The TV programme “Fixer Upper,” which is presented by restoration and design gurus Chip and Joanna Gaines, has contributed to the rise in popularity of shiplap, a contemporary and fashionable interior finish, during the last ten years.
The show’s enormous popularity might be attributed in part to Chip and Joanna’s endearing connection and their talent for transforming dilapidated houses into gorgeous, modern environments. Because of this, many homeowners were motivated to start their own do-it-yourself (DIY) renovations, often using shiplap, one of Joanna Gaines’ preferred wall materials.
A form of timber board known as shiplap is distinguished by its distinctive, overlapping pattern. Each piece of the board fits perfectly into the one below it when it is positioned horizontally, giving the structure a wonderful, rustic appearance. The term “shiplap” derives from its historical use in shipbuilding, when comparable planks were used to create durable, weather-resistant structures.
Shiplap has made a remarkable transition from its traditional usage as outside cladding to inside design. These days, it is often used to provide walls in residential rooms more texture, warmth, and aesthetic appeal.
Is it feasible to put shiplap directly over existing plasterboard? is one often asked question. It is feasible, that much is true. Without removing the current wall covering, you may create the desired effect by nailing or sticking shiplap boards to the drywall. This approach is well-liked among DIY enthusiasts since it enables a rather simple installation procedure.
As a result of Chip and Joanna Gaines and their impact on the television programme “Fixer Upper,” shiplap has become a popular and adaptable design feature. Shiplap gives every room individuality and charm whether it is employed as internal wall treatment or as external cladding. It has also become a practical solution for homeowners wishing to implement this well-liked design trend into their own homes thanks to the possibility to install it directly over plasterboard.
What is shiplap?
A typical sort of timber board used in building and interior design is called shiplap. It has been more well-liked recently as a decorative component in houses, particularly in farmhouse- and rustic-themed interiors. Originally used to designate a particular technique for building wooden ships, the word “shiplap” has come to refer to a particular kind of overlapping wooden planks that are employed in a variety of architectural applications.
Solid wood, such pine or cedar, is commonly used to make shiplap boards, however engineered wood or vinyl materials may also be used in more recent designs. A rabbet or groove along one edge and a similar tongue along the other give the boards their characteristic contour. With this layout, the boards may be laid horizontally and fit together tightly to form a tight, waterproof seal.
Shiplap has historically been used as outside siding on buildings to offer weather resistance. The overlapping pattern assisted in water drainage and kept moisture from infiltrating the building. Shiplap, however, has grown in popularity as a choice for internal wall cladding in recent years.
Although vertical installations are also an option, shiplap is often laid horizontally on walls in interior applications. The boards are often mounted with a little space between them, resulting in a clear reveal line that gives the room more visual appeal. Shiplap may be stained or painted to match the overall design scheme, or it can be left unpainted to show off the wood’s natural beauty.
The appeal of shiplap is due to its capacity to give a place warmth, texture, and a rustic character. It is often used to create a warm and welcoming feel in living areas, bedrooms, kitchens, and restrooms. Additionally, it may be utilised as a backsplash material, on accent walls, and on ceilings. Shiplap may be integrated into a variety of interior design styles, from classic to modern, because to its adaptability.
Can you install shiplap over drywall?
100% YES! Before commencing the installation of shiplap directly over plasterboard, it is essential to first find and label all of the studs in the wall.
Assemble the required equipment: You will need the shiplap boards of your choosing, a stud finder, a pencil, a measuring tape, and a level.
Find the studs: To find the studs in a wall, use a stud finder. The stud finder should be moved horizontally along the wall until it detects a stud. Make a pencil mark at the area. Find and mark each stud within the space where you want to place the shiplap by repeating this procedure.
Measure and cut the shiplap: Cutting the shiplap to the proper length requires measuring the height of the wall and cutting the shiplap boards accordingly. Don’t forget to take into consideration any baseboards or trim that could be there.
Start from bottom of wall: Start the installation process from the wall’s base. The first shiplap board should be positioned horizontally at the base of the wall, with its edge touching the specified studs. Make sure the board is straight by using a level.
Secure the boards: To attach the boards, fasten them to the studs using screws or a nail gun. Ensure a secure connection by regularly driving the fasteners through the shiplap and into the studs. Make sure the boards are securely bonded together by repeating this procedure for each board.
Continue upwards: Install the next rows of shiplap boards upwards, making sure that the tongue and groove edges fit tightly together. The seams between the boards should be spaced apart for more strength and a more pleasing design.
Trim and complete: Measure and cut the last row of shiplap to fit after you have reached the top of the wall. Make any required cuts around outlets, windows, or other obstructions using a saw or a jigsaw. For a finished appearance, apply trim or moulding to the edges to complete the installation.
Always remember to check the applicable building rules, take the necessary safety measures and, if necessary, consider hiring professionals before beginning any home renovation project.
Installing shiplap over drywall: Benefits
Even while it is possible to construct shiplap walls over plasterboard, the method that involves installing the boards directly into the studs and does not use plasterboard is unquestionably the easier of the two. By doing so, each stud is made plainly visible, hence removing the have to personally find and label each one of them.
Shiplap, as opposed to plasterboard, forms a continuous barrier behind the boards, which is a significant benefit of putting shiplap rather than plasterboard. This barrier serves to prevent air leakage, which enhances the airtightness of your house as a whole and improves the energy efficiency of your property.
As a consequence of this, you may anticipate that the loss of cool air during the summer months when you use air conditioning will be reduced, while the loss of warm air during the winter months when you heat your house will be minimised. There is a possibility that you may be able to reduce your monthly expenses for gas and electricity as a result of this.
It is essential to devote sufficient time to each phase of the shiplap installation process, including the final sanding, priming, and painting of the boards. This is the case regardless of whether you choose to place shiplap over plasterboard or straight onto the studs.
After finishing everything, you will be rewarded with a beautiful space that has a streamlined and contemporary appearance and that you will easily be able to personalise to meet your own tastes and sense of style.
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