Wall Panel Board vs. Paint: Which Offers Better Value for Interior Upgrades?
- Napan Persada Group
- Jun 24
- 3 min read
When it comes to upgrading the look and feel of a room, homeowners and interior designers are often faced with the classic question: Should you go with a fresh coat of paint or invest in wall panel boards?
See, both options have their merits, but when you consider their long-term value, durability, and visual impact, the choice can depend on various factors. Goals, budget, and design style are among the most important factors to consider. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option to help you make the right decision.

What is a Wall Panel Board?
A wall panel board is a flat or textured panel made from materials such as MDF, PVC, wood, or gypsum. They are installed on interior walls to enhance aesthetics, cover imperfections, or add insulation and soundproofing.
These boards come in various styles—from minimalist modern grooves to intricate classic molding—-offering instant character and depth to any room.
Comparing Wall Panel Board and Paint
To find the best finishes for your interior needs, let us spell out different factors you might need to consider.
Aesthetic Appeal
Wall Panel Board: Adds texture, dimension, and architectural detail. Boards are ideal for accent walls, feature areas, or full room transformations. Styles like slat walls, wainscoting, and geometric panels are trending in modern interiors.
Paint: Offers a clean, flat finish with a wide range of color options. They are great for creating mood through color, especially in minimalist spaces or rental properties.
Durability and Maintenance
Wall Panel Board: Boards are considered to be more durable and resistant to wear. Many are scratch-resistant and easier to clean than painted drywall. Applying boards for high-traffic areas, like hallways or living rooms, will create an interesting focal point and texture to your interior.
Paint: Prone to chipping, scuffing, and fading over time—especially in homes with children or pets. You may need to repaint your wall every few years.
Installation and Cost
Wall Panel Board: As wall panel boards are made from engineered wood, they become a more expensive option compared to paint. Installation of these boards can be DIY-friendly for lightweight panels (like MDF), but may require professional help for complex patterns or solid wood.
Paint: Compared to wall panel boards, painting requires fewer tools and expertise. You just need paint, brushes, and time. However, frequent maintenance or color updates may increase long-term costs.
Customization and Design Flexibility
Wall Panel Board: Available in pre-designed textures or you can customize patterns for a high-end feel. You can even paint them yourself or apply finishing paper according to your interior style or personal preference.
Paint: While paint offers unlimited color choices and finishes, it cannot replicate the textures of other pre-existing materials in the industry. The customizability of paint makes it easier for you to change it when you want a new look quickly.
After laying out all the specifications on the table, we can see that wall panel boards have a significantly higher advantage in the long run compared to paint. Wall panel board adds a layer of interest to any interior—making a bland room even more appealing for anyone that enters. Their durability, visual appeal, and modern styling make them a top choice for homeowners looking to elevate their space with lasting results.

Read more about What is MDF? Characteristics and How It's Used
If you’re considering wall panel boards for your next renovation, opt for MFM boards! These MDF boards have been embedded with a melamine paper, which helps protect and enhance their look. You won’t need to worry about looking for a place that can add finishing touches to preexisting MDF boards—all you have to do is choose the right texture and color according to your needs.
Consider purchasing MFM boards from PT Sumatera Prima Fibreboard (www.spf.co.id) — a trusted partner of many furniture manufacturers around Indonesia. Find out more about MFM or MDF boards by contacting our team via our website.
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