By Gene and Katie Hamilton

If a designer wants to add charm and texture to an ordinary room, beadboard paneling is often the solution. But the wood panels are pricey compared to hanging a beadboard wallpaper, which is much less expensive and easier to install. The wallcovering doesn’t require carpentry tools and skills so it’s a likely alternative that makes any room more appealing. You’ll find prepasted beadboard wallpaper sold at paint and decorating retailers, home centers and online.

To install prepasted beadboard below a chair rail in a 10 by 12 foot room an installer will charge $661. You can buy the material for $115 and do the job and pocket a 82 percent saving. You’ll need wall sizing to apply to the surface of the wall to make it easier to install and reposition the material. You’ll also need a sharp pair of scissors, razor cutter, plumb bob or laser level and a drop cloth to protect the floor.

Follow the directions from the manufacturer and work slowly to avoid making any miscuts. If you plan to paint the chair rail, do it before installing the wallpaper. At www.grahambrown.com, a manufacturer of the material, You’ll find how-to videos in the Tips & Advice section.

Sound too complicated and time consuming? Here's a link to Home Advisor, a free referral service that matches homeowners with local contractors.

The bottom line: compare the price of an installer's bid to install a beadboard wallcovering with what it costs to do it yourself and make your decision. You adjust the cost to where you live by adding your ZIP Code.

Improvement and Repair Cost Updated 2019