How to Install a Shiplap Ceiling
- 1. Remove Everything from Your Ceiling Remove all your light fixtures, vent covers, crown moulding, etc.
- 2. Mark the Joists on Your Ceiling ...
- 3. Cut the Shiplap Boards to Size ...
- 4. Install Your Boards ...
- 5. Cut Holes for Lights and Other Ceiling Fixtures ...
- 6. Rip the Last Board ...
- 7. Caulk or Spackle and Paint Your Shiplap Boards (Optional) ...
How to install wainscoting on a ceiling?
- You may need to cut your beadboard to fit these areas.
- Due to the thickness of the beadboard panels, your outlet will be slightly recessed and not flush with the face plate.
- The easy solution is to use an electrical box extender.
- Install outlet box extension rings that allow you to bring the outlet to the wainscoting surface. ...
Can you use shiplap instead of drywall for interior walls?
You may even find shiplap behind drywall, as shiplap used to be used for the inside of houses, and has seen a resurgence in recent years, due to its aesthetic. So while shiplap may not be as viable as a wall’s building material, evident in its replacement over the years, it still can be used.
How to install MDF shiplap on interior walls?
- Cut and place boards to stagger cut ends from row to row. Repeat until wall is complete.
- If two boards meet at the same stud, place the first piece halfway onto the stud and nail. Start the next piece on the same stud. ...
- Never overlap boards.
How to install your suspended ceiling?
Planning
- Measure. First, get the exact measurements of the room where the suspended ceiling will be installed. Use special care in measuring any odd-shaped alcoves and bays.
- Decide on a Pattern. You can choose from either a 2x2 or a 2x4 pattern. ...
- Sketch Your Plan. Now that you've made these decisions, sketch the layout for the planned ceiling on graph paper. ...

What material is used for shiplap ceiling?
For our shiplap ceiling, we used a 1/8″ x 4′ x 8′ utility plywood. We used the table saw to make rip cuts 8″ wide. We were able to get 6 strips out of each piece of plywood.
Do you need drywall behind shiplap on a ceiling?
If don't already have drywall installed, you do not need it as a base for affixing shiplap. You can install shiplap directly to your studs to save on time, money, and mess.
How do you stagger a shiplap ceiling?
Stagger the planks Now that your level starter row is in place, stagger the end joints as you work your way up and down the wall, so that your end joints do not match up from row to row. To accomplish this look and minimize your waste, use your cut off piece from one row to start the next row.
Which way should shiplap run on a ceiling?
It should run perpendicular to the joists, with each side of the shiplap board able to be nailed into the joist. If you want your shiplap to run parallel to your joists, install furring strips perpendicular to your joists that you can nail the shiplap boards into instead.
Is it cheaper to drywall or shiplap?
Drywall panels are cheaper than shiplap per sq. ft., but once you factor in the cost of installation, shiplap usually comes out ahead as the more budget-friendly option. The average price for drywall is $15 per 4-by-8 foot panel or around $2.15 per sq.
Should you glue shiplap to drywall?
Shiplap planks can be fastened to walls either vertically or horizontally. Simply nail through the drywall directly into wall studs. You can use construction adhesive when installing on ceilings or over other surfaces, as long as they're in good condition.
Do you leave a gap between shiplap?
Spacing the Boards: Enlist spacers to create uniform gaps (typically 1/8 inch) between each board. You can use any type of spacer you'd like, such as the edge of a carpenter's square or tile spacers. Make sure that you position each board using the same spacer so the boards appear evenly spaced.
Do you start at the bottom or top when installing shiplap?
bottomInstalling The First Board What is this? By starting in the corners, you can make sure your boards are always aligned perfectly. Always install shiplap from the bottom up, it makes the installation process easier by using gravity to help hold the next board.
Do you stagger shiplap ceiling?
Staggering Shiplap Creates A Balanced Aesthetic When installing shiplap on a wall or ceiling that exceeds the length of your shiplap, you'll need to butt boards together. Stagger the shiplap boards so that the end joints are spread out along the wall or ceiling randomly.
What size nails do you use for shiplap on a ceiling?
We recommend using 16- or 18-gauge finish or brad nails. 1-½” to 2” in length should be sufficient. Both gauges are strong enough to hold the lumber securely, but small enough to not leave a large hole on the face of the board.
Is it expensive to shiplap a ceiling?
Ceiling. Shiplap ceiling costs range from $2.50 to $7 per square foot, depending on your materials. Paneling your ceiling with shiplap can bring elegance and interest to a room.
Can you put shiplap over drywall ceiling?
Good news—you don't have to! You can install shiplap right over the drywall. However—and this part is crucial—you must first take the time to find all the studs within your walls and mark them carefully before you place a single board.
Can you put shiplap over drywall ceiling?
Shiplap Directly on Ceiling Shiplap can be installed directly on the ceiling drywall if the ceiling is level and flat. Imperfections with the existing ceiling will be transferred to the shiplap or may prevent the shiplap boards from accurately lining up from side to side.
How do you insulate behind shiplap?
