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Wainscoting is decorative wood panelling along the lower section of a wall. Traditionally, wainscoting protected the wall from scuffs; these days, it can add style to your dining room or any other area of your home. It gives the illusion of depth to walls that might otherwise have been flat and boring. Wainscoting is a design feature that’s elegant, sophisticated, timeless and surprisingly easy to install.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.
The top rail (called the chair rail) should be measured next, along with the skirting board. Cut them to size so that they’re ready to go when you begin installing them.
For corners and joining two pieces together, use a mitre saw to cut the ends at a 45-degree angle. Check they fit together snugly.
It’s time to start installing your wainscoting. Place adhesive on the back of the first panel, line it up and ensure that it's level, then stick it to the wall. Next, grab your nail gun and nail the panel into the studs you marked earlier. Continue this until all the panels are fixed to the wall.
Fill all the nail holes using some filler and a scraper. Wait until it is dry to sand off any excess. To fill any gaps between the panels and trim, use gap filler and a caulking gun.
The final step is to paint the wainscoting. Add painter’s tape to keep the edges neat, use a paintbrush to paint any small areas and use the roller to fill in the rest. Leave the paint to dry between coats and do as many coats as needed.
For more renovation inspiration, watch Episode 3: Master Bedroom, Ensuite & Fernery renovation in our Make It Happen: The House Project series.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
