Are you looking to add some visual interest and protection to your walls with wainscoting?
Before you dive in, it’s important to know the cost. In this article, we’ll break down the average cost of installing wainscoting in Australia and answer some common questions about this decorative feature.
From the proper height to use, to whether or not it makes a room appear smaller, we’ve got you covered.
So, let’s get started and find out how much wainscoting will set you back in Australia.
How Much Does Wainscoting Cost Australia
The cost of wainscoting in Australia can vary depending on a few factors, such as the type of wainscoting you choose and the size of the room you want to install it in.
On average, the cost to install wainscoting in a 12 x 12 foot room is around $3,600. However, this price can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more depending on the materials used and the complexity of the installation.
For example, if you opt for raised panel wainscoting, which requires a cabinetmaker or joiner to make and install, the cost will be higher than if you choose standard shiplap or T&G board with skirting, a cap rail, and crown moulding.
It’s also important to consider the cost of labour when budgeting for wainscoting installation. If you plan to hire a professional to install it for you, this can add to the overall cost.
What Is Wainscoting?
Wainscoting is a decorative wall treatment that involves covering the lower portion of a wall with panels, usually made of wood. It was originally used as a way to protect walls from damage caused by furniture or other objects, but today it is primarily used for aesthetic purposes.
There are several different types of wainscoting, including raised panel, flat panel, beadboard, and board and batten. Each type has its own unique style and can be customized to fit the design of your space.
The cost of wainscoting can vary depending on the materials used and the size of the room you want to install it in. Wood wainscoting is a popular traditional option that can cost anywhere from $8 to $66 per square foot, while other materials like MDF or PVC can be less expensive. Installation costs also vary depending on the complexity of the installation and whether you hire a professional or do it yourself.
The Benefits Of Wainscoting
Wainscoting is a valuable investment from a design standpoint as it can add value and warmth to your space. It is a wall treatment that not only adds depth and dimension to any room but also creates a unique space that shows off a homeowner’s personality.
One of the biggest benefits of wainscoting is its ability to cover up existing blemishes, dents, or cracks in plaster. Flat panel wainscoting is particularly useful for this purpose as the boards are flat, without the bevelled edges or moulding, making them easier to install on your wall.
Another benefit of wainscoting is that it can add value to your home. Installing wainscoting in your home can increase its resale value, making it a worthwhile investment. In addition, wainscoting can also give your home a more elegant and sophisticated look, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
Wainscoting also provides an opportunity for homeowners to showcase their own personal style. With various materials, types, and sizes of panels available, homeowners can customize their wainscoting to fit their unique design preferences. Shiplap wainscot paneling, for example, offers a rustic or cabin-like feel to the home and is commonly used outside of cabins and cottages.
Finally, wainscoting can be an affordable option for homeowners who want to update the look of their home without breaking the bank. While the cost of wainscoting can vary greatly depending on the material used and the complexity of the installation, there are options available that are more cost-effective than others. Flat panel wainscoting is one such option that can provide a more casual, simple, clean line look at a lower cost than raised panel wainscoting.
The Different Types Of Wainscoting
There are many different types of wainscoting available, each with its own unique style and cost. Some popular options include:
1. Beadboard Wainscoting: This type of wainscoting features narrow, vertical panels with a beaded design. It’s a classic look that works well in traditional or cottage-style homes.
2. Raised Panel Wainscoting: This type of wainscoting features panels that are raised above the surface of the wall. It’s a more formal look that works well in traditional or formal homes.
3. Shiplap Wainscoting: This type of wainscoting features horizontal boards with a small gap between them. It’s a popular look for farmhouse or coastal-style homes.
4. Board and Batten Wainscoting: This type of wainscoting features vertical boards with thin battens covering the seams between them. It’s a rustic look that works well in country-style homes.
5. Flat Panel Wainscoting: This type of wainscoting features flat panels with a simple design. It’s a modern look that works well in contemporary or minimalist homes.
Each type of wainscoting has its own unique cost, depending on the materials used and the complexity of the installation. It’s important to consider your budget and personal style when choosing the right type of wainscoting for your home.
What Is The Average Cost Of Wainscoting In Australia?
The average cost of wainscoting in Australia is around $1,325, or approximately $5.50 per square foot. This cost includes both materials and labour for installing 5-foot-high unpainted solid wood wainscoting in a 12 x 12 foot room. However, the cost can vary depending on the type of wainscoting you choose.
For instance, if you opt for MDF or plywood wainscoting, the cost can be as low as $1 per square foot. On the other hand, if you choose an expensive solid wood or an intricate design, the cost can go up to more than $40 per square foot.
Another factor that can affect the cost of wainscoting is whether you install it yourself or hire a professional to do it for you. Installing wainscoting yourself can save you more than $1,000 from the overall project budget, but this depends on your DIY skills and the complexity of the installation.
Factors Affecting The Cost Of Wainscoting
There are several factors that can affect the cost of wainscoting installation in Australia.
1. Type of Material: The type of material used for wainscoting can significantly impact the cost. Solid wood is the most expensive option, while MDF or plywood is more affordable. Beadboard and imitation types are also cheaper alternatives.
2. Size of Room: The size of the room you want to install wainscoting in will also affect the cost. Larger rooms will require more materials and labor, which will increase the overall cost.
3. Design Features: The design features of the wainscoting, such as raised panels or intricate moldings, can also add to the cost. More complex designs will require more time and skill to install, which will increase the labor cost.
4. Installation Method: The method of installation can also affect the cost. DIY installation may be cheaper, but if you hire a professional, you will need to factor in their labor costs.
5. Location: The location of your home may also impact the cost of wainscoting installation. If you live in a remote area, for example, this may increase the cost due to travel expenses for contractors.
DIY Vs Professional Installation: Which Is Cheaper?
When it comes to installing wainscoting, one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is whether to do it yourself or hire a professional. DIY installation can save you money, as you won’t have to pay for labour costs. Installing wainscoting yourself can trim over $1,000 (CAD 1,350) from the overall project budget. For example, installing around 100 square feet of redwood wainscoting yourself should cost somewhere between $1,000 and $1,800 (CAD 1,350 and CAD 2,400).
However, it’s important to note that DIY installation requires a certain level of skill and experience. If you’re not confident in your carpentry skills, you may end up making mistakes that could be costly to fix. Additionally, if you don’t have the right tools and equipment, you may need to purchase or rent them, which can add to the overall cost.
On the other hand, hiring a professional can ensure that the wainscoting is installed correctly and efficiently. Professional installation averages about $55 per hour. While this may increase the overall cost of the project, it can save you time and effort in the long run.
Ultimately, whether you choose DIY or professional installation will depend on your budget, skills, and preferences. If you’re confident in your carpentry skills and have the necessary tools and equipment, DIY installation may be a good option for you. However, if you want to ensure that the wainscoting is installed correctly and efficiently, hiring a professional may be worth the extra cost.