Ceramic and porcelain tile are affordable and durable flooring materials that complement wood paneling. Since wood panels tend to darken a room's overall appearance, it is best to choose light-colored ceramic or porcelain tile. Tile colors including beige, tan, white, off-white, eggshell, butternut or light brown harmonize with most shades of wall paneling.
Neutral earth-tone carpet colors coordinate with the natural wood grains in wall paneling. Install light-colored wall-to-wall carpet for the best overall design. Choose contemporary carpet styles like berber, California shag and frieze to modernize your living space. Avoid indoor-outdoor carpet that makes your wall paneling look commercial.
Light-colored slate tile has color variations similar to those found in wood paneling. Opt for slate tile that has light brown or golden undertones and avoid slate tile with black undertones. Dark slate does not complement wall paneling and reduces the appearance of the size of the room.
Vinyl and linoleum are common flooring materials that are less expensive to install than ceramic, porcelain or slate tile. Select a vinyl or linoleum that is not heavily patterned or the design might clash with your woodgrain paneling. Opt for modern marble or stone designs that are simple and have subtle patterns. Vinyl and linoleum are easy to clean and require little maintenance.