Paneling refers to wooden boards or other materials installed on walls to cover or decorate them. In older homes, you might see rooms with dark wood paneling covering the walls from floor to ceiling, giving them a formal, traditional look. Libraries, studies, and meeting rooms often feature paneling made from oak, walnut, or mahogany.

When builders install paneling, they attach individual boards or sheets to the wall surface, often fitting them together in patterns. Some paneling shows the natural grain of wood, while other types are painted. Modern paneling might be made from vinyl, fabric, or composite materials instead of solid wood.

You'll also hear paneling used for decorative sections on doors, furniture, or even car interiors. The raised or recessed squares you see on fancy doors are called panels, and together they form the door's paneling. In colonial times, wood paneling served a practical purpose beyond decoration: it helped insulate rooms and protect plaster walls from damage. Today, paneling is mostly chosen for its appearance, creating a sense of atmosphere and character in a room.