Shiplap became a popular design element after appearing on popular home improvement and DIY shows. These horizontal wood planks add instant warmth and character to a space and suit the modern farmhouse design aesthetic. But what is shiplap, and how can you install it in your home? Our comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to bring shiplap’s rustic appeal into your home.

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What Is Shiplap?

Shiplap is made by overlapping horizontal wooden boards, but this trendy farmhouse-style design element has a long history. Originally, these planks weren’t about aesthetics. Shiplap was a part of shipbuilding, giving it its name, and was later used in construction.

The most essential part of shiplap is the channel cut along the top and bottom edges of the board, called the rabbet. The rabbet allows the boards to overlap slightly, creating a tight seal that protects against wind and moisture.

While it’s still used in some exterior construction projects, shiplap today is more commonly used for its visual appeal in home decor and interior design. It’s an excellent way to add charm to interior walls.

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Shiplap Materials

Here are materials you could use to recreate the shiplap look and why they might be right (or wrong) for your DIY project:

• Medium-density fiberboard (MDF): This cost-effective option has a smooth finish and is easy to paint. However, MDF is susceptible to moisture damage and is less durable than other options.
• Plywood: Plywood mimics the look of shiplap while being both strong and stable and is more affordable than solid wood. Some people might not like the visible wood grain. It often requires priming to hide imperfections in the material.
• PVC/vinyl: This water-resistant and low-maintenance option is lightweight, which makes it easy to install. You can get vinyl planks that mimic woodgrain for a faux shiplap look, but they may lack wood’s natural warmth.
• Wood: This option is the most authentic and durable look for a shiplap wall. However, it is the most expensive option, and you’ll need to maintain the wood regularly by staining and sealing it.

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Shiplap Sizes

There is no standard size for shiplap boards. They come in various dimensions to suit different applications and aesthetics, from wall paneling to shiplap ceilings.

• Width: Shiplap has numerous widths, but the most common are five and one-half inches and seven and one-fourth inches. Wider boards create a more relaxed and casual look in a room, while narrower boards provide a refined or traditional look.
• Thickness: Shiplap thickness usually ranges between one-fourth to three-fourths of an inch. Thicker boards can help create a more dimensional look on a wall, but thinner boards are easier to cut and install.
• Length: The length of your boards will depend on your wall size. Most retailers sell boards in longer lengths, often eight feet or more, so you can cut them to fit the dimensions of your wall.

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Where Can You Use Shiplap Walls?

Shiplap is both attractive and adaptable. It can elevate the look of a room by adding warmth and texture. Here are some ideal places to incorporate shiplap in your home:

• Bathroom: Shiplap’s moisture resistance makes it a practical choice for bathrooms. It can soften the look of hard ceramic tiles and fixtures.
• Bedroom: Shiplap walls in the bedroom create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, creating the perfect backdrop for your bed.
• Dining room: Bring rustic elegance to your home with a shiplap wall in the dining room. It creates an appealing backdrop for mealtime.
• Entryways: Shiplap creates a great first impression in your entryway, setting the tone for welcoming guests.
• Home office: Shiplap can be a sophisticated addition to a home office, creating visual interest for online meetings.
• Kitchen: Pair shiplap with open shelving and butcher block or marble countertops to bring farmhouse charm or coastal chic vibes to your kitchen.
• Living room: Shiplap is a beautiful addition to a living room and can make the space feel relaxed for gathering with friends and family.

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Shiplap Wall Design Ideas

Shiplap is a versatile design element, and you can use it to achieve a range of looks and aesthetics. Use these ideas as inspiration for personalizing your space.

Accent Walls

A single shiplap accent wall makes a striking statement without overwhelming a room or your budget. Consider a darker paint color to add a dramatic focal point, perhaps behind a fireplace, headboard, or entertainment center. This budget-friendly feature wall option works well in living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms.

Monochromatic Shiplap

Opt for a monochromatic painted shiplap for a clean, modern look, especially in smaller spaces. Create this seamless, textured look by painting the boards and the walls the same color. The shiplap adds texture without being overwhelming. Use white shiplap for a light and airy feel.

Natural Wood Shiplap

Embrace a simple style by leaving your wood unfinished or staining it. Sealing the boards will help protect them from moisture. This option works well with neutral wall colors, letting the plank walls take center stage and creating a cabin-inspired design. Choose this style for bedrooms, living rooms, and entryways.

