How to Install Shiplap Walls: A Complete Guide

What Is Shiplap?

Shiplap is a type of wooden board with a rabbeted edge, allowing each plank to overlap the next and create a tight seal. Originally used in shipbuilding and later in construction, shiplap is now a popular design element in homes for its rustic charm and timeless appeal. The rabbet, or channel, cut along the top and bottom edges of each board is what makes shiplap unique, enabling the boards to fit snugly together and protect against wind and moisture.

Why Shiplap Is Popular

Shiplap has surged in popularity due to its versatility and aesthetic appeal. It adds texture and character to walls, creating a cozy, farmhouse-inspired ambiance. Shiplap works well in various design styles, from rustic to modern, making it a favorite among homeowners and interior designers alike. Its ability to blend seamlessly with different decor styles and its durability make it a top choice for accent walls, ceilings, and even backsplashes.

Planning Your Shiplap Wall

Good planning is essential for a successful shiplap wall installation. 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. Decide on your layout pattern—horizontal, vertical, or even chevron—and consider the placement of seams and cuts around outlets and windows.

Materials Needed

• Shiplap boards or 7/8-inch AC plywood
• 2-inch finish nails
• 1/8-inch spacers or wooden craft sticks
• Paint for the shiplap boards
• Primer (if needed)
• Wood filler or spackle
• Caulk (paintable)
• Molding strips for corners (optional)

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. Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs behind the drywall 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 Walls

With your materials prepared, you’re ready to begin the installation process. Follow these steps for a successful shiplap wall installation:

Locate and Mark Wall Studs

Use a stud finder to locate the vertical studs in your wall. Mark their positions with a pencil or chalk line from top to bottom. These marks will guide you in nailing the shiplap boards securely to the wall.

Install the First Row

Start at the bottom of the wall, ensuring your first board is level. This row sets the foundation for the entire wall, so take extra care to get it right. Use a level to check that the board is straight before securing it to the wall studs with nails. Nail the board at each marked stud to ensure it holds firmly and securely.

Continue the Installation

Work your way up the wall, using spacers or craft sticks between boards to create consistent gaps. These gaps contribute to the characteristic shiplap look. When you reach the end of a row, use the cut-off portion to start the next row for a staggered effect. This pattern adds visual interest and ensures that the joints are not aligned, which can enhance the wall’s strength and stability.

Finishing Shiplap Walls

After installing your shiplap boards, it’s time to add the finishing touches that will elevate the overall look of your wall:

• Fill any visible nail holes with wood filler or spackle, then sand smooth once dry.
• Touch up these areas with paint if necessary.
• If you’ve chosen to add trim around corners or edges, install these pieces now, using a nail gun or hammer and finishing nails.
• Caulk any gaps between the shiplap and adjoining walls or ceilings for a seamless appearance. Use paintable caulk and smooth it with your finger or a caulk tool for a professional finish.
• Reinstall any baseboards, outlet covers, or other fixtures you removed at the beginning of the project. Make sure to adjust their placement to account for the added thickness of the shiplap.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When installing shiplap, be aware of these common pitfalls:

• Failing to acclimate the wood to your home’s environment before installation
• Not checking for level and plumb as you go, resulting in crooked lines
• Forgetting to leave space for the expansion and contraction of the wood
• Overdriving nails, which can split the wood or create dimples
• Neglecting to paint or seal all sides of the boards, potentially leading to warping

Shiplap Wall Ideas

Shiplap walls can be used in various creative ways to enhance your home’s design:

Shiplap Ceilings

Shiplap ceilings add a touch of rustic charm and can make a room feel more spacious and inviting.

Shiplap Walls for a Bookshelf

Use shiplap as a backdrop for built-in bookshelves to create a cozy, inviting reading nook.

Shiplap Around a Fireplace

Shiplap around a fireplace creates a focal point and adds warmth to the room.

Shiplap as a Kitchen Backsplash

Shiplap can be used as a kitchen backsplash to make your cooking space unique. Proper sealing and maintenance will protect it against stains and water damage. Use a light-colored or whitewashed shiplap to brighten your kitchen space, or choose a darker stain to create a more dramatic contrast with light-colored cabinetry.

Shiplap for a Door

Barn doors are a statement all on their own, but you can take things a step further by incorporating shiplap. Shiplap barn doors can be used as room dividers, closet doors, or even as decorative elements in open floor plans. You can customize the finish to match your decor, whether you prefer a weathered look or a sleek, modern one.

Diagonal Shiplap Walls

Position the planks diagonally or in a chevron pattern for a truly eye-catching shiplap wall design. This unexpected orientation adds visual interest and can make a space feel larger. Diagonal shiplap is particularly effective on accent walls. This technique works well in entryways, living rooms, or even as a bedroom headboard, offering a fresh take on the classic shiplap look.

Textured Shiplap Boards

Adding texture to shiplap boards can elevate the visual interest of your walls. One way to add texture is by using reclaimed wood with its natural imperfections. You could also choose boards with a wire-brushed or hand-scraped finish. These textures catch light uniquely, creating subtle shadows that add depth to your walls. Textured shiplap works particularly well in spaces where you want to create a cozy, lived-in feel, such as family rooms or bedrooms.

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.

FAQs

Can shiplap be installed over drywall?

Yes, shiplap can be installed over drywall. Ensure the drywall is smooth and structurally sound before starting the installation.

How do I maintain shiplap walls?

Regularly clean shiplap walls with a damp cloth and touch up any paint or sealant as needed. In high-moisture areas, ensure the shiplap is properly sealed to prevent water damage.

Can shiplap be used in bathrooms?

Yes, shiplap can be used in bathrooms, but it’s important to use a moisture-resistant sealant to protect against humidity and water damage.

What is the best way to paint shiplap?

Apply two coats of paint to your shiplap boards, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly between applications. Paint all sides of the boards, including the edges, to ensure complete coverage.

How do I fix gaps in shiplap walls?

Use paintable caulk to fill any gaps between the shiplap and adjoining walls or ceilings. Smooth the caulk with your finger or a caulk tool for a professional finish.