Wall panels have become the most cost effective way of changing the aesthetic of any living space within your home. There is a broad range of wall panels which may be used to suit your needs. The direction of the panels are fixed to the walls and should be decided based on the other furnishing and decorative features they will be complimenting.
Natural Wood
Pros
- You have a wide variety of wood to choose from: oak, cedar, maple, alder, rosewood, teak, mahogany, ebony etc.
- The Panels made of natural wood can be easily painted, polished or strained ti match the theme of the room or just give a new look.
- These panels are easy to repair and replace.
- Being available in different sizes and shapes, offers customization.
- Environmentally friendly.
- Fixing and installation of wood panels are simple and easy.
- They offer good thermal and acoustic insulation.
cons
- Panels made out of natural wood are neither water proof nor rot proof.
- They are not fire-resistant.
- They are vulnerable to termites, if not treated chemically.
Medium-density fiberboard (MDF)
pros
- It takes paints and stains very well.
- It is budget-friendly.
- Comes in varying thickness textures and finishes.
- It is environmentally friendly.
cons
- it is neither water-resistant nir moisture resistant.
- It can collapse under heavyweight.
- It does not hold nails and screws well.
- Most often it requires a thick plywood base.
- It takes more time and effort to install.
PVC Panels
Pros
- These panels are waterproof and hence they are ideal for bathrooms and kitchens.
- Cleaning and maintenance is easy.
- These panels are durable and long-lasting.
- They are light in weight and have a smooth surface.
- They are easy to cut and work on.
- Installation is quick and easy.
- Do not attract dust.
- They are fire resistant.
- Panels are soft, flexible and come in a multitude of colours.
- They are economical and easily available.
Cons
- it is difficult to treat the scratches if they happen.
- If handled roughly, it easily the suffers damages.
Fabric Panels
Pros
- These panels give a softer and smoother feel to the walls.
- They offer good acoustic insulation and hence their preferred areas of use are theatres.
- Their installation is quick and fast.
- Easy to procure.
- extreme care has to be taken to prevent scratches and tears on their panels.
- Cleaning and maintenance is difficult.
Gypsum Boards
Pros
- These panels are high on strength.
- They are long-lasting.
- They are fire resistant and hence ideal for office and commercial buildings.
- They offer good acoustic insulation.
- Installation is quick and easy.
- They are cost effective.
Cons
- They are subject to temperature and humidity fluctuation.
Chipboard
pros
- relatively cheap - Can be procured easily - Three different kinds, normal, medium and high density all varying in thickness, cost and ease of installation and effort.
cons
- It is relatively less strong.
- It is subject to temperatures and humidity fluctuations, and therefore it. serves satisfactorily only in dry areas.
