What Is Wall Panelling? Types of Wall Panelling You Should Know

Wall panelling has become a popular interior and exterior design solution, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits. Whether you want to enhance your home’s décor, improve acoustics or protect your walls, choosing the right types of wall panelling is essential. In this blog, we will explore what is wall panelling the different types of wall panelling materials and their key benefits.

What is Wall Panelling?

Wall panelling refers to decorative or functional sheets or boards installed on walls to enhance their appearance, durability and insulation. These panels come in various materials, designs and finishes, making them a versatile choice for modern interiors. From natural wood panels, fibre cement panels and to PVC panels each type offers unique advantages depending on the application.

Everest Industries provides high-quality wall panelling solutions that combine elegance with durability.

Types of Wall Panelling Materials

When selecting wall panelling styles, it’s important to consider material, durability and maintenance. Below are the six most popular types of wall panelling materials

1. Natural Wood Panels

Natural wood panels add warmth and character to any room. The natural grain and texture of the wood lends depth and dimension to a space. These panels can be made of many different types of wood, such as oak, maple, and pine, with different finishing’s, such as stained, painted and unfinished. However, natural wood and teak is quite expensive and subject to weathering and may not suit your project’s budget. This is where faux wood panellings, such as Everest’s ArteSeries, come in. These sustainable cement wood panels give the same effect as natural wood panels, are more durable while being easier on the pocket.

2. Fabric Acoustic Wall Panelling

Fabric acoustic wall panels are a good option for spaces that need soundproofing or acoustic treatment. They come in different colours and textures and can be customised to fit any size or shape. Fabric panels are also easy to install on drywalls, making them a practical choice for temporary or rental spaces.

3. MDF Panels

MDF (Medium-density fiberboard) panels are a cost-effective option for wall panelling. They are made from compressed wood fibres and resin, making them strong, durable and resistant to warping. MDF panels come in a variety of finishes, including veneer, laminate, and painted.

4. Fibre Cement Panels

Fibre cement panels are a type of wall panel ling made from a combination of cement, sand and cellulose fibres. They are highly durable and resistant to fire, moisture, mould and insect damage. They are also relatively low maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning to maintain their appearance.

In addition to their practical benefits, these panels are available in a wide variety of textures and styles, making them a popular choice as an aesthetically pleasing and versatile building material.

5. PVC Panels

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) panels are a practical option for spaces that require low maintenance and high durability. They are waterproof, mould-resistant and easy to clean, which is why they are often used in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms however they may get damaged when subjected to heat. PVC panels come in a range of styles, including smooth, textured and embossed.

6. Glass and mirror panels

Glass and mirror panels are a modern and sleek option for wall panelling. They reflect light, making a space appear brighter and more spacious. Glass and mirror panels come in different sizes, shapes, and thicknesses and can be customised with frosted or tinted finishes.

Benefits of wall panelling

Now that we have discussed the types of wall panelling, let’s explore the key benefits of wall panelling

1. Easy to install

Wall panelling is relatively easy to install, especially when compared to other home renovation projects. Most wall panels come with a tongue and groove, screw, or clip-and-lock system, which means they can be easily fitted together without the need for special tools or equipment.

2. Plenty of material choices

As we have seen, wall panelling comes in a wide range of materials, styles, and finishes, giving you plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer the warmth of wood, the sturdiness of fibre cement, or the sleekness of glass, there is a wall panelling material that will suit your taste and budget.

3. Protection for your walls

Wall panels not only enhance the look of your walls but also offer protection against scratches, dents, and other types of damage. They also help to insulate your walls, keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer.

4. Low Maintenance

One of the biggest benefits of wall panelling is that it is low maintenance and requires minimal upkeep over time. Some materials, such as fibre cement boards, have added benefits like being moisture and impact resistant. Since wall panels are designed to be durable and long-lasting, they have little need for repairs or maintenance, making them a practical and cost-effective solution.

5. Aesthetics

Everest wall panels are designed to complement modern interior styles with a wide range of finishes, textures and colours. Options like ArteSeries offer the look of natural wood, stone, or fluted patterns without the maintenance challenges of real materials. Whether you prefer minimalist, rustic, or premium aesthetics, there’s a design to match your vision.

6. Insulation

Everest wall panels provide excellent thermal insulation, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption. This feature is particularly useful in both hot and cold climates, where energy efficiency directly impacts comfort and operating costs. In addition, some panels offer acoustic insulation of up to 40 dB, making them ideal for sound-sensitive environments.

7. Functionality

These wall panels go beyond looks, they are engineered for performance. Everest solutions such as Rapicon panels are lightweight, easy to install and compatible with MEP services. Their moisture resistance, fire rating (up to 2 hours) and sound insulation make them suitable for a wide range of residential and commercial applications, including hospitals, schools, offices and homes.

8. Durability

Built to last, Everest wall panels are impact-resistant and designed to withstand moisture, termites and surface wear. Made from high-quality fibre cement and other sustainable materials, they retain their form and finish over time. Their strength ensures fewer repairs and replacements, making them a long-term, cost-effective wall solution.

These benefits of wall panelling make it clear that they are a modern and innovative way of sprucing up your interiors. They offer several advantages, such as easy installation, a wide range of material choices, and low maintenance. Switching to wall panelling for your projects will help you enhance the look and functionality of your walls while providing a versatile and cost-effective solution for both residential and commercial spaces.

By incorporating these wall panelling solutions, you can enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your space

FAQs

1. Which type of wall panelling is best?

The ideal type of wall panelling depends on the purpose and space. For long-lasting durability and resistance to moisture, fibre cement panels are highly recommended. If you’re looking for a natural aesthetic, wood panels are a classic choice—however, Everest ArteSeries faux wood panels provide the same elegant look with added durability and lower maintenance.

2. What is meant by wall panelling?

Wall panelling refers to the application of decorative or functional panels to interior or exterior walls. These panels enhance aesthetics, protect the walls from damage, and in some cases, improve insulation and acoustics.

3. What is wall panelling called?

Wall panelling is also commonly referred to as:

• Wall cladding
• Decorative wall boards
• Interior wall systems

While the terms are often used interchangeably, “wall panelling” specifically refers to panels applied to enhance the look and performance of interior or exterior walls.