Wallcoverings - a buyer's guide

Wallcoverings: a buyer’s guide

Find out the importance of choosing a wallcovering that is influenced by how you use your room

By Seoana Sherry-Brennan |

Regardless of the age or style of a home, its walls will be one of the most prominent features so it’s essential to consider what wall treatment and wallcoverings are right for your property.

Your choice should be influenced by how the space will be used – in areas with a high footfall, where scuffs and scratches are likely, use a covering that can be easily refreshed. Bathrooms and kitchens will need a surface that can withstand condensation and be wiped clean, whereas in bedrooms and living rooms the focus will be on the finished look rather than durability.

Regardless of the age or style of a home, its walls will be one of the most prominent features. So it’s essential to consider what wall treatment is right for your property. Your choice should be influenced by how the space will be used – in areas with a high footfall, where scuffs and scratches are likely, use a covering that can be easily refreshed.

Bathrooms and kitchens will need a surface that can withstand condensation and be wiped clean, whereas in bedrooms and living rooms the focus will be on the finished look rather than durability.

Expert panel

Wall panelling is becoming increasingly popular, adding texture and character to contemporary builds. Despite the Victorian echoes, the use of lighter woods and bold hues modernises this wall treatment.

Panelling is also a practical choice to conceal uneven walls. If you want to minimise costs, consider reclaimed timber wall cladding. Remember that if planks need to be treated or stained, it will increase the price.

Alternatively, opt for wood-effect laminates or vinyls. ‘Laminate wall panelling is becoming more popular because of its looks, as well as the ease and speed of installation,’ says Stuart White, managing director at Bushboard. ‘There is a trend for wood-grain effects at the moment, particularly weathered and salvaged timbers. High-performance laminate surfaces, which are realistic in colour and texture, can even be used in rooms with high moisture levels, as they are durable and easy to maintain.’

On the tiles

Tiles are a practical and stylish option for bathrooms and kitchens, but there is no reason to limit them to these areas. 3D-effect tiles are particularly eye-catching, transforming walls into works of art. They are also effective at disguising uneven surfaces. Another trend to watch this year is terracotta, which is replacing the current fashion for crisp, white surfaces.

‘Tiles are a great way to give your room some texture,’ says Cato Cooper, co-owner of The Emporium Somerset. ‘Tiling a whole wall can be costly; fix tiles to a key section for a cheaper alternative.’

If you’re choosing to take on tiling yourself, the key is preparation. Begin by calculating the number of tiles you need, including wastage. Lots of suppliers offer a guide as to how many square metres a pack of tiles will cover, or have a calculator tool to help.

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