Raised Panel Wainscoting: An Elegant Choice for the Ready Amateur and Seasoned Pro

 

Raised panel wainscoting is another elegant design option that can be readily incorporated into any living room or dining area. It also adds a touch of character to otherwise bland looking stairwells. Unlike traditional flat panel wainscoting where the surface comes out even, the final result showcases a raised design against flat wood.

 

Like traditional panelling, raised panel wainscoting is done on the lower part of the wall. Usually wainscoting is installed 3 to 5 feet above the floor, below decorative moulding or rails. It is an excellent way to prevent scuff marks and furniture indentations on the wall, especially if the rails are installed to prevent the furniture from leaving walls. Most wainscots also feature a bottom rail, usually of the same material as the top molding.

 

The main difference between wainscoting panels  and raised panel wainscoting is the design. Raised panels feature geometric symmetrical designs or molding strips fixed to the flat panelling. This type of panelling has been popular since the mid 17th century. Classy, understated and definitely eye-catching, it is a wise addition to any room in the house.

 

It used to take hours of labor just to get that look but now you can easily install your own raised panel wainscot. Go crazy with the designs-geometric patterns are a favorite. The important thing to note is that the design must not be cut off in corners so some good measurements will need to be used.

 

Check out the handy wainscot installation guide and wainscoting panels

 

Wainscoting is a great way to add extra insulation and protection to your walls. Once only wealthy families could afford to have a craftsman come in and add this decorative aspect to their home. Nowadays, even the most budget conscious homeowner can easily add wainscoting to any room in the house.

 

Installation kits are available in most home and hardware supply stores that you can easily customize to fit even the smallest corners. The cheapest ones are made from inexpensive beadboard and are great for informal rooms like nurseries or playrooms because they are easier to clean. You can easily do a faux raised panel wainscot by painting trim and installing beadboard below it.

 

Wainscoting is also a great way to update old cabinets and armour with a raised panel wainscot exterior for a classy effect. If you are not looking to undertake a large project but would like to try your hand at finishing carpentry, this is one great way to start.

 

Raised panel wainscoting used to only be done with expensive hardwood, but there are so many materials available these days to match any need. An easy way to do it is to buy a wainscot frame in a design you choose and use a different material for the raised moldings. A great type of material is medium density fibreboard (MDF) which is very easy to work with, stable and cheap. Whatever you choose to work with, raised panel wainscoting can definitely be a great design choice.