How Much Does It Cost to Install Wall Paneling?

Wall paneling installation typically costs between $3,000 and $4,500, with most homeowners paying around $3,600 for a standard 12×12-foot room. The cost per square foot ranges from $1 to $40, averaging $20, depending on your chosen material and style.

Basic options like shiplap and wainscoting start at $1 per square foot, while premium choices like decorative overlays can reach $40 per square foot. Labor adds another $0.25 to $3 per square foot, though you can save $100 to $300 by installing simpler styles yourself.

What Is the Average Cost of Wall Paneling Installation?

Installing wall panels can transform your home’s interior design while staying budget friendly. The total cost varies based on several cost factors, including room dimensions, material choices, and labor requirements. Understanding these elements helps you plan your project effectively.

Cost Breakdown for Different Room Sizes

The total square footage of your space directly impacts the total price of wall paneling installation. Installing wall panels typically starts at a lower cost for smaller rooms and increases proportionally with room size.

Additional Costs You Should Know About

Beyond basic material and labor costs, several additional costs can affect your project budget. Surface preparation often requires specialty equipment and materials. You might need new drywall installation, wall repair, or removal of existing wall panels before installation can begin. A pneumatic finish nailer and other right tools may also be necessary if you’re planning DIY installation.

Common Additional Expenses:

• Base molding and trim: $2-$5 per linear foot
• Surface repairs: $200-$500
• Tool rentals: $100-$300
• Removal of existing panels: $0.60-$1.15 per square foot

What’s Included in the Total Price

The total price typically includes materials, labor, and finishing work. When hiring a general contractor, the cost usually covers wall preparation, panel installation, and basic trim work. Some contractors also include ceiling and floor protection during installation.

How Do Wall Panel Material Costs Compare?

Different panel types offer varying levels of durability, aesthetics, and price points. From basic flat paneling to more ornate look options, material selection significantly influences your project’s total cost.

Wood Panel Costs

Wood paneling remains a popular style choice for adding paneling to walls. Traditional wood panels can range from simple horizontal lines to custom design patterns. Custom wood paneling typically features larger panel sizes and offers excellent durability.

MDF Panel Costs

Medium density fiber (MDF) panels provide a modern design alternative to traditional wood. These panels are typically priced lower than solid wood options while still offering good durability. Many wall panel installations now use MDF because it’s both cost-effective and versatile.

PVC Wall Panels

PVC wall panels are ideal for areas prone to moisture. These decorative wall panels are particularly popular in bathrooms and basements. They’re easy to clean and maintain, making them practical for high-traffic areas or spaces where moisture resistance is important.

Specialty Panel Costs

Specialty panels represent the most expensive type of wall paneling. These include raised panels cost, custom designs, and unique material combinations. Different panel types in this category can feature intricate patterns and advanced installation methods, often requiring professional installation.

How Much Do Different Wall Panel Styles Cost?

When adding paneling to your home’s interior design, various panel types offer different aesthetics and price points. The wall paneling average cost varies significantly based on the style you choose, from budget-friendly options to more ornate looks.

Basic Panel Styles (Shiplap, Wainscoting, Flat Panel)

Basic wall paneling ideas provide modern design appeal while remaining budget friendly. Flat paneling and shiplap feature clean horizontal lines, while wainscoting typically covers only the lower half of walls for a classic look.

Shiplap: $1-$30 per square foot

• Popular style for modern farmhouse aesthetic
• Can be installed horizontally or vertically
• Often made from medium density fiber or wood paneling

Wainscoting: $1-$10 per square foot

• Traditional look covering the lower half of walls
• Various pattern options available
• Includes base molding and trim

Flat Panel: $7-$10 per square foot

• Clean, modern design
• Easiest to install
• Cost-effective solution for large wall areas

Mid-Range Panel Styles (Beadboard, Board and Batten)

Mid-range options offer more detailed designs while maintaining reasonable cost factors. These different panel types add sophisticated texture and depth to your walls through various installation patterns.

