Cover the bottom half of the bathroom walls with wainscoting.
Redesigning a bathroom involves many choices, from the tub and shower to the fixtures, flooring and walls. When you think about wall decor, you need to decide between slapping a coat of paint on the walls, pasting wallpaper or perhaps putting paneling in the bathroom. Wall paneling suited to comes in various styles and materials that can withstand the high moisture content in bathrooms.
Paneling Styles
While real wood is not a good option due to the moisture content in bathrooms, beadboard and wainscoting work well as paneling choices. Choose boards made from medium density fiberboard or plywood with a laminate coating. Beadboard or bead plank paneling consists of grooved boards that create a traditional cottage look. Easy to install, beadboard paneling typically has tongue and groove features that allow you to simply connect the boards together and adhere them to the wall. Wainscoting dates back to colonial times and is a decorative paneling style you can install on half the wall, usually the bottom half, or cover the entire wall with the material. This paneling style comes in various sizes of raised panels to complement your decor.
Protective Coating
Manufactured specifically for moisture-laden areas, most paneling for bathrooms has a laminate covering. The laminate coating protects the material beneath from water damage due to splashing and from the moisture produced by the steam from hot showers.
Care and Maintenance
Soap and water or commercial bathroom cleansers are safe to use for cleaning laminate paneling. Because there is no grout involved, paneling in bathrooms is a common choice for homeowners who are looking for simple upkeep. Wipe the paneling with a dry towel after showers or baths.
Considerations
When you choose paneling for your bathroom, consider pre-cut boards or have a professional cut the boards. Unless you have the proper tools to make completely smooth, even cuts, any frayed edges may allow moisture inside. Moisture in between the paneling and the wall or inside the core of the paneling can contribute to mold growth in the bathroom.
Tags: bathroom walls, bottom half, , content bathrooms, laminate coating