plywood wainscoting can be stained or painted to match any interior design style.
Plastic wainscoting is made of PVC, which is a durable and moisture-resistant material. It’s an excellent choice for bathrooms and kitchens where moisture can be an issue. Plastic wainscoting comes in a variety of colors and styles, including beadboard and raised panel.
MDF wainscoting is made from wood fibers that are compressed together with resin and wax to create a strong and smooth panel. It’s a popular choice for those who want a painted finish since MDF has no visible grain. MDF wainscoting is also less expensive than solid wood and can be used to create intricate designs and patterns.
While these modern wainscoting materials are not technically considered “real wood,” they offer many benefits such as affordability, durability, and design flexibility. Whether you choose plywood, plastic, or MDF, modern wainscoting materials can add a beautiful and functional element to any room in your home.
Choosing The Right Wainscoting Material For Your Home
When it comes to choosing the right wainscoting material for your home, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, your budget will play a significant role in determining the type of material you can afford. Solid wood wainscoting is the most expensive option, while MDF and plastic are more affordable.
If you’re looking for a natural wood look, but don’t want to break the bank, consider a paneling that has a solid wood veneer applied to a manufactured wood panel. This option gives you the real wood look at a lower cost.
Another factor to consider is durability. If you have children or pets, you may want to choose a material that is more resistant to scratches and dents. MDF and plastic are both durable options that can withstand wear and tear.
Lastly, think about the style and aesthetic of your home. If you’re going for a rustic farmhouse look, beadboard wainscoting made from plywood planks may be the perfect fit. If you prefer a more modern look, PVC panels can add interesting textures and design elements to your walls.
Ultimately, the choice of wainscoting material depends on your personal preferences and needs. Consider your budget, durability requirements, and desired style to choose the perfect wainscoting material for your home.
DIY Wainscoting: Tips And Tricks For Installation And Maintenance.
If you’re considering installing wainscoting yourself, there are a few tips and tricks that can help make the process easier and more successful. First, it’s important to use a level to ensure that your tops and bottoms are straight. This will help you achieve a professional-looking finish.
When attaching the wainscoting to the wall, it’s best to use a brad nailer instead of traditional nails and a hammer. This will save you time and effort, and also require less hole filling. If you do use nails, be sure to label your cut pieces as you go so you don’t lose track of where they belong.
If you encounter gaps between the wainscoting panels, simply fill them in with caulk and smooth it out with a wet cloth. This will give your wainscoting a seamless appearance.
When installing longer pieces of wainscoting, it’s helpful to have two people working together. Glue the pieces first, then attach them to the wall using finishing nails and a nail gun. Be sure to hit a stud for a secure hold.
For maintenance, it’s important to fill any nail holes as necessary, but using caulk instead of nails can help reduce the number of holes needed. If your walls are wavy or uneven, use a stud finder to avoid placing multiple holes in your walls.
Overall, DIY wainscoting can be a rewarding project that adds both style and protection to your walls. With these tips and tricks, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will enhance the beauty of your home for years to come.