Wood Paneling Options to Modernize Your Kitchen Walls
With its warmth, texture, and natural beauty, wood paneling can transform the look of tired, dated kitchen walls. From tongue and groove boards to faux wood wallpaper, there are many options to consider when using wood for a kitchen makeover.
Real Wood Panel Styles for Kitchen Walls
Tongue and Groove Boards
Tongue and groove panels feature interlocking boards with a "tongue and groove" edge design. This traditional cottage-style look is a relatively easy DIY install. The boards are milled with a protruding "tongue" on one edge and a grooved "groove" on the opposite edge. The tongue of each board fits into the groove of the next board, creating a tight join.
Pros of tongue and groove planks include a timeless, classic aesthetic. Potential downsides are that moisture can cause warping, requiring diligent sealing. Costs range from $$-$$$ depending on the wood type used, such as pine, cedar, fir, redwood, or oak.
Shiplap
Shiplap refers to wide wood planks with angled grooves visibly showing the joint between boards. This style has a rustic farmhouse or coastal cottage vibe. Pros and cons are similar to tongue and groove. Installation runs around $$ per square foot. Good wood types are pine, poplar, and oak.
The prominent grooves create strong lines and visual texture. Shiplap adds vintage character to kitchens, especially paired with open shelving and distressed cabinetry.
Reclaimed Wood Planks
For a truly unique look, reclaimed wood planks repurpose old barn boards, wine barrels, fencing, or other salvaged lumber. The wood has imperfections like nail holes, adding to the rustic warehouse aesthetic.
While beautiful, sourcing reclaimed materials can be challenging. Installation requires precise cutting to flatten uneven boards. Thus, costs tend to be $$$. Types commonly used include barn wood, chestnut, and redwood.
Faux Wood Panel Options
For budget-friendly alternatives to real wood, faux panels offer the look without the higher price tag and potential installation hassles.
PVC Faux Panels
Basic PVC faux wood panels made of plastic or PVC molding cost little and resist moisture. On the downside, the wood grain pattern tends to look less realistic than other faux options. Top brands are Art3d, Wayfair, and Hampton Bay.
Vinyl Faux Wood Planks
Vinyl planks coated with a special layer offer a more convincing wood grain look. While costs run slightly higher than basic PVC at around $$ per square foot, the durability exceeds plastic panels. Top vinyl faux wood brands are KERDI-Board and Driftwood.
Faux Wood Wallpaper
Self-adhesive wallpaper printed with wood plank images allows transforming walls overnight. While this offers the quickest facelift, seams may be visible on close inspection. Leading brands include Brewster, Roommates, and Graham & Brown.
Accent Wall vs Full Wall Wood Paneling
One approach is selecting just one kitchen wall for wood accent paneling. This creates a textured focal point while minimizing budget and installation work. Another option is full wood walls on multiple surfaces for a cohesive, surrounding effect.
In small kitchens, all-wood paneling can feel too enclosed or dark. An accent wall draws the eye while bouncing light around the room. Evaluate your goals and space to decide between wood accent wall vs. full wood walls.
Tips for Maintaining and Cleaning Wood Kitchen Walls
Proper care keeps wood kitchen walls looking like new. Avoid excess moisture and promptly clean up spills to prevent warping, swelling, and stains. Use sealants to protect the wood.
For cleaning, dust with a dry microfiber cloth or soft brush. Avoid abrasive cleaners. With periodic maintenance, your wood paneled walls can stay beautiful for years to come.
The natural beauty of wood never goes out of style. From sleek modern planks to reclaimed barn boards, wood paneling offers endless ways to upgrade your kitchen's aesthetic. Weigh the pros, cons and costs of real wood versus faux options.
Whether you selects tongue and groove boards or faux shiplap, wood paneling brings warmth and elegance to any kitchen. Use it sparingly on an accent wall or go bold with full wood walls. With proper prep and care, you can easily maintain wood's striking, contemporary look.