Choosing the right wallcovering for your home can seem overwhelming with so many options to consider. But breaking down the pros and cons of different wallcoverings can help simplify the decision. Here’s an in-depth look at the most popular wallcovering materials to help you determine which is right for your needs.

Paint

Paint is the most common and budget-friendly wallcovering option. It’s easy to apply, available in endless color options, and can create various aesthetic effects with different sheens and textures.

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Easy to apply and touch up
• Wide range of colors and finishes
• Can easily change color scheme

Cons

• Not very durable or scrubbable
• Requires more frequent repainting
• Colors can fade over time
• Doesn’t hide imperfections in walls

Best For

Paint works for most rooms and is ideal for budgets or spaces that will be frequently updated. Flat or matte finishes help hide imperfections, while glossy paint makes a statement. Washable paints are useful in kitchens, baths and kids’ rooms.

Wallpaper

Wallpaper covers walls with decorative paper material adding color, prints, textures and patterns. Modern wallpapers are durable, cleanable and fade-resistant.

Pros

• Wide range of patterns, colors and textures
• Conceals flaws in walls
• Vinyl-coated options are scrubbable
• Provides decorative flair

Cons

• Trickier to install correctly
• Removing old wallpaper is labor intensive
• Seams may show over time
• Can be expensive

Best For

Wallpaper excels at adding striking visuals and concealing imperfect walls in bedrooms, dining rooms, hallways and accent walls. Washable vinyl wallpaper withstands moisture in bathrooms and kitchens.

Textiles

Textile wallcoverings include fabric, jute, sisal, grasscloth and other natural materials applied to walls with adhesive backing. They provide soft, textured visual interest.

Pros

• Natural look and feel
• Variety of woven textures
• Help absorb sound
• Conceal imperfections

Cons

• Tend to be expensive
• Attract dust and require frequent vacuuming
• May fray or tear over time
• Can be difficult to install evenly

Best For

Textured walls create cozy ambiance in bedrooms, dining rooms and living spaces. Performance fabrics resist moisture and stains for kitchens and baths.

Tile

Tile includes ceramic, porcelain or natural stone pieces installed on walls with mortar or adhesive strips. Grout lines create a grid pattern. Glass, metal and mosaic tiles add shimmer.

Pros

• Durable and water-resistant
• Easy to clean
• Range of colors, sizes, textures
• Hide imperfections
• Adds vintage/modern flair

Cons

• Labor intensive professional installation
• Grout needs periodic sealing
• Heavy weight requires robust walls
• Costly material and installation

Best For

Tile is commonly used in kitchens, baths, foyers and accent walls. Smaller mosaic tiles work on curved shower surrounds. Porcelain is ideal for high-moisture areas.

Wood Paneling

Wall paneling offers the warm, natural look of wood planks, often with a decorative groove pattern. Modern paneling comes in lightweight materials like vinyl and PVC.

Pros

• Timeless, classic look
• Variety of faux wood colors and styles
• Affordable laminate options
• Easy DIY installation
• Conceals imperfections

Cons

• Fake wood lacks natural variation
• Heavy, solid wood is expensive
• Not moisture resistant
• Dark colors can make rooms feel small

Best For

Faux wood paneling quickly warms up living rooms, bedrooms and accent walls without the cost of real wood. Use sparingly in small spaces to avoid a closed-in feel.

Brick/Stone Veneers

Thin slices of real brick or faux brick and stone panels add natural texture. Mortarless application makes installation easier.

Pros

• Natural, earthy appearance
• Variety of stone/brick styles
• Mortarless panels go up faster
• Durable and scrubbable
• Conceals imperfections

Cons

• Heavier than most wallcoverings
• Needs sealing to avoid moisture damage
• Costlier than paint or wallpaper
• Dark colors can be space closing

Best For

Faux brick and stone suit rustic spaces like dens and game rooms. Use stone accents in a kitchen backsplash or bathroom. Limit use in small rooms.

Metallic Finishes

Metal leaf, foil, mylar and metallic paints add contemporary sparkle and high-end style to accent walls. Some mimic copper, silver, gold and more.

Pros

• Mirror-like reflective surface
• Luxe look at various price points
• Foil is inexpensive DIY option
• Professional metal leaf has lasting beauty
• Adds glamorous accent

Cons

• Shows imperfections
• Can appear noisy or busy in large doses
• Needs careful prep and application
• Metal leaf is costly, labor intensive

Best For

Metallic accents draw the eye to highlight specific spaces like entryways, bars or dining rooms. Limit use to avoid sensory overload.

Cork

Cork wall tiles or panels provide natural sound absorption. Made from renewable cork oak trees, products are sustainable and biodegradable.

Pros

• Made from renewable source
• Natural sound dampening
• Warm, organic aesthetic
• Soft surface won’t damage walls
• Easy DIY installation

Cons

• Shows dents and scratches
• Natural variations in color
• Tiles can become loose
• Vulnerable to moisture

Best For

Cork is ideal for media rooms, nurseries or offices to absorb echo and noise. Works well paired with accent colors. Avoid moisture-prone spaces.

