Other Types of Wall and Ceiling Finishes

Fiberboard
Fiberboard is a moderately less expensive finish and comes in either small 12 x 12-inch squares or larger sections.  Fireboard is commonly used to finish ceilings.  The fiberboard is nailed to either furring strips or to the ceiling joists.  The material is fragile and vulnerable to damage, but can be an attractive and relatively inexpensive.

Plywood
Standard plywood can be used to finish walls and ceilings.  It is easily attached with standard nails or small screws and is then usually stained or painted.

Paneling

• 3/16 and 1/4-inch thick paneling is common in family rooms and dens. Paneling ranges from inexpensive Luan panel with printed surfaces to higher quality, natural grain panels.  They are not recommended in high moisture areas and should be checked for warping due to moisture.
• 3/4-inch paneling is a sturdier, architecturally acceptable paneling device that is often used in recreation rooms, family rooms and basements.  This material can either be painted or stained and, in some cases, comes pre-finished.
• 3/4-inch tongue-and-groove knotty pine is a standard grade softwood material, which was common in the 1940s and 1950s.

Cedar Plank and Sheets
Cedar is used frequently in closet areas to repel moths.  [The heartwood (red) gives off the cedar odors.  The sapwood (white) does not give off odors.]

Glass Blocks or Bricks
Though frequently found in commercial construction, glass blocks or bricks are beginning to find their way into residential construction.  They are sometimes used to replace basement windows, however, proper care should be taken to ensure that proper egress and ventilation of the basement is maintained.