Detailed Steps to Insulate Behind ShiplapInstall a layer of home wrap. ... Seal gaps between window frames and door frames. ... Measure the distance between studs. ... Trim the fiberglass batt. ... Insert the fiberglass batt snugly between the studs. ... Cover the fiberglass insulation. ... Install the paneling.
Does shiplap help insulation?
Shiplap offers several protection options. Not only does it seal moisture on its own, but it is also tight. It is so easy to use felt paper underneath, exterior insulation and a vapor barrier too.
How do you hang shiplap over drywall?
1:283:23How to Install Shiplap | The Home Depot - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBe sure to stagger the cut ends from row to row. Cut the boards to fit at the beginning or end of aMoreBe sure to stagger the cut ends from row to row. Cut the boards to fit at the beginning or end of a row if necessary.
Types of Shiplap for a Ceiling
There are so many types of shiplap on the market, sometimes it can be overwhelming trying to decide which type to use. If you are unsure on what type you want to use for the wood tongue and groove ceiling, make sure to read this post on how to choose shiplap for your home first. Types of shiplap that can be used for a ceiling are
Covering Up Popcorn Ceiling
When I first bought this big historic house, there was so much work to be done. It was almost overwhelming the kind of shape that the house was in. For almost three full years, Patrick and I worked night and day to make this house the way we had always dreamed. Room by room, we gave the old girl a facelift.
Using Shiplap for a Ceiling
Although planking a ceiling with shiplap is a great way to cover up an old ceiling or outdated popcorn ceiling, it can also be put into a new space. It is important to plan for this type of ceiling by adding the appropriate strapping to the the ceiling joists if necessary.
The Cost of a Shiplap Ceiling
The cost of your shiplap ceiling will vary depending on which product you decide to go with. A lower quality, character grade pine planking will be significantly more affordable than milling your own shiplap or going with a cedar plank.
Size of Planks for a Wood Tongue and Groove Ceiling
The last decision you will want to make prior to beginning your shiplap ceiling is the size of your planks. Do you want a 3″ wide profile or a 5″? Perhaps your looking for a penny-lap look like I have done in my home. If you are making your own shiplap tongue and groove, you need to purchase your planks slightly larger than your desired profile.
How to Make a Shiplap Ceiling
Now that you have considered all the costs and size decision associated with installing a shiplap ceiling, let’s get started on the DIY! This process is much easier to do if you have two people for the job. If you aren’t able to find help, you will want to have ladders set up to aid in holding your planks in place.
How to Install a Shiplap Ceiling
Do you want to cover outdated popcorn ceilings and do you love the look of shiplap? Use this tutorial to create a beautiful shiplap ceiling.
What Is Shiplap?from nailgundepot.com
The term “shiplap” most likely gets its name from the manner in which ship hulls were once built, with planks overlapping one another to form a watertight joint.
What nailer to use for shiplap?from nailgundepot.com
Some installers prefer to use a lightweight flooring nailer, such as the Powernail 50F, which drives 18-gauge cleat nails.
How complex is shiplap installation?from nailgundepot.com
Shiplap installation can vary in complexity, depending on the surface it is being adhered to, the angle it is being installed, and other factors such as material composition. Always refer to your board manufacturer for specific instructions on how to install their product properly.
How much space between boards?from nailgundepot.com
The spacing between boards is traditionally 1/8”. To make sure boards are evenly spaced, place a nickel or quarter between the boards as a spacer.
Can shiplap be used as a nail gun?from nailgundepot.com
It's also not uncommon for shiplap installers to use either a finish nail gun or a framing nailer. If using pre-manufactured shiplap, consult the board manufacturer for fastener specific requirements. Nails: The type of nail you use ultimately depends on the nail gun you're using.
Is shiplap a functional material?from nailgundepot.com
Not only is shiplap functional, but it adds nice texture and dimension. The result is a series of horizontal seams that add interest to an otherwise flat, faceless surface.
Do you paint shiplap before nailing?from nailgundepot.com
If you plan to paint/sand the shiplap, do so before nailing the boards in place.
How to run joists perpendicular to each other?
If you find the joists are running the same direction as your shiplap, attach furring strips to the ceiling with a 16 nail gun into the joists before the shiplap planks to minimize the weight bearing on the joists.
What is the job of a shiplap joist?
The main job of joists is to connect the outside walls together and provide support to the ceiling materials in the room below. Ceiling joists are an important player in this project, because they support your roof from the inside and will act as the “mount” for your shiplap planks.
What do joists connect to?
Joists connect to the rafters, which is the load bearing support for your roof, and basically hold the frame of your roof together. Unless you have a flat roof, you have rafters and joists above your popcorn ceiling. Skipping this step could really damage your ceiling and ruin the whole shiplap ceiling project.
What to do after shiplap ceiling is painted?
After the planked ceiling is painted and dried, replace your light fixtures and vent covers, and enjoy a beautiful and bright new look! You may even want to put in a fun new farmhouse chandelier to complete the finished shiplap ceiling!
Why do you put shiplap on a wall?
The first shiplap plank you add to the wall is the most important to get nice and square because everything else will line up with that one.
