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What Is Faux Wood Paneling?

Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers

Faux wood paneling is a construction and design material that is used in place of real wood paneling and typically is made of a mixture of materials such as polyurethane, wood particles and vinyl. This material has various advantages over real wood paneling, including the fact that it often is cheaper and weighs less, which can make it easier to install. It is not always indistinguishable from real wood, and it usually is not as durable, either. Those who choose to add faux wood paneling to their home or office may do so on their floors, walls and blinds, to name a few popular options.

One of the benefits of faux wood paneling is its cost, because it usually is cheaper than real wood, yet many people often cannot tell the difference. In addition, it usually is lighter in weight, which can make it easier to install as a do-it-yourself project. Rather than hiring an expert, homeowners and business owners may be able to save money by using glue, fasteners or regular nails and screws to attach faux wood paneling to the desired surface, while real wood tends to call for more substantial methods of attachment. An additional reason why some people may choose this material over real wood is the lack of warping, rotting and bug infestations.

Unlike faux wood, traditional wood paneling may be susceptible to mold.
Unlike faux wood, traditional wood paneling may be susceptible to mold.

While this type of paneling has its advantages, some people can immediately tell the difference between real wood and faux wood, so they may prefer the former. This is especially true when one closely inspects and feels the surface, because faux wood tends to feel less sturdy. Its light weight also may mean it's not as durable as real wood, which users may notice when putting weight on it or trying to attach items to it with nails. For this reason, some people may end up replacing their faux wood paneling with real wood eventually, which can be a costly decision.

It may be difficult to distinguish between faux wood paneling and the real thing.
It may be difficult to distinguish between faux wood paneling and the real thing.

There are many uses for faux wood paneling, because this material can be used nearly anywhere in a structure. One of the most common uses is on walls, because it usually is simply attached to a surface to create a warm, rich look that often appears more expensive than it really is. The same look can benefit other parts of the house, and this type of material can be found on floors and ceilings, as well as in faux wood blinds. Some people also decorate the exterior of their home with faux wood paneling, choosing to use it as siding or shutters.

Discussion Comments

Spotiche5

In my opinion, today's faux wood paneling looks more natural than ever. There are many options available, from dark to natural to pale wood varieties. These types of faux wood paneling options are nothing like the basic, fake looking wood paneling of the 1970s.

When choosing the best faux wood paneling for your home, think about the color schemes of your paint. It creates a nice effect to contrast your paneling with your paint colors. For example, if you have dark blue walls, a light colored faux wood paneling will not only make the room look cozier, but will also make paint look brighter.

Heavanet

Faux wood paneling is a great option for a basement room. Since this is an area that is not typically seen by most house guests, it is not as important to have the best materials in this area. In addition, faux wood paneling is durable and holds up nicely in moist conditions, which makes it ideal for basement use.

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    • Unlike faux wood, traditional wood paneling may be susceptible to mold.
      By: Altin Osmanaj
      Unlike faux wood, traditional wood paneling may be susceptible to mold.
    • It may be difficult to distinguish between faux wood paneling and the real thing.
      By: johnbraid
      It may be difficult to distinguish between faux wood paneling and the real thing.