Grasscloth

Fibers from grasses and other plants are woven onto paper backings to produce textured, earthy grasscloth wallcoverings.

Pros

• Natural, organic look
• Variations create unique patterns
• Rich colors and texture
• Lightweight for easy installation
• Conceals imperfections

Cons

• Expensive
• Attracts dust
• Can be tricky to install evenly
• Vulnerable to moisture

Best For

Grasscloth adds cozy, inviting texture to bedrooms, dining rooms and offices. Avoid high-moisture areas. Pair with light paint colors.

Moving Beyond Paint

While paint may be the default, wallcoverings open up many decorative possibilities from dramatic patterns to charming textures. Assessing your space, budget and needs makes choosing easier. Don’t be afraid to mix materials either. The right wallcovering can turn a basic wall into a stunning focal point. With some thoughtful consideration, you can pick the perfect fit.

Factors To Consider When Selecting Wallcoverings

Selecting a wallcovering involves assessing your space, lifestyle and budget. Key factors to weigh include:

Wall Condition

• Smooth vs. flaws – Paint works for perfection, while wallpaper, paneling or texture hides imperfections
• Existing material – Can new wallcovering be applied over it?
• Moisture issues – Some materials handle humidity better

Room Function

• High traffic vs. guest room – Durable washable surfaces for public areas
• Formal vs. casual setting – Tailor formality level
• Kids’ spaces need super scrubbable and stain resistant surfaces

Aesthetic Goals

• Make a bold statement or subtle accent – Use wallcovering scale and color accordingly
• Warm and cozy or cool and sleek – Select textures and tones to match
• Historical architecture may suit traditional wallcovering styles

Lighting

• Well lit vs. dim – Shiny surfaces reflect more light
• Natural light vs. artificial – Different lighting affects color perception

Accessibility

• Easy DIY application vs. professional installation – Factor cost and effort
• Ability to reach heights safely – Choose appropriate application method

Budget

• Paint is generally most affordable
• Look for value options like faux finishes
• Labor for installation and removal affects costs

Sustainability

• Reusable and renewable materials are ideal
• Consider end of life recyclability
• Check for harmful VOCs in adhesives and materials

Personal Lifestyle

• Active family spaces demand ultra durability
• Frequently redecorating suits simple paint updates
• Busy patterns work for energetic personalities

Popular Wallcovering Materials: Pros and Cons

Taking a closer look at the pros and cons of key wallcovering categories helps inform the selection process.

Paint

Pros

• Budget friendly
• Huge color selection
• Tints easily for updates
• Uniform smooth finish
• Easy DIY application

Cons

• Requires frequent repainting
• Not very scrubbable or stain resistant
• Doesn’t hide imperfections
• Colors can fade over time

Best For

Bedrooms, offices, apartments, budgets

Wallpaper

Pros

• Endless print and pattern options
• Conceals wall flaws
• Adds depth through texture
• Some is washable and scrubbable
• Can mimic pricier materials like fabric

Cons

• Time consuming installation and removal
• Risk of adhesion failure or seam visibility
• Can be expensive for high end papers
• Not great in humidity

Best For

Formal spaces, bedrooms, accent walls

Textiles

Pros

• Soft, tactile textures and patterns
• Help absorb echo and sound
• Natural materials like jute, sisal and grasscloth
• Hide imperfections well

Cons

• Expensive compared to paint
• Dust and dirt shows readily
• Subject to fraying and tearing
• Moisture sensitive

Best For

Accent walls, bedrooms, dining rooms

Tile

Pros

• Extremely durable and water resistant
• Easy to clean and disinfect
• Withstands moisture and humidity
• Variety of material and style options

Cons

• Heavy weight requires structural reinforcement
• Professional installation is costly
• Grout needs periodic sealing
• Cold, hard surface lacks softness

Best For

Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms

Wood Paneling

Pros

• Warm, natural aesthetic
• Classic architectural style
• Affordable laminate options
• Relatively easy DIY installation
• Conceals flaws

Cons

• Faux wood lacks natural variation
• Solid wood is heavy and expensive
• Not great in moist environments
• Dark colors can shrink space

Best For

Dens, offices, living rooms, bedrooms

Brick/Stone Veneers

Pros

• Rustic, organic visual
• Mortarless application options
• Durable and easy to clean
• Hide imperfections well
• Fireplace surrounds

Cons

• Heavy requires reinforcement
• Needs sealing from moisture
• Dark colors absorb light
• High material cost

Best For

Accent walls, fireplace surrounds, bars

Metallic Finishes

Pros

• Mirror-like reflective shine
• Luxe look on a budget with foil
• Instantly draw attention
• Can mimic pricier metals
• Easy accent addition

Cons

• Shows imperfections
• Overuse creates visual noise
• Metal leaf requires expertise
• Can appear gaudy if overdone

Best For

Accent walls, dining rooms, bars

Cork

Pros

• Naturally sound absorbing
• Warm, cozy aesthetic
• Made from renewable source
• Easy DIY installation
• Soft surface

Cons

• Dents and scratches show
• Variations in color
• Tiles can become loose
• Vulnerable to moisture

Best For

Media rooms, playrooms, bedrooms

Choosing Wallcoverings for Different Rooms

The right wallcovering varies by room based on aesthetics, practicality and purpose.

