Is It Cheaper to Do Paneling or Drywall? A Cost Breakdown for Mornington, Australia

When renovating a home or planning a new interior build in Mornington, a common question arises: “Is it cheaper to do paneling or drywall?” Whether you’re revamping a coastal holiday home near Schnapper Point or upgrading a Federation-style residence in Mount Martha, the answer hinges on several variables—materials, labour, insulation, long-term maintenance, and the look you’re aiming for.

This article explores the cost differences between wall paneling and drywall, including pros and cons, installation costs, and local pricing insights specific to Mornington and the broader Mornington Peninsula.

Paneling vs Drywall: What’s the Difference?

Before diving into costs, let’s clarify the key differences between these two interior wall finishes.

• Drywall (also known as plasterboard or gypsum board) is a construction material composed of gypsum sandwiched between two sheets of heavy paper. It’s the standard interior wall surface in most modern Australian homes.
• Wall paneling typically refers to decorative wood or composite panels that are installed over the framing or sometimes even over drywall. Types include:
  • VJ (Vertical Joint) paneling
  • Shiplap
  • MDF panels
  • PVC wall panels (used in bathrooms and laundries)

Both options offer different aesthetic and functional benefits, but costs vary widely.

Cost of Drywall in Mornington

1. Material Costs

In Mornington, the cost of standard 13mm plasterboard (gyprock) ranges from $10 to $15 per sheet (1200mm x 2400mm) depending on the brand and quality. Moisture-resistant options used in bathrooms or kitchens will cost a bit more.

2. Labour Costs

Professional drywall installation—including fixing, jointing, sanding, and prepping for paint—can cost between $40 and $60 per square metre. Labour rates in Mornington Peninsula tend to be on the higher side due to demand and trade shortages in regional Victoria.

3. Additional Costs

• Painting: $10–$20/sqm
• Cornices & trims: $5–$10/sqm
• Waste removal: Add $200–$400/project

✅ Total Estimate: $50–$80 per square metre, installed and finished.

Cost of Paneling in Mornington

Wall paneling can be a bit more complex due to the variety of options.

1. Material Costs

• MDF VJ Paneling: $25–$45 per panel (usually 1.2m x 2.4m)
• Shiplap Timber Panels: $40–$80 per sqm
• PVC Panels (wet areas): $45–$65 per sqm

Higher-end wood panels (e.g., Tasmanian oak) will run over $100 per square metre.

2. Labour Costs

Installing paneling is generally quicker than drywall (no jointing or sanding), but requires more precision for alignment and detailing, especially around windows and doors.

Expect to pay $30–$50 per square metre for standard installation in Mornington.

3. Additional Costs

• Painting or staining: $15–$25/sqm
• Nailing, adhesive, trims: Add $5–$15/sqm

✅ Total Estimate: $55–$90 per square metre, installed and finished.

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Which Is Cheaper Overall?

🟢 In General: Drywall is slightly cheaper than paneling in Mornington when comparing standard finishes.

However, here’s a more nuanced cost comparison:

Feature	Drywall	Paneling
Base material cost	Lower	Higher (varies by type)
Installation	Slower, needs jointing/sanding	Faster, more straightforward
Finishing	Needs paint, joint compound	May need paint or stain
Durability	Moderate (prone to dents)	Higher if timber/composite
Visual Appeal	Basic, flat	High—adds texture & charm

While drywall is generally more economical, paneling offers greater aesthetic value, especially for beachside homes or Hamptons-inspired interiors popular around Mornington and Mount Eliza.

When Is Paneling the Better Choice?

For homeowners aiming to elevate the design of their property, paneling is increasingly used in:

• Accent walls in living rooms or entryways
• Ceiling applications
• Bathroom renovations (especially with PVC waterproof panels)
• Beach houses or Airbnb properties near Dromana or Red Hill, where aesthetics can affect rental value

In some cases, paneling can even be installed directly over old walls—saving on demolition and prep, thereby reducing labour costs.

When to Stick With Drywall

Drywall remains the default choice for:

• New builds
• Budget-conscious renovations
• Commercial properties in Mornington’s town centre
• Properties where smooth paint-ready walls are preferred

It’s especially suitable in multi-room renovations where uniformity is key, and custom paneling would significantly increase cost.

Local Market Insight: Mornington Peninsula Trends

According to local renovation specialists like Peninsula Plastering and South East Wall Linings, paneling requests have spiked post-2022 as homeowners sought to add personality to interiors after COVID lockdowns. However, supply chain issues have occasionally affected pricing, particularly for imported MDF and timber panels.

Also worth noting: labour shortages in the construction and renovation sector across Mornington and surrounding suburbs like Frankston South and Mount Eliza have driven up costs for both drywall and paneling installs.

Final Verdict: What’s Right for You?

So, is it cheaper to do paneling or drywall in Mornington? Strictly by numbers, drywall is more cost-effective, especially for large-scale projects. However, if you’re looking for value in terms of aesthetics, character, and resale appeal, paneling might deliver more bang for your buck—especially in coastal or character homes.

Ultimately, the best option depends on:

• Your budget
• The function of the space
• Your design goals
• The location and value of the property

Pro Tip for Mornington Homeowners

To maximize your ROI:

• Use drywall for general areas (bedrooms, halls)
• Add paneling as a feature in high-impact zones like foyers, lounges, or bathrooms
• Compare quotes from multiple local contractors
• Source materials from local suppliers like Bowens Mornington or Mitre 10 in Hastings to reduce freight costs

For more, visit https://morningtoncabinetmakers.com.au/.

Need Help Deciding?

If you’re a homeowner or investor in Mornington looking to make the most of your renovation budget, consult with a local interior designer or builder who understands coastal property trends. They can offer insights tailored to the Mornington Peninsula’s aesthetic and climate, helping you strike the perfect balance between cost and impact.