How do I cut shiplap around a light fixture?
To cut the shiplap around light fixtures and air vents, use a hole cutter for the circular cuts and a multi-tool for the straight cuts, we cut along the markings so we could easily reattach our fixtures and vents over the shiplap ceiling.
Why do you put nails on the tongue side of a ceiling?
But we added them because the heavy texture on the ceiling didn’t make for a super flat surface.
How to make shiplap fit snugly against wall?
To make sure your shiplap fits snugly against the wall, use a scrap piece of wood, lay it against the wall, then draw the angle onto your shiplap board. Adjust your miter saw to the angle and cut off the excess piece. This will give you a nice tight fit against the wall. You can see an exact demonstration of this in the video below.
Why is it important to plan out your shiplap pattern?
It’s important to plan out your pattern prior to installing the shiplap. It helps reduce waste and you can plan for the start and end of a plank to be on a joist and then you can just repeat it all the way up.
How to finish a nail polish?
Finish by using the wax crayon from the finishing kit to fill the nail holes and the caulk to fill any gaps along the edges.. Remove excess wax using the scrubber pad and scraper. Use these lightly to avoid scuff marks.
Can you use a jigsaw to install shiplap?
When installing shiplap on walls and ceilings, you may run into either switches, outlets, or lightboxes. Use a jigsaw or a multi-tool to cut out those holes, and install the boards as above.
Step 1: Get the Wood!
I found that 1/8" / 2.5mm thick plywood from a big box store is the cheapest and lightest way to make this project work.
Step 2: Paint It First!
I decided to paint the wood strips first to help with keeping the new floor and freshly painted walls clean!
Step 3: Space It Out
I used the material that i was working with to act as a space to give the stripe / crate effect. You can use anything to keep the gaps at 1/8-1/4" spacing
Step 4: Grab Your Partner
For the hanging, i attempted to do it by myself, but it was way easier to hire my daughter to lend me a hand. I glued it up with liquid nail and used a narrow crown stapler to help hold it until the glue dried
How do I build a cheap shiplap ceiling?
Building a cheap shiplap ceiling is easy! Just follow these simple steps:
Can you shiplap over drywall on ceiling?
Shiplap is best used on interior walls where there are no appliances or other objects that make a wall difficult to shiplap. The material is also relatively thin, so it is not recommended to install shiplap on ceilings or as flooring.
Is it cheaper to drywall or shiplap?
Shiplap is generally less expensive than drywall. The cost of shiplap ranges from $0.75 to $2.50 per square foot installed, making it a very cost effective alternative to drywall.
What should I put behind shiplap?
Nothing needs to be put behind shiplap; however, many people choose to put insulation, vapor barrier, and sometimes drywall behind shiplap when installing it in their homes.
Do you need furring strips for shiplap?
Furring strips are not required for shiplap, but may be used for added stability.
What type of wood is used for shiplap ceilings?
Many types of wood can be used for shiplap ceilings, but the most popular type is cedar. Other types of wood that can be used include pine, fir, and Douglas fir.
How much does a shiplap ceiling cost?
The cost of a shiplap ceiling will vary depending on the materials used and the size of the project. Expect to spend between $2 and $4 per square foot for material and installation costs.
Why do you put shiplap on the ceiling?
Wall to ceiling shiplap in the same pattern can help define a space and guide people’s eyes towards the room’s furnishings. By making the wall and ceiling blend into each other, the eye doesn’t feel like it has to focus on the wall or the ceiling. Instead, it focuses on whatever you put in the room at the focal point.
How to make a dramatic statement?
A surefire way to make a dramatic statement is to make your walls and ceiling match! Rather than just doing a shiplap ceiling and calling it a day, consider bringing the same shiplap down onto the wall a bit. Doing so will not only ensure that you have an incredibly unique look on your hands, but it makes for a bold show-stopping effect.
How to go white without harsh vibes?
One of the best ways to go white without the harsh vibes is to use shiplap. Cover a white room floor to ceiling in shiplap and watch a stark-white space suddenly transform into a cozy room. 4.
Is shiplap ceiling a good addition?
After looking at these 16 stunning shiplap ceiling designs, it’s evident that shiplap ceilings can be a beautiful addition to any home.
Can you use diagonal shiplap in a living room?
If you’re more of a trendsetter, then why not give diagonal shiplap blocks a try? Diagonal shiplap ceiling designs take the convention of shiplap and turn it on its side – literally. It’s a terrific way to add visual excitement to any room, but it works best in living rooms, bedrooms, or sunrooms. If you’re looking for shiplap ceiling designs that are outside the norm, this is the one.
Is shiplap a good match for a ceiling?
Most people are used to thick paneled shiplap, but it’s not the only thing available. Narrow-paneled shiplap is the perfect marriage between modern and rustic. When used on the ceiling, it’s a terrific match for many popular design aesthetics.
Can you use shiplap on a low hanging ceiling?
Who says working from home has to be a drag? With shiplap ceiling ideas like these, it doesn’t have to be. By using shiplap on a curved, low-hanging ceiling, the space immediately feels relaxed and inviting instead of crowded and cramped.