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Are Wall Panels Expensive? The Real Cost of Installing Timber Wall Panelling

Are Wall Panels Expensive? The Real Cost of Installing Timber Wall Panelling

Are Wall Panels Expensive? The Real Cost of Installing Timber Wall Panelling

What is the Cost of Installing Timber Wall Panelling?

Per square metre, timber wall panelling costs approximately $290-$485, depending on the material used. 

For example, low-cost veneer options are generally more affordable than solid timber products. Similarly, paint-grade materials such as finger-jointed pine are typically more cost-effective than premium hardwood species like Victorian Ash or American Oak.

For more information on real timber panelling pricing, see our range of wall panelling species and their respective pricing options.

How Much Wall Panelling Material Will I Need? 

We’ve created the wall panelling calculator below to help you estimate how much material you will need to order for your project.

Please note: this calculator is designed specifically for our wall panelling range, which features a 75mm cover width per panel. 

Wall Panelling Calculator







 

Premium vs Budget Wall Panelling Options 

If you are looking for solid timber wall panelling, the most cost-effective option is typically paint-grade finger-jointed pine. The key advantage of this species is its availability in lengths up to 5.4m, meaning it does not need to be joined on-site. It is also widely available, making it an extremely affordable option compared to other timbers.

While it can be stained, finger-jointed pine does not feature the same distinctive natural grain found in premium hardwoods. For this reason, it is generally best suited to projects where the final finish will be painted.

In the mid-range category, species such as American Oak, Victorian Ash, and White Gum offer a balance of quality and affordability. All three are hardwood options, with White Gum specifically being an engineered wood product (EWP)-you can read more this our article What is EWP Timber / Engineered Wood Product? Victorian Ash is supplied in random lengths, while American Oak is a finger-jointed, pre-joined product supplied in 3m lengths.

These species are extremely popular for interior applications due to their attractive grain structures and versatility. They respond well to oiling, lacquering, and staining, making them ideal for achieving a high-end internal finish.

At the premium end of the range are EWP Blackbutt and Spotted Gum. These are denser hardwood species, which contribute to their strength, durability, and suitability for both interior and exterior applications. They are also widely used in flooring.

Their premium positioning is largely due to material availability and high demand, as both species are highly sought after in Australian architectural and residential design

Do Timber Wall Panels Add Value to a Home?

Yes, timber wall panelling can absolutely add value to a home, particularly in high-end builds where it is used as an architectural point of difference. When applied thoughtfully, it elevates interior spaces with warmth, texture, and a level of craftsmanship expected in premium residential design.

However, it is important to note that this value is closely tied to the material's quality and finish. Lower-cost veneer products can be prone to chipping, damage, and visible wear when inspected up close. They also do not offer the same tactile quality or natural depth as a genuine timber product. This can detract from the overall aesthetic and finish, rather than enhancing it.

This is why, at Hammersmith, we focus exclusively on Australian-made timber wall panelling, manufactured on-site at our Adelaide-based factory. Producing everything in-house means there are no long lead times associated with offshore manufacturing, and we are able to work directly with customers, architects, and designers to develop the most suitable solution for each project.

We are also set up to manufacture custom designs where project scale and quantities allow. Read more about our custom woodworking and woodturning capabilities.

In addition, timber wall panelling has remained extremely popular in interior design for many years and continues to be a strong trend in contemporary homes. Its use is not just a passing style choice. Timber wall panelling has become a staple feature in modern luxury interiors, consistently favoured by architects and designers for its timeless appeal.

Next article Modern Timber Corbels: We're Expanding our Range