Beadboard: $7-$20 per square foot

• Features distinctive small grooves
• Can extend from floor to ceiling
• Popular in bathrooms and kitchens

Board and Batten: $7-$20 per square foot

• Combines flat panels with decorative trim
• Creates geometric patterns
• Requires precise installation

Premium Panel Styles (Raised Panel, Overlay)

Premium decorative wall panels represent the most expensive type of wall paneling, offering custom design options and a more ornate look. These styles often require specialty equipment and professional installation.

Raised Panels: $10-$30 per square foot

• Features beveled larger panel designs
• Often used in formal spaces
• Complex installation process

Overlay: $10-$40 per square foot

• Most customizable option
• Allows for unique patterns
• Highest-end finish

What Are the Labor Costs for Wall Panel Installation?

Labor costs vary based on installation complexity and whether you choose professional installation or DIY. Installing wall panels requires careful planning and specific tools like a pneumatic finish nailer.

Professional Installation Costs

When hiring a general contractor, labor costs typically include surface preparation, panel installation, and finishing work. Professional installation ensures proper fitting and alignment of all panel types.

DIY Installation Costs

DIY installation can save on labor costs but requires right tools and basic carpentry skills. The main expenses include:

• Tool purchases or rentals
• Materials for surface preparation
• Trim and finishing supplies

Extra Costs for Complex Installations

Complex projects may involve additional costs for:

• Removing existing wall panels ($0.60-$1.15 per sq ft)
• Installing new drywall if needed
• Special trim work around windows and doors
• Custom cutting for irregular spaces

These installations often require specialty equipment and experienced professionals to achieve the desired finish, particularly with premium materials or complex patterns.

How Can You Save Money on Wall Panel Installation?

While installing wall panels can enhance your home’s appeal, there are several ways to make the project more budget friendly. Understanding where to cut costs without compromising quality helps achieve an attractive interior design within your means.

Material Cost-Saving Tips

Choosing the right panel types and materials can significantly reduce your total cost while maintaining visual appeal. Consider these options for adding paneling without exceeding your budget.

Cost-Effective Material Choices:

• Medium density fiber (MDF) instead of solid wood paneling
• PVC wall panels for moisture-prone areas
• Flat paneling rather than raised panels
• Standard-sized panels versus custom design options

Labor Cost-Saving Options

You can negotiate labor costs with your general contractor by strategically planning the installation process. Many wall panels can be installed in phases to spread out expenses.

Ways to Reduce Labor Costs:

• Remove existing wall panels yourself
• Handle surface preparation independently
• Complete basic trim work on your own
• Schedule installation during off-peak seasons

When to DIY vs Hire a Pro

The decision between DIY and professional installation depends on your skill level and the complexity of your wall paneling ideas. Simple projects like installing flat panel or horizontal lines can be DIY-friendly with the right tools.

Consider DIY for:

• Basic panel installation
• Simple wainscoting (lower half only)
• Flat paneling installation
• Basic trim work

Hire a Pro for:

• Complex decorative wall panels
• Custom design patterns
• Installing wall panels in challenging spaces
• Projects requiring specialty equipment

What Affects the Final Cost of Wall Paneling?

The total price of your wall paneling project depends on various cost factors beyond basic materials and labor. Understanding these elements helps plan your budget accurately.

Room Size and Layout Impact

Your room’s total square footage and configuration significantly influence the wall paneling average cost. Larger panel installations or rooms with many walls require more materials and labor time.

Key Considerations:

• Total wall space to be covered
• Number of corners and angles
• Window and door openings
• Ceiling height variations

Wall Preparation Costs

Surface preparation is crucial for proper installation and affects your project’s total cost. Preparing existing walls may require:

• Installing new drywall
• Removing old paneling
• Repairing damaged surfaces
• Ensuring proper wall stability

Required preparation depends on:

• Current wall condition
• Type of new paneling
• Installation method
• Moisture concerns

Finishing and Trim Costs

Final touches like trim work and finishing can add significant additional costs to your project. These elements complete the look and protect your investment.

Common Finishing Elements:

• Base molding installation
• Crown molding at ceiling
• Corner trim pieces
• Protective sealants or paint
• Special trim around windows and doors

These finishing touches typically add $2-$5 per linear foot to your total cost but are essential for a professional, more ornate look that enhances your home’s interior design.