A Quick Guide on Shiplaps: Meaning, Tips, and Installation

A Quick Guide on Shiplaps: Meaning, Tips, and Installation
5 min read

Let’s talk about shiplaps, shall we? There are all kinds of wall coverings, and shiplap happens to be one of them. The question is - Can you put these on textured walls? On second thought, it’s all you need to know. 

You may buy textured shiplap for the wall, but before you make the purchase, here’s a post that tells you everything about it. We are going to tell you what it is, a few tips, and the installation bit. Are you ready to dive into this post? 

What’s Shiplap, anyway? 

Shiplap is a specific kind of wood paneling that is used for waterproofing ships. The panels have a top and bottom with a groove cut in between. This makes the panel overlap, creating a tight seal. So, yes, it is waterproof too. Shiplap is mostly used for the outside of your house. 

Shiplaps have become quite popular all around the globe, but they are not so cheap. The cost could be a few hundreds of dollars to thousands of dollars, depending on whether you want it for the exteriors or just for one room. 

Shiplap Tips for Novices. 

There are a few cheaper alternatives in case you do not want to spend thousands of dollars. For example, people might purchase cheap plywood instead. These can be nailed to your wall - there will be spaces in between that will look like shiplap. You can paint them white and make it look like shiplap. But is it the real deal? Perhaps not! 

There is another option which is a shiplap wallpaper. It’s great if you do not have the time or willingness to nail wood to your home walls. Yes, it looks great too! 

But don’t just settle for these ideas - you can also install shiplap on the wall. Installing shiplap everywhere in the room can be expensive, so use it on one wall. This one’s doable and not as expensive too. 

Clean the Shiplap Walls Regularly. 

The cute space you see in between the walls will also attract dust, so you need to keep these clean. Clean the spaces regularly to ensure there is no settled dust or any other contaminant. You want to keep your shiplaps clean and good-looking. 

But the catch is - the small is extremely small, so you might not even notice the dust. So, make sure it is a ritual for you to clean out the dust. 

Install Them The Way You Like! 

The best part about shiplaps is that you may install them the way you like. There is complete freedom here! You can fit them vertically or horizontally. There is no specific way to place the shiplap, so use it the way you like. If you are placing them horizontally, you are making the room look spacious and large. In case you are placing the shiplap vertically, you will make your ceiling look tall. 

No matter how you install the shiplap, it is going to make your room look large enough. So, feel free to install it on one wall or all the walls in a room. 

Be Careful While Painting. 

If you have decided to paint the shiplap, make sure you are very careful. The gaps will catch dust, but they are also prone to catching paint. Purchase a small brush and then paint the gaps. Once you are done, use a roller all over the paneling. 

Installation Isn’t a Headache. 

Shiplap is lightweight - you can glue it on the wall or nail it. Call a professional or perhaps use the instructions. These days you can find DIY videos for the same. But of course, purchase the ship laps from a good supplier. Don’t settle for low-quality ones. 

There is a method known as furring which can help hide the minor imperfections in your wall. It will also prevent any kind of damage to the wall. And the best part is - it is easy to remove too. 

Always remember that a shiplap is mostly installed in a dry area. In case you plan to install it in a bathroom, near a sink, or a kitchen, you have to waterproof it. Waterproofing treatment requires a good plumber. 

You need a hammer, nails, adhesive, etc for the job, but personally, we’d suggest you let a professional handle it. This will help ensure that the job is getting done without any glitches or breakage. 

Summing up 

Are you ready to get shiplaps for your wall? If yes, choose a good supplier, read the reviews, ratings, and the experience. 

Purchasing shiplaps and installing them on the wall can bring the room to life. 



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Matheson Prince 2
hi i am an experinced writer.
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