What is shiplap, and how is it used today in home-improvement and renovations? Decades ago, shiplap were simply wooden boards that were laid horizontally as siding on the exterior of a building such as a home, a barn, woodsheds, and so forth. Today, it’s also commonly used on interior walls to add extra texture, interest, and visual appeal.
When considering shiplap for any interior decorating needs, factor in a few basics about the products available today as well as how it’s used.
In what form is shiplap available?
Shiplap is available today in planks of varying widths as well as panels. Such planks and boards are available as real wood or designed to look like fake wood. Today’s shiplap planks are designed to butt up against one another top to bottom, and most have grooves or slots that hold the pieces together, known as rabbets.
Home improvement stores often carry a variety of shiplap products, from wall planks to wall panels, even some wall plank kits. Planks can be found in varying lengths, though most common are 8 feet to 12 feet long. Most are about 5½ inches wide, although some come as wide as 8 inches. Wall plank kits themselves average about $150 for a roughly 16 ft.² coverage area.
Use discretion with shiplap interior walls
Use description when it comes to using shiplap on interior walls. While shiplap definitely adds character to any room, it can be overwhelming if the wood is too dark or if the room is too small. Today, shiplap paneling or planks are often used to accent one wall or in an area where walls are broken up, such as in a kitchen or bathroom.
Color choices are important
When using shiplap in a small room such as an entryway, a bathroom, a kitchen, or so forth, the lighter the color the better. This strategy gives the room a more elegant, interesting appeal and can actually make a small space look bigger. Shiplap boards come in a variety of colors, from whitewashed to mixed grays and browns, and some is available in darker browns that give a genuine wood plank (think barn-like appeal), complete with wood knots.
Horizontal or Vertical?
In most uses over the years, shiplap has been installed on a horizontal plane, but installing it on the vertical is also quite appealing. However, placement is key to avoid that old wood paneling affect, which is outdated these days. Choosing to accent a single wall with either vertical or horizontal shiplap planks imbues a cozy feel in any room, whether a bedroom, living room, or kitchen, and also adds a rustic touch to interior décor.
Use of shiplap for interior walls or even as an focal accent installation in a corner or in an oddly shaped room has become increasingly popular, offering a rustic, farmhouse feel for your home. Choose colors carefully so your shiplap project produces the results you desire for both functionality, appearance, and overall appeal. All Pro Painting comes highly recommended for Indianapolis shiplap projects.
