The Purpose of Wainscoting
Wainscoting is a form of wood paneling or molding.
Wainscoting is one of those terms that often comes up in decor and design discussions. Many people know the basics about wainscoting, but some homeowners are confused about its purpose.
Here's all there is to know about wainscoting's purpose:
What is wainscoting?
Wainscoting is a form of wood paneling or molding. It consists of decorative boards or panels traditionally positioned to cover the lower part of the walls of living rooms, dining rooms, and other interior spaces. It's been around for quite some time, dating back many centuries.
Originally, wainscoting was functional and fitted to protect walls against accidental damage. These days, it has multiple purposes, both functional and decorative.
Protect the walls from damage and marks
The initial purpose of wainscoting was to provide a kind of wooden shield, guarding walls against little nicks and knocks. For example, people walking around the home in riding boots could inadvertently catch the walls and leave marks behind.
That protective purpose is still valid today. Many homeowners install wainscoting to protect their walls against damage and degradation. One can avoid dirty fingermarks, scuffs, and accidental scrapes with wainscoting, which is generally quite easy to clean. It's ideal for those heavy-traffic areas of the home, like hallways and kitchens.
Insulate against damp and cold
Wainscoting also provides a layer of insulation around the house. When installed on the inside of exterior walls, for example, it helps to lock warmth into the room and banish the cold.
With today's soaring energy prices for many homeowners, wainscoting's extra efficiency boost is worth considering. It won't have the biggest effect on energy bills, but it can help homeowners save a little money in the long run.
A decorative addition for visual appeal
As mentioned, people historically saw wainscoting as a functional rather than fashionable addition to a home. It was needed to protect against damage and insulate cold stone walls. These days, it's more widely appreciated for its aesthetics.
Many interior designers like to work with wainscoting to bring elegance and refinement to living spaces. It can draw attention to the walls, make rooms feel richer and warmer, and even add a classy, traditional vibe to an otherwise simple space. Plus, there are many different styles to choose from, suiting a wide range of tastes.
Contact the pros for wainscoting installation and repair
Wainscoting is a great addition to any home. But to get the best results and maximum value, it has to be installed and maintained to a high standard. Contact a trusted specialist near you for expert wainscoting refinishing and repair.