Wainscoting and Board and Batten Calculator

An even layout, a diagram and a material list.

Project Details
Enter your measurements and requirements
$
Results
Calculated estimates for your project
Panels7
Stiles8
Panel width16 9/16 in
Stile on-center20 1/16 in
Stile length32 1/2 in
8 ft boards7
4 x 8 sheets2
Estimated cost$75

Turn these numbers into a build plan.

  • 7 panels
  • 16 9/16 in panel width
  • 7 x 8 ft boards to buy
Materials List
Recommended materials and quantities
8 ft boards7

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Project plan · built from your numbers

Wainscoting, 12.0 ft wall

7 panels of 16 9/16 in between 8 stiles, 36 in tall.

Materials
$75
Time
1 weekend
Level
Easy
5 steps 5 tools 4 materials
  1. 1

    Prep the wall

    Remove outlets' covers and base trim, and find the studs.

  2. 2

    Set the top line

    Snap a level line at 36 in and fit the top rail.

  3. 3

    Mark the layout

    Mark stiles every 20 1/16 in on center.

01 · Your numbers
Panels
7
Panel width
16 9/16 in
Boards to buy
7 x 8 ft
Est. cost
$75
02 · The plan

5 steps · 5 tools · 4 materials

2 more steps, the full tool list and a shopping list you can check off as you go.

03 · Finished

Your plan is 60% built. Save it.

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Wainscoting, 12.0 ft wall

Finished in 1 weekend · $75 DIY

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How to lay out wainscoting

A stile sits at each end, so the panels always finish even. The trim and molding profiles guide helps you pick the stock.

  1. Measure the wall. Measure in inches at the height of the top rail.
  2. Pick a target. Most walls look right with panels around 14 to 20 in wide.
  3. Round to whole panels. Panels = (wall - stile) / (target + stile), rounded.
  4. Split evenly. Panel width = (wall - stiles x stile width) / panels.

Frequently asked questions

How do you space board and batten evenly?

Choose a target spacing, round to a whole number of panels, then divide the remaining wall by that number.

How high should wainscoting be?

About one third of the wall is a common rule, so 32 to 36 in in an 8 ft room. Taller styles go to around 48 to 60 in.

What should I use for the boards?

Primed MDF is popular in dry rooms. Use PVC or solid wood in bathrooms and other damp areas.

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