What Is Beadboard, Wainscoting, and Other Types of Wall Paneling? 

Do you know the difference between beadboard and wainscoting? What about shiplap and board-and-batten? You aren’t alone if you can’t tell the types of paneling for walls apart. Because there are so many styles, paneling terms are confusing for most homeowners. Here are the most common types of wall paneling if you’re looking to remodel your living room, dining room, or bedroom. 

8 Common Types of Wall Paneling

While there are many different types of wall paneling, they are the most common styles that remodelers use today. 

1. Beadboard Paneling

Beadboard is a classic type of paneling with vertical boards separated by grooves every one to two inches. This paneling style gets its name from the distinctive raised bead pattern in the groove. Once installed one board at a time, most beadboard paneling comes in four- or eight-foot sections for easier installation.

2. Board and Batten Paneling

Another classic paneling style, board and batten paneling uses wide divider boards to create a grid pattern. The batten divider boards are usually four to six inches wide and spread anywhere from eight to twenty-four inches apart. 

3. Flat Paneling

Flat paneling is a modern style that highlights the wood grain or pattern of the material. Other than the grain, the boards themselves are usually simple. However, the seams create most of the style and visual interest. While this type of paneling comes in squares and rectangles, it is available in many different geometric shapes, like diamonds and hexagons. 

4. Panel Boards

Also called vertical board paneling, panel boards are large sheets for easy installation. While panel boards come in many styles, most originate with the classic 1970s and 80s wood panels. That said, modern panel boards are a cost-effective way to remodel on a budget. 

5. Raised Panels

Raised panels have a distinctive decorative rectangular pattern using molding to create depth and texture. Although most commonly used for wainscoting on the lower half of the wall, you can install raised panels on the entire wall. 

6. Shiplap Paneling

While technically the style of joint, shiplap paneling is known for its unique stair-step edge that locks the boards together. Known for its distinctly rustic look, shiplap paneling is eight to sixteen inches wide and typically installed horizontally. 

7. Tongue and Groove Paneling

Tongue and groove is a specific woodworking joint where boards lock together. However, it has also come to represent a particular type of paneling known for its decorative style. Often installed horizontally, tongue and groove paneling ranges from two to six inches wide. Although similar to class wood paneling, the board edges have a distinct bevel. 

8. Wood Paneling

Classic wood paneling types vary in material but are usually four to eight inches wide. While oak boards were common in the 1930s and 40s, knotty pine became the standard throughout the 50s and 60s. Since then, it has come in various styles and materials, including wood composites and even non-wood substitutes. Most types of wood paneling are installed vertically, but horizontal and geometric patterns are available. 

What Is the Difference Between Wainscoting and Wall Paneling?

The difference between wainscoting and wall paneling is the height of the boards. Wall paneling covers the entire wall, while wainscoting covers only the lower half or third of the wall. Also, wainscoting often features a chair rail. 

What Is Wainscoting?

Often mistaken as a type of paneling, wainscoting is a decorative feature where panel boards cover only the lower portion of the wall. Many wainscoting installations feature raised panels or beadboard paneling, but you can use any panel style you like.