Reclaimed wood paneling is automatically unique, simply by dint of being outside the typical virgin wood supply chain. Every recycled product has its own special story, and reclaimed wood panels are no exception. Most companies that specialize in reclaimed wood are happy to relate the life stories of their products. From old barns to disassembled gymnasiums, repurposed wood paneling typically has a fascinating origin.

However, property owners can get even more creative with reclaimed wood panels by taking advantage of the variety of styles offered by those who construct 4×8 veneer architectural panels and other reclaimed wood products. Below, we suggest a few methods for putting your own personal touch on reclaimed wood paneling.

Choose a unique primary source. Shipping crates, wine casks, gymnasium bleachers – all of these items may be refurbished into reclaimed wood products. The first way to make your wood paneling application unique is to select a special primary source. For instance, a music venue might choose to install old-growth Douglas fir 4×8 veneer architectural panels that had previously been beams in old warehouses. This primary source selection would provide superb acoustics and an unusual atmosphere.

Create a new finish. Over time, even the quirkiest rustic wood paneling loses its novelty. If you’re yearning for a change in your existent wood paneling, consider applying a new finish. First, you’ll need to use an orbital sander to eradicate the older finish. Then you can apply whatever stain or veneer your heart desires. Or leave the wood in its natural state – just be sure to apply a shellac or polyurethane seal to act as a protective layer.

Contrast finish with flooring. Entirely matte or glossy furnishings are less effective than contrasting finishes. If you do decide to refinish your wood paneling, think about how the finish will contrast with nearby flooring. For instance, wood paneling with a glossy finish would nicely complement a matte slate floor.

Paint everything white. Older wood panels may look dingy and worn down from years of use. If your rustic wood paneling is looking a little too rustic, consider painting the entire space – beams, wood paneling, everything – white. Designers have long used this tactic to modernize rooms.

Preserve original markings. Some people prefer uniform, sleek, unmarred wood paneling. This is a wonderful style for retail environments, businesses and residences alike. Other people favor reclaimed wood paneling that gives viewers clues about its previous life. For instance, wood joists from old warehouses can become eye-catching wood paneling with sporadic ashy dots – the dots are black oxide that old nails left behind.

Choose a different texture. A similar dichotomy exists in textures for wood paneling; certain individuals prefer perfect smoothness, while others would rather have an unusual texture. Indeed, many people love the antique look of exterior barn wood. Designers have responded by creating rustic wood paneling that has been formed to look worn away. This style of wood paneling is durable enough for commercial applications and entirely free of splinters and catches.

Apply paneling to different sections of the room. Instead of paneling the entire wall, you can create a unique look by paneling only certain sections. For instance, you could choose to install wainscoting, a type of wood paneling that reaches only halfway up the wall. Or, if you want to hide an ugly popcorn ceiling, you could install pine wood paneling over it for a classic, timeless look. Finally, consider creating paneled “accent walls” that catch the light or attract the eye in some other way.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to customize wood paneling. For starters, you can choose from any number of materials. From rustic wood paneling for a country kitchen to lustrous 4×8 veneer architectural panels for a swank office, there’s a style of reclaimed wood paneling to suit every home and business. Additionally, you can use paint, veneers, finishes and stains to change the appearance of existing paneling. Finally, you can selectively install paneling only on certain sections of a room rather than over every wall.