The Wallpaper That Gives The Look Of Wainscotting On A Budget (And How To Apply It)

If you're looking for ideas to elevate your builder-grade walls, the addition of wainscoting is a terrific way to create more charm and character. While there are various types of wainscoting, such as board and batten and picture frame molding, beadboard paneling is a classy wall option that works well with a variety of interior design styles. If your budget doesn't allow for installing traditional beadboard panels, you might want to consider beadboard wallpaper instead. It offers a nearly identical look at a fraction of the price. The other big advantages are that you can easily install it yourself, it doesn't require the use of power tools, and you don't have to remove any trim or baseboards beforehand.

A few additional attributes of the Better Homes & Gardens Beadboard Paintable Expanded Vinyl Wallpaper from Walmart are that it's made of vinyl, can be painted whatever color you'd like, and is moisture-repellent. You can find beadboard wallpaper in pre-pasted or non-pasted versions (depending on your preference). If you're renting and need a removable option that won't damage the wall, you can use this ReWallpaper Faux Beadboard Peel and Stick version. The wallpaper rolls come in various widths and lengths. However, you won't need nearly as much as you would with a regular wallpaper job since beadboard is usually only applied to the lower half of the wall. If you want to get the look of millwork to add a decorative touch to your home, check out these tips for installing beadboard wallpaper to give your basic walls a more bespoke look without breaking the bank.

If you have heavily textured walls, it's best to smooth them out first by applying a skim coat of joint compound or wall liner. Otherwise, the texture could show through. Next, decide how far up the wall you want the beadboard to go. Mark the line on the wall using a level, and then cut your wallpaper pieces to size. 

If you're using non-pasted wallpaper, brush or roll the adhesive onto the wall and apply the wallpaper strips in place. If using pre-pasted, soak the wallpaper in water for 30 seconds, then fold the ends together like a book for a couple of minutes. Once it feels tacky, you can place the wallpaper on the wall. If using peel-and-stick, remove the backing just along the top, stick the wallpaper in place, and then continue pulling off the backing as you smooth it down the wall. Whichever type you use, be sure to smooth out any air bubbles as you go and pre-cut any holes for electrical outlets.

To give the wallpaper an authentic look, apply chair rail molding along the top of the wallpaper to hide the transition. You may also want to caulk along the baseboard for a seamless appearance. Give the beadboard a custom look by painting it in a contrasting hue from the wall, or paint it in the same color but a different sheen. Another clever way to make it look like real beadboard is to install a shelf ledge or peg rail along the top.