Living Room

Paint: Matte or eggshell sheens in light neutrals help walls recede
Wallpaper: Patterns and textures add interest without dominating
Panels: Warm up space above chair rail or on accent wall
Brick: Rustic charm around fireplace

Dining Room

Wallpaper: Playful prints and patterns stimulate appetites
Panels: Classic style complements traditional furnishings
Grasscloth: Natural texture creates cozy ambiance
Brick: Adds old world flair as an accent

Bedroom

Paint: Soothing hues create tranquility
Wallpaper: Update regularly with fresh prints and colors
Textiles: Lightweight natural fibers add softness
Panels: Warm wood Finish provides comfort

Home Office

Paint: Stimulating colors boost focus and creativity
Wallpaper: Patterns can enhance mood and energy
Panels: Warm wood adds natural flair
Cork: Absorbs sound and echoes

Bathroom

Tile: Waterproof and easily cleaned
Wallpaper: Wipeable vinyl resists moisture
Panels: Quality wood or porcelain for spa-like flair
Stone: Creates natural zen retreat

Kitchen

Tile: Durable and hygienic for food prep areas
Wallpaper: Use washable vinyl near sinks and counters
Panels: Faux metal for contemporary vibe
Brick: Warm accent behind stove or around seating

Kids & Playroom

Paint: Durable, wipeable finish in fun colors
Wallpaper: Wipeable prints and removable papers
Panels: Scrubbable and damage resistant
Cork: Soft, safe surface for play time

Wallcovering Options By Budget

Wallcovering costs vary widely based on material, quality and installation. Here are top choices in different budget ranges.

Under $30 per 100 sq ft

• Flat latex paint – Provides basic, affordable color
• Peel-and-stick wallpaper – Temporary papers for short-term decor
• Removable wall decals/stickers – Reusable vinyl graphics and designs
• Faux finishes – Inexpensive way to mimic pricier materials

$30-$75 per 100 sq ft

• Eggshell or satin paint – More durable and wipeable
• Pre-pasted wallpaper – Budget papers still offer variety of prints
• Textured wallpaper – Adds dimension with less installation hassle
• Peel-and-stick tile – Fake tile provides temporary backsplash

$75-$150 per 100 sq ft

• Chalk paint – DIY-friendly finish for shabby chic decor
• Grasscloth – Affordable natural fiber material
• Wall murals – Custom photographic or scenic designs
• Removable wallpaper – Peel it off without damaging walls

$150-$300 per 100 sq ft

• High-end wallpaper – Top designer patterns and materials
• Faux leather/metal wall tiles – Mimic luxury looks
• Wood paneling – Affordable to install laminate or PVC boards
• Fabric wallcovering – Provides upscale softness

$300+ per 100 sq ft

• Vintage wallpaper – Rare prints and documents
• Natural stone – Tile, veneer, or panels
• Solid wood paneling – Mahogany, oak, reclaimed barnwood
• Metallic wall tiles – Real metals like embossed copper, tin, and zinc
• Installed beadboard – Classic wainscoting detail

DIY Installation Tips by Material

Many wallcoverings can be managed without professional help if you’re up for a project. Here are some DIY tips.

Prepping Walls

• Fill holes, repair flaws in surface
• Sand bumps for smooth finish
• Clean walls fully and remove old wallpaper
• Prime walls with suitable primer

Paint

• Use painter’s tape for clean edges
• Cut in edges with brush, roll rest
• Use roller extender for high walls
• Work top to bottom systematically

Removable Wallpaper

• Ensure surface is clean and smooth
• Measure space and cut to size
• Peel off backing and apply sticky side to wall
• Use smoother to eliminate air bubbles

Peel and Stick Tile

• Clean surface fully and remove gloss
• Measure area and tile pieces precisely
• Remove sticker backing and press onto wall
• Use grout pen or caulk between tiles

Wall Decals

• Wipe down surface to remove dirt and oil
• Unstick decal and place where desired
• Remove air pockets by smoothing firmly
• Avoid stretching vinyl material

Beadboard Panels

• Measure area and cut boards to fit with miter saw
• Use finishing nails and hammer to attach boards
• Countersink nails and fill holes with putty
• Seal raw wood edges with primer

Hiring A Pro: What To Ask First

While DIY provides cost savings, some wallcovering projects warrant hiring a professional installer. Here’s what to find out first:

What is your hourly rate or project price estimate?

• Get quotes from 2-3 pros to compare pricing

Do you have experience installing this specific material?

• See examples of past work with the same wallcovering

Are you insured and licensed?