Should you use wall panels or wallpaper? Detailed comparison

Wall panels and wallpaper are two familiar materials used to protect and decorate wall surfaces, making spaces more beautiful, clean, and convenient. But should you use wall panels or wallpaper? Let Thien Ha Floor explore in this article to make the most suitable choice for your home!

How do wall panels and wallpaper differ?

Although both wall panels and wallpaper are used to decorate and protect walls, they differ significantly in material, durability, aesthetics, and functionality.

1. Material and durability

• Wall panels: Made from high-quality PVC plastic, durable, and impact-resistant. Average lifespan is 10-20 years, with minimal damage over time.
• Wallpaper: Made from paper or composite thin materials, with a shorter lifespan of about 3-7 years, easily peeling if exposed to moisture or impact.

2. Moisture resistance and water resistance

• Wall panels: Good water resistance, no worries about mold or mildew, suitable for areas frequently exposed to water.
• Wallpaper: Easily absorbs water and moisture, not suitable for damp areas; best used in the living room, bedroom, or dry spaces.

3. Aesthetics and diverse designs

• Wall panels: Diverse designs, often featuring wood-look, stone-look patterns, or modern colors.
• Wallpaper: Very diverse in patterns, colors, and motifs, making spaces softer, more vibrant, and easily changeable according to personal preferences.

Wood Grain Wall Panel

4. Cost & Installation

• Wall panels: Higher cost, requires professional installation, but more cost-effective in the long run due to high durability. Can be installed on any wall surface using a support frame system, even uneven walls. When removed, wall panels are easy to detach without peeling off the paint.
• Wallpaper: Can be self-installed, suitable for those who want to quickly refresh their space. Only suitable for flat surfaces, easily damaged if the wall is not perfect. Removal requires care as wallpaper can pull off some of the old wall paint, affecting aesthetics. Additionally, wallpaper is usually sold in large rolls, which can lead to waste if you only need to cover a small room, resulting in low cost but shorter lifespan.

Bedroom Wallpaper

5. Cleaning and maintenance

• Wall panels: Easy to clean, stain-resistant, simple maintenance.
• Wallpaper: Difficult to clean, easily torn when wiped, requires careful handling to maintain aesthetics.

Comparison table of wall panels and wallpaper

Should you choose wall panels or wallpaper?

The choice between wall panels and wallpaper depends not only on aesthetic preferences but also on the characteristics of the space, usage needs, and budget.

1. When to choose wall panels

You should choose wall panels in the following cases:

• Need long-term durability and good impact resistance: Wall panels are less prone to peeling, have high aesthetic value, and bring a luxurious, modern feel to the space.
  
• Want quick and easy cleaning: Wipe clean without worrying about surface damage.
• Prefer a modern, luxurious space: Wood grain, stone grain, or diverse color options help create a cohesive and classy room.

Wood Look Wall Panel for Living Room

2. When to choose wallpaper

Wallpaper is suitable in the following cases:

• Dry spaces with minimal water exposure: Living rooms, children's bedrooms, rental apartments, etc.
• Want to change aesthetics frequently: Diverse patterns, colors, and styles, easy to decorate according to preferences.
• Limited budget: Low cost, easy to purchase and install, suitable for DIY at home.
• Flat walls: Ensures a beautiful application without wrinkles or peeling.
• Prioritize flexibility and creativity: Suitable for youthful, dynamic spaces or those that need frequent style updates.

Wallpaper

In summary, if you prioritize high durability and a modern style for elegant spaces, wall panels are a reasonable choice. If you simply want to refresh your space, save costs, and can change styles frequently, wallpaper will be more suitable. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can also combine both for both beauty and practicality.

Thien Ha Floor is a unit specializing in supplying & installing high-class wall panels from leading brands such as: Ecovina, Kosmos, HobiWood,… Please contact Hotline 0909 192 557 for the best price quote!