The average price to Install Wall Paneling noted above is cost data to compare a contractor’s estimate with doing it yourself.
National Average Improvement and Repair Cost
Pro
DIY
Hours:
16.5
18.5
Cost:
$ 1296
$ 440
Would you do this project? According to our survey, 62% of respondents preferred DIY compared to hiring a pro.
How much is wall paneling? Compare the contractor cost of installing wall paneling for $1,296 vs. doing it yourself for $440 and saving 66 percent.
Whether painted or finished naturally, beadboard is a popular choice for paneling in many rooms because of its casual but clean appearance. It adds warmth and appeal that no other wall covering can match.
Decades ago, beadboard was commonly used on porch ceilings and as wainscoting. Narrow strips of wood with rounded edges were installed individually. Today beadboard comes in sheet paneling, which means it’s much easier and faster to install on a wall.
How much does it cost to install wall paneling? A carpenter will charge $1,296 to install 4-by-8 sheets of beadboard paneling in a 12-by-15-foot room with an 8-foot ceiling and a single door and window, approximately 330 square feet. That includes labor and material. You can buy the paneling and materials for $440 and do the job yourself, pocketing a 66 percent savings.
Materials include the paneling, furring strips, adhesive and finishing nails. Power tools needed are a jigsaw, circular saw and finishing sander. An electronic stud finder is handy when installing the furring strips.
Prepare the room by removing all wall decorations, base or ceiling moldings, and electrical outlet and switch plate covers. Begin by fastening the furring strips to the walls, and then measure and cut the panels to fit around door and window trim and the electrical openings. Then nail the panels to the furring strips and install ceiling and base molding to trim out the job.
The bottom line: compare the price of a contractor’s bid to install wall paneling with what it costs to do it yourself and make your decision.
