Shiplap Paneling: Everything You Need to Know

Shiplap paneling has almost become synonymous with farmhouse style, prompting modern farmhouse decor lovers to question its origin.

We designed this guide to help provide answers to some of the most common shiplap inquiries.

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What exactly is shiplap?

The shiplap we know today is likely named after a type of paneling historically used in ship construction.

Overlapping seams (called rabbets) created a waterproof shiplap barrier in sea vessels. These same seams were then used to create weathertight barriers in houses.

Because of this, shiplap has long been popular in locations with harsh climates.

Characterized by long, horizontally installed boards, shiplap has historically been linked with less formal dwellings such as cabins and cottages. This is in part due to its utility and in part, because it was usually fashioned from very inexpensive wood.

It is also important to note that shiplap is not just a period detail; it’s a classic architectural feature that will work equally well in modern homes.

What is so special about shiplap?

Shiplap is special for a variety of reasons.

The first of these is that shiplap was an original material in some older homes. When renovators uncover this original paneling, it automatically adds charm and authenticity to a reno project.

So, if you have ever seen an HGTV personality get excited when a wall of shiplap is uncovered, this is why!

Shiplap’s presence as a historical detail isn’t its only virtue, though. Shiplap is a classic wall covering.

White painted paneling is a staple of several decorating styles; in addition to farmhouse design, transitional and cottage styles also embrace walls covered in white wood.

The popularity of shiplap may ebb and flow in the eye of the public as a decorating prize. But what will not change is the fact that shiplap paneling is a classic home detail.

Does shiplap paneling have to be installed horizontally?

When most of us think of shiplap paneling, we picture it positioned horizontally.

When shiplap is installed parallel to the floor, the eye is drawn from wall to wall. This can make a room feel more spacious.

However, there is no design rule that says shiplap has to be positioned horizontally.

Installing shiplap vertically can help focus the eye on the room’s height instead and make the space feel taller.

If you are looking for a twist on traditional shiplap, install your panels vertically. When you install them from floor to ceiling, it will pull the eye up.

Or forget the walls altogether and instead, create a statement by installing your shiplap just on the ceiling.

Is shiplap paneling real wood?

Yes, traditional shiplap is made of pine or another rough-hewn, inexpensive wood.

As we mentioned previously, authentic shiplap is made of jointed timber planks. These planks were often used as exterior siding on houses and outbuildings.

Wooden shiplap historically has had a rabbet on each edge. The rabbet allows the boards to overlap and creates a watertight seal. This overlap also helps create the popular nickel gap that shiplap is known for.

The nickel gap is the space between shiplap boards. The nickel gap got its name because it is possible to fit a nickel into each of the gaps.

Today, shiplap can be made of any of a number of materials, from wood to vinyl to wallpaper.

What is the difference between shiplap paneling and tongue and groove?

The way the pieces fit together is the biggest difference between shiplap paneling and tongue and groove.

The edges of shiplap boards overlap each other slightly. However, tongue and groove boards fit snugly together, snapping in place almost like puzzle pieces.

Each piece of tongue and groove has a shallow channel cut all the way down one side of the board. This is the groove. The other edge contains the “tongue”, a narrow protrusion designed to fit precisely into the next piece’s groove.

There are some visual differences between shiplap and tongue and groove as well.

For instance, shiplap paneling boards are often quite a bit wider than traditional tongue and groove boards.

Also, while tongue and groove paneling can be painted any color, it is often left in a natural wood tone.

Are shiplap paneling walls going out of style?

Nope, shiplap is not going “out of style.”

It is true that some interior designers have started to utilize other materials to add texture and visual interest to walls.

However, we don’t think it is fair to say that shiplap is a trend that is ending.

Shiplap is a historic feature that is original to many homes.

Farmhouse style, in general, has a library of classics as its foundation. These include subway tiles, exposed beams, porcelain sinks, and hardwood floors, just to name a few.

Will any of these classic elements go “out of style”? We don’t think so. Neither will shiplap.

However, if you are looking to update your use of shiplap, consider these options:

• Add bold color

• Install the shiplap vertically

• Use shiplap as an accent instead of a feature wall

Where can I buy shiplap paneling?

One of the best sources for shiplap walls is UFP-Edge. They have an enormous selection of shiplap available in many colors and factory-applied wood finishes.

They also have a reputation for manufacturing very high-quality products.

UFP-Edge shiplap products are also available at Home Depot if you are not a fan of ordering online.

Seek out a local lumber company if you are looking for raw, hardwood shiplap with genuine rabbets. They will be able to order shiplap according to your specifications.

Finally, if you don’t have to have genuine shiplap, you can visit a number of retailers who offer a variety of alternatives.

Consider Home Depot’s collection of shiplap wallpaper, Target’s peel and stick wallpaper, or Stikwood’s peel and stick planks.

How do you install shiplap?

The process for installing shiplap paneling depends on the type of wall covering you ultimately decide upon.

Here are some of our favorite tutorials for getting that shiplap look!

HOW TO INSTALL SHIPLAP

DIY SHIPLAP TUTORIAL

DIY FAUX SHIPLAP

Conclusion

Adding shiplap to your walls is a great way to add character and visual interest to any room.

Whether you opt for the real thing or a more budget-friendly alternative, we hope this guide has given you all the information you need to get started on your shiplap journey!

What are your thoughts on shiplap? Please share them with us in the comments!