4 Must-Know Facts About Basement Wainscoting

For years, some of the best professional basement remodelers have been infusing traditional wainscoting in basement designs. Basement wainscoting refers to a classic interior wall treatment that uses decorative boards and panels to add an appealing visual texture to the lower half of a wall. As such, basement wainscoting is one of the many final touches used to make your downstairs just as appealing as the rest of your home.

When done correctly, basement wainscoting creates immersive depth.

1. Where to Use Basement Wainscoting

Traditional wainscoting is often used in kitchenettes, bathrooms and family areas, and these same rooms are perfect for wainscoting in basement areas, too.

2. What is Wainscoting Made Out Of?

Traditional wainscoting is always made of solid wood, and is therefore the most expensive. Walnut and cherry wood are highest quality selections, while pine is an excellent cost-efficient species. There are also plenty of alternative wainscoting building materials (in order of most expensive to least):

• Medium density fiberboard (MDF) – Unlike solid wood, MDF does not expand from heat, contract from cold, or warp from moisture.  
• Plastic – Usually made from a special type of PVC. Does not rot like real wood.
• Plywood – These pre-manufactured sheets are the easiest to install.

3. How Much Maintenance Care is Required for Wainscoting?

PVC (plastic) wainscoting does not require any maintenance. Other types can be cleaned with a duster or a soft brush, followed by a vacuum. If the wood is sealed or painted with a semigloss paint or a clear polyurethane finish, then you can clean it with a damp microfiber cloth using two-parts vinegar with one part water. If the wainscoting has not been treated, skip the last step.

4. What is the Difference Between Wall Panelling and Wainscoting?

Visually, the two can look identical. However, wall panels are much taller than wainscoting treatments. Wainscoting is normally done up to chair-level height; anything taller is classified as a wall panel.

Need Basement Wainscoting?

Basement Masters is a Maryland basement remodeling company also serving Washington DC, Delaware and Virginia. Check out our terrific wainscoting ideas and then contact us to see how we can make your basement look as luxurious as the rest of your home!