He or you will be able to find pine tongue & groove at any good home improvement store or lumber yard - it commonly used for porch decks. A suggestion - Home Depot sells Pro's Choice Decorative Planking Cape Cod Wainscotting, it's primed white and ready for painting. I think this may be more budget friendly! It comes in chair rail and 8ft lengths, goes up easily and fast - I've use the chair rail ver. They also have it in solid pine: 3/4 In. Wainscot is highly durable and sturdyÂable to withstand the wear and tear of everyday life, making it perfect for every room in the house. It is recommended to use ProÂs Choice 3/4 In. Pine Trim Kit with pregrooved Base and Chair Rail molding. Package contains 8 Pieces Solid Pine. Actual Size 11/16 In. Thick x 3 In. Wide x 31 3/4 In. Long. Installed Coverage 24 In. Wide x 31 3/4 In. High (5.29 Sq. Ft.). Actual height when used with ProÂs Choice Wainscot Trim=36 1/4 In. Jim

The paneling is not designed to match at the 4' ends, but there is plastic molding(T shaped) available to make that joint. The long sides are designed to mate. If you decide to do that idea, I would not use the T molding, rather stagger the 4' seams and use a filler to make those seams disappear---easy emough to do when covered with paint. You could use a home made tool to scribe the filler to match the bead design. As for installing, use finish nails in the grooves of the bead pattern and the same filler to fill the nail holes.

I would call in a qualified contractor to look at available options. Yeah, unless, you are TIGHT, with the AHJ, or loose with the grease, they might allow it, are you kidding me, though. And actually, not to sound rude, it's not obvious that you are using licensed, qulified, contractors, they would have already said no, without ever seeing it, just like me. The only waiver, you would get is for the 36" HORIZONTAL, and probably only if you beg or it's historical. That clearance is for US, so it's safe, right Bus? No freakin' way on the ceiling, if you do, I want some pictures of the install, and the inspector signing the final. KEN

My living area is exposed with 1x10 planks. I painted them white, but no caulk. I plan on caulking, filling knot holes, etc. and repainting to make it look more "refined." Expansion/contraction is always present in wood, but should not be a huge concern in a conditioned space. You mentioned panels: Is this solid wood or plywood? Plywood is even less likely to be an issue. Lastly, as mentioned, use a high-quality caulk: Price is proportional to quality. Some sealants allow for 150% elongation, which is insane for interior applications. And, don't forget to prime the joint BEFORE caulking. Good Luck!