What is Shiplap? An Ultimate Guide to a Stunning Wall Transformation

Shiplap is known as an easy to install, versatile choice if you want to add wood wall accents to your home. It also has become a favorite for homeowners and designers alike. If you’ve ever wondered what is shiplap or why it’s so popular, this article is for you.

While shiplap offers a cozy, farmhouse-style look, other wall paneling options like tongue and groove, beadboard, and nickel gap provide different styles and finishes. Learn more about these options to make better choices for your next home project!

What is Shiplap?

Shiplap is a type of wooden board used for walls, ceilings, and even exterior siding. Each board has a special groove (called a rabbet) cut into the top and bottom edges. This design allows the boards to overlap very lightly. Shiplap is now getting more popular, especially in rustic-styled houses. 

Horizontal shiplap is the most common type, but you can actually install it vertically or even diagonally. Each direction or placement creates a different effect and look. For example, horizontal shiplap makes the room look wider, while the vertical creates an illusion or higher ceilings.

Shiplap Vs Other Wall Paneling: Key Comparison

When choosing wall paneling, you might wonder what is shiplap, but it isn’t your only option. Other popular choices include tongue and groove, beadboard, and nickel gap. Each has its own style and installation method. Here’s how they differ from shiplap:

Shiplap vs Tongue and Groove

Both shiplap and tongue and groove boards fit together to create smooth wall panels. The main difference lies in how they connect:

• Shiplap: Boards overlap each other through a rabbet joint. This results in a visible gap between boards, giving a casual, coastal look.
• Tongue and Groove: One board has a “tongue” that fits into the “groove” of another. The overall look tends to be more polished and traditional.

Shiplap is easier to install since it doesn’t need to be perfectly tight. On the other hand, the tongue and groove require more precision.

Beadboard vs Shiplap

Shiplap vs beadboard comparison usually centers around how narrow the panel is. Beadboard generally has more narrow panels with smaller vertical grooves running along the boards. These are other differences between the two:

• Beadboard gives a classic and more cottage-style look. Many people often use it in kitchens, bathrooms, or shiplap wainscoting.
• Shiplap, in contrast, usually has wider boards and horizontal lines, giving a more modern or farmhouse style.

In terms of installation, the beadboard requires more attention because you need to ensure the matching grooves.

Nickel Gap vs Shiplap

Nickel gap panels are similar to shiplap but have a narrower, consistent gap between boards, usually about the width of a nickel. Shiplap gaps are usually wider and more noticeable. Finally, it depends on your design taste and overall look you want to achieve.

In most projects, nickel gap is chosen if they want a more sleek and modern look, while shiplap works better for rustic and casual style.

Read More: Wood Maintenance Guide: Protecting and Preserving Your Wall Panels

Shiplap Installation Cost: What to Expect

Is shiplap expensive? The cost of installing shiplap depends on several things. First, it depends on the type of wood you choose. The size of your walls will also directly affect how intense the labor work is going to be.

Generally, the professional installation cost around $5-$15 per square foot. If you decide to install it yourself, you’ll probably need around $2-$8 per square foot for the tools and equipment. 

Shiplap is generally affordable compared to other wall paneling options, especially if you install it yourself. If you are wondering how much does shiplap cost, it varies based on the wood type. It can start from 2$ to $20 per square foot if you choose more premium material.

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How to Install Shiplap: A Step-by-Step Guide

After knowing the shiplap installation cost, you might want to install it yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide to install shiplap that you can try:

• Prepare the wall: Remove any old trim, patch holes, and make sure the wall is clean.
• Measure and plan: Decide if you want horizontal or vertical boards and measure your wall.
• Cut boards to size: Use a saw to cut boards to the correct length.
• Attach boards to the wall: Start at the bottom (for horizontal boards) and use nails or a nail gun to secure each board.
• Leave small gaps: Don’t worry about perfect alignment; the gaps are part of the shiplap look.
• Fill nail holes (optional): You can fill and paint over nail holes for a cleaner finish.
• Paint or stain: Finish the wall with your preferred color or wood stain.

Conclusion

Shiplap is just one of many wall paneling options, and each style has its own charm. Shiplap is perfect if you want a casual, easy to install, or farmhouse style. Tongue and groove is more polished, while beadboard is more detailed. Nickel gap is similar to beadboard which is classic and detailed.

If you are thinking about considering other types of wall paneling, explore The Panel Hub’s acoustic and decorative wall panels. Enjoy free shipping today!

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FAQ About What is Shiplap

What is so special about shiplap?

Firstly, shiplap is a go-to choice due to its distinctive horizontal lines and texture. Unlike smooth wood panels, shiplap adds deeper visual character to a room. It is also versatile, as you can install it horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. When it comes to DIY-friendliness, shiplap is also the right choice to save cost from professional installation, as it only needs basic tools.

What are the disadvantages of shiplap?

Despite its superiority, shiplap has some downsides. One of its key disadvantages is visible gaps that can collect dust or dirt over time. If installed in bathrooms or humid areas without proper sealing, wood shiplap can warp or grow mold. Cost-wise, shiplap can get expensive, especially if you choose cedar or hardwood.

Is shiplap cheaper than drywall?

Drywall is generally cheaper than shiplap, both in terms of material and installation costs. Drywall can be the better budget-friendly option, but shiplap adds visual texture and style.