Learn everything you need to know about shiplap, including installation considerations and whether or not to go faux.
Patricia Shannon is a freelance homes writer for Better Homes & Gardens with over a decade of editorial experience. Her areas of expertise include decorating, cleaning, and how-to content. Patricia is also a regular contributor with Southern Living and Coastal Living magazines. Grooved Mdf Panels
Call it the farmhouse effect, but just about everyone seems to have jumped on the shiplap trend over the past few years; but precisely what is shiplap, and what makes it so popular? Its consistent use likely relates to the fact that it's a timeless interior design element, says Toronto-based designer Ashley Montgomery. "It brings texture, depth, and interest to a space and is an easy way to dress up large walls," she says. Beyond the basics, there's much to learn about these charming rustic planks.
Shiplap might be relatively new on the scene for interior design, but the more practical use of shiplap has been around far longer. Shiplap originally referred to the horizontal boards or planks used to construct boats. They employed a tight groove system that kept water out and, thus, boats afloat. Shiplap was eventually used for a similar function (aside from the floating part) on the exterior of homes, but today has morphed into an aesthetic element. It is most often used in the interior of homes to bring texture and character to drywall or even help differentiate spaces within an open floor plan.
There are a variety of wall applications that look similar to shiplap, namely nickel gap and tongue and groove. You'll want to know the difference and determine which best suits your preferences before you hit the hardware store or loop in your contractor. "They all look very similar to the untrained eye," Montgomery says. "However, each of them brings a unique texture to a space."
The planks of shiplap, nickel gap, and tongue and groove connect differently, which results in three different looks but with a similar effect. "Shiplap leaves a small gap between each board while tongue and groove leaves a flatter surface with boards more tightly joined together. Nickel gap has more of a square gap," explains Montgomery. To help visualize, search for images in each of the three categories online and nail down which appeals most to you and your space.
When it comes to the question of whether to go for faux shiplap or the real thing, Montgomery says it comes down to budget and working with what you've got. For those needing a more economical solution, faux shiplap styles or DIY versions can be smart choices. From peel-and-stick shiplap wallpaper to finished shiplap panels that you can find in many home improvement stores, the faux route comes with plenty of options to suit your skill level and intended investment.
Before installing shiplap, there are a few things to keep in mind. Montgomery says shiplap should always be painted after it's installed. This way, you'll hide any nail holes and avoid scuffing, dirty fingerprints, and other install-related blunders. While it's certainly traditional to hang shiplap horizontally, consider swapping to a vertical orientation if your space allows. "Each one offers a unique look, but it depends on the space or area," she says. "Ask yourself: Do you want to heighten your space or lengthen it?"
It's important to note that as long as shiplap is properly installed, it's safe for use in high-moisture areas like baths, patios, and more. Calling on professional installation for these tricky areas will likely be the best route.
Media Wall Panel What is shiplap used for? Shiplap is an interior design element that's both trendy and steeped in tradition. Montgomery says which characteristic you decide to play up is entirely dependent on application and finishes, but using shiplap in unexpected places adds an additional level of interest. Here are a few of her favorite ways to use shiplap: