Over the course of the last 10 years that I have been working in the Home Improvement industry, I have been fortunate to research and install a wide variety of wall panels that enhance many styles of décor.

While planning for a renovation, I always encourage homeowners to explore as many products as they can both for inspiration and to find innovative ways to create their dream space without breaking the bank.

Whether you are building new construction, gutting and renovating a dated space, or just trying to spruce up a tired room with some character, there are many faux wall panels that may be the perfect option for you, and of course, should you want to, you could always opt for an actual wall to be built into your existing structure using wall formwork to build a lasting wall. You can then choose to panel your wall however you wish.

Lets start with style. These days, almost any natural material can be replicated in a faux finish often using materials such as Polyurethane, PVC, reclaimed wood, or reclaimed agricultural products. These materials can mimic wood grain, river rock, natural stone, brick veneer, grouted tile, antique copper, and more. There is truly something to fit everyone’s design needs. Faux wall panels can also be used in any room including kitchens, baths, basements, even garages. I recently installed a white washed brick veneer panel in a kitchen remodel and the finished product looked fantastic. It added an authentic look and texture to the space and the homeowners absolutely loved it.

Lets talk installation. Ease of installation is an obvious part of any DIY’ers material choice, but it is just as important if you are hiring a contractor to do the work. Though every install and bid is different, when it comes to stone, tile and other detailed installation processes, a contractor will often charge you the same amount that you paid for the product in labor costs. That just doubled your costs. If you purchase an easy to install product, you can save a huge amount on labor and save those dollars for another part of your project. If you’re DIY-ing the install of a natural material that uses thinset, grout, etc., you have to consider the time, skill and tools it takes to get the job done right. Remember, not only do you want your work to look good for YOU to enjoy, but when you go to sell your home your return on investment is often determined by the quality of work done. It should always look like it was done by a pro! Most faux wall panels can be installed using some of these basic materials: glue, construction staples, nails, screws, even double sided tape. Many are easy to cut as well using a hand saw(a miter saw, jig saw or a table saw can also be used).

Affordability is crucial to making the most of your budget. Faux panels can add richness and drama to any space without breaking the bank. I’ve seen products for as little as $4/sq. ft up to $25/sq. ft. But the average range is between $4-$11/sq. ft. which makes it a very affordable choice, especially when you consider the added time, cost of adhesive materials, and tools needed to install (for instance) natural stone.

Lastly, many of these panels are fire rated, clean up with soap and water, are extremely durable. They often add a layer of insulation depending on the materials they are made from, are not prone to warping, and can be used in both exterior and interior installations They can also be installed on top of existing drywall, studs, or ceramic tile, and can be found in environmentally friendly options. So, if you’re looking to make big design impact in your next renovation, consider the variety of faux wall panels. They are a great option to create an authentic look without breaking the bank.