Two-Toned Shiplap

Create a two-toned shiplap wall by alternating paint colors on your boards, contrasting light boards with darker ones. This technique gives the shiplap a nautical style. Two-toned shiplap is a great way to highlight architectural features such as built-in bookshelves or alcoves.

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How To Install Shiplap Walls

This overview will give you basic knowledge of how to DIY a shiplap wall. The process for installing the shiplap will vary depending on your chosen materials and wall dimensions. 

Planning Your Shiplap Wall

Good planning is the key to creating a charming shiplap wall. Start by measuring the wall’s height and width to determine how much material you’ll need. Add 10% to your calculations to account for cuts and waste.

Next, decide on your layout pattern (horizontal, vertical, or even chevron) and consider the placement of seams and cuts around outlets and windows.

Gather all the necessary tools and materials before you start installation:

• Hammer
• Level
• Nail gun
• Saw
• Tape measure
• Your chosen shiplap materials

Preparing the Wall

Prep your walls for the shiplap makeover by ensuring they are smooth and structurally sound. Remove outlet covers and switchplates, then patch any holes or cracks. Clean the wall thoroughly with a damp cloth to remove dust and cobwebs.

Next, find the wall studs behind the drywall. Use a stud finder to locate them and mark their position lightly with a pencil. The location of the studs helps guide how you secure the shiplap panels or boards to the wall. Use a level to establish a straight line as your starting point for nailing the first row of boards.

Installing Shiplap Boards

Start installation once you have a prepped wall and a clear plan. Here’s a basic step-by-step tutorial on how to install your shiplap wall:

1. Start at the bottom: Attach the first board along the bottom edge of the wall, using your level and pencil marks to ensure it is level. Secure it with nails. If using construction adhesive, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. Work your way up: Slide the next board’s tongue and groove into the channel of the previous board. Nail the second board by following the stud markings and keeping it level. Repeat this process as you work your way up the wall.
3. Cut around obstacles: Measure and carefully cut your shiplap boards to fit neatly around outlets or other obstacles. You can use a jigsaw to make more intricate cuts.
4. Keep nailing consistent: Follow a consistent nailing pattern for a professional-looking installation. The typical nailing pattern for shiplap boards is driving two nails into the board at an angle into the wall stud behind it.

Finishing Touches

These finishing touches will complete the look and make your wall look more polished and professionally installed.

1. Fill: Fill any nail holes with a wood filler and allow them to dry completely. Sand the spackled areas smooth before painting.
2. Caulk: Apply a thin caulk line along gaps between the boards and the wall edge. Let the caulk dry according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
3. Paint: Choose a paint suitable for your chosen material type. Apply even coats until you achieve the desired look.
4. Trim: Reattach your outlet covers and switch plates. Then, add trim elements such as crown molding or baseboards to complete the look.
5. Clean up: Take a moment to admire your work, and then clean up any debris left behind from the project.

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Our Conclusion

Shiplap has become a design staple that elevates any room in your home, offering farmhouse charm and surprising versatility. To incorporate shiplap wood paneling into your space, start by exploring different materials and stunning design ideas. The installation process is achievable for DIY enthusiasts with careful planning. However, we recommend consulting a professional contractor if you require more complex work.

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FAQ About Shiplap Walls

Does shiplap make a room look bigger or smaller?

Shiplap makes a room look bigger. Horizontal shiplap can make a room appear wider, while vertical shiplap can draw the eye up and make a ceiling seem higher.

How do I cut shiplap boards?

You can cut shiplap boards using saws for straight edges or jigsaws for intricate cuts around outlets and other obstacles.

Is shiplap expensive?

The cost of shiplap depends on the material. Shiplap typically costs between $7 and $18 per square foot, according to Fixr. Solid wood is the most expensive option, while medium-density fiberboard is the most affordable.

What is the best wood to use for shiplap?

The best wood to use for shiplap is one that is durable and moisture-resistant and fits your budget. Popular wood choices for shiplap include cedar, pine, and poplar. 

What is the new trend instead of shiplap?

Board-and-batten siding is the new trend instead of shiplap. It’s a similar design element that uses wider vertical boards with a flat trim board to cover the seams.

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