Measuring for shiplap is a crucial step in any installation project to ensure accurate cuts, proper fit, and a seamless finished look. Whether you’re adding shiplap to a single wall or covering an entire room, precise measurements are essential for determining the amount of material needed and achieving a professional-quality result.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of how to measure for shiplap, covering everything from calculating square footage to accounting for obstacles like doors and windows.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a novice homeowner embarking on your first home improvement project, mastering the art of measuring for shiplap will set the foundation for a successful installation. With attention to detail and the right techniques, you can confidently tackle your shiplap project and transform any space with this timeless and versatile design element.
Importance of Accurate Measurement
Accurate measurement is the linchpin of any shiplap installation project. It serves as the foundation for ensuring that the amount of material purchased is neither insufficient nor excessively overestimated, which can ultimately save time, effort, and financial resources. An accurate measurement guarantees that each shiplap board fits perfectly against one another, reducing the need for unnecessary trimming or adjustments that could potentially compromise the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of the wall.
Furthermore, precise measurements are essential when navigating around obstacles such as doorways, windows, and electrical outlets, ensuring a professional finish that seamlessly integrates with the room’s architecture. In essence, taking the time to measure accurately before cutting and installing shiplap can be the difference between a project that looks effortlessly chic and one that seems haphazardly put together.
Understanding Shiplap Dimensions
Before you begin measuring for shiplap, it’s critical to understand the standard dimensions of shiplap boards and how they can influence your project. Shiplap boards are typically made from wood and come in a variety of widths and lengths, the most common being 6 to 8 inches wide and 8 to 12 feet long.
However, the thickness can vary, usually ranging between 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch. This variety allows for flexibility in design and application, suiting different aesthetic and structural requirements.
Each shiplap board is designed with a “rabbet” — a notch cut into the thickness of both edges of the plank. When installed, these notches overlap, creating a tight seal that enhances the wall’s appearance and functionality, providing a characteristic shadow line between boards.
When accounting for dimensions in your measurements, it’s essential to consider the overlap; typically, 1/2 inch is overlapped on each board. This overlap affects the overall coverage each board will provide once installed, impacting how much material you’ll need for your project.
Understanding these dimensions is crucial for planning your installation. Knowing the board widths will help you calculate how many rows of shiplap you’ll need to cover your wall, while the lengths will dictate how many boards are required to span its width.
Additionally, being aware of the thickness is important for ensuring that any adjoining trim or molding fits seamlessly with your shiplap installation. Armed with this knowledge, you can proceed to measure your space with an informed perspective, ensuring your project commences on a solid foundation.
Common Applications of Shiplap
Shiplap has gained popularity for its versatility and charming aesthetic, lending itself to a wide array of applications within home and commercial spaces. Commonly, shiplap is used to create accent walls in bedrooms, living rooms, or dining areas, adding texture and depth to the space.
It’s also frequently utilized in bathrooms and kitchens for a durable yet stylish wall covering that can withstand moisture with proper treatment. Beyond walls, shiplap can be applied to ceilings, offering a unique architectural element that draws the eye upward and adds interest to otherwise flat, unadorned surfaces.
In commercial settings, shiplap is used to evoke a warm, inviting atmosphere in cafes, boutiques, and office spaces, often serving as a backdrop for displays or to define different areas within an open-plan layout.
Furthermore, its robust nature makes it suitable for outdoor applications, such as on exterior walls, in porches, or around bars and counters in outdoor kitchens, enhancing the overall aesthetic with its timeless appeal. Regardless of its application, shiplap provides a seamless blend of functionality and style, making it a favored choice for designers and homeowners alike.
Types of Shiplap
Shiplap comes in various materials, each offering distinct characteristics and benefits that can influence the overall look and durability of your project. Understanding the different types of shiplap available is crucial for selecting the right material that aligns with the aesthetic and functional requirements of your space.
Wood Shiplap
Traditional wood shiplap is the most common and offers a classic, warm aesthetic. It is available in several types of wood, including pine, cedar, and oak, each providing different grain patterns, textures, and color options. Wood shiplap can be painted, stained, or left natural, allowing for a high degree of customization to match any interior design style. However, it requires regular maintenance to prevent warping, rotting, or pest damage, especially in areas with high moisture.
MDF Shiplap
Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) shiplap is a more affordable, engineered alternative to solid wood. It offers a smooth, uniform surface that is ideal for painting. MDF shiplap is lightweight and easy to install, making it a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts. Although it is less susceptible to temperature and humidity changes than wood, MDF can be prone to swelling if exposed to water, so it’s best used in dry areas.
PVC and Vinyl Shiplap
For high moisture environments like bathrooms or outdoor settings, PVC and vinyl shiplap are excellent choices due to their water-resistant properties. These materials do not rot, warp, or require as much maintenance as wood. PVC and vinyl shiplap come in a variety of colors and styles, including options that mimic the look of wood grain, providing the aesthetic appeal of wood without the upkeep.
Fiber Cement Shiplap
Fiber cement shiplap is another durable option that stands up well to harsh weather conditions, making it suitable for exterior applications. This material is resistant to rot, fire, pests, and moisture. Fiber cement shiplap can be painted to match any color scheme and typically offers a longer lifespan compared to wood shiplap.
Reclaimed Wood Shiplap
For those seeking an eco-friendly option with unique character, reclaimed wood shiplap is a sustainable choice that reuses wood from old barns, buildings, or shipping crates. Each piece of reclaimed wood is unique, providing a rich history and a rustic look that adds depth and texture to any space. However, supplies can be limited, and the cost may be higher due to the process of sourcing and preparing the wood for use.
By considering the characteristics of these types of shiplap, you can make an informed decision that ensures the best fit for your project, whether you’re aiming for a specific style, needing a material that can withstand certain environmental conditions, or working within a budget.
Installation and Measurement Considerations for Wood and MDF Shiplap
When planning to install shiplap, whether you’ve chosen the traditional wood or the engineered MDF variety, understanding the specific installation and measurement considerations for each type is essential for achieving a polished look.
Wood Shiplap Installation
Wood shiplap requires careful preparation before installation. It’s crucial to allow the wood to acclimate to your home’s environment, reducing the risk of expansion or contraction post-installation. When measuring for wood shiplap, take into account any potential shrinkage or expansion due to the natural properties of the wood.
During installation, leave a small gap (about a nickel’s width) between boards to accommodate any movement. For an enduring installation, use finishing nails that penetrate into wall studs, ensuring long-term stability.
MDF Shiplap Installation
MDF shiplap’s uniformity offers ease during the installation process, as less time is needed to acclimate MDF compared to wood. However, precision in measurement remains paramount to ensure each board fits neatly, particularly in corners and around fixtures. Unlike wood, MDF does not expand or contract significantly with temperature changes, allowing boards to be fitted more closely together.
Use panel adhesive alongside nails for a secure fit to prevent any future sagging or movement. Given MDF’s susceptibility to moisture, ensure that it is not used in areas where this could be a concern.
Measurement Strategies
Regardless of whether you choose wood or MDF shiplap, accurate measurements are key. Measure the height and width of the walls to calculate the total square footage, adding 10% to account for waste and errors. For both materials, consider the width of the panels to calculate how many will be needed to cover the wall efficiently. Remember to subtract the area taken up by windows, doors, or fixtures to avoid purchasing excess material.
By paying close attention to these installation and measurement considerations specific to wood and MDF shiplap, you can ensure a smooth installation process and a beautiful, lasting finish to your project.
10 Methods How to Measure for Shiplap
1. Calculate Square Footage:
Begin by calculating the total square footage of the area where you plan to install shiplap. Measure the height and width of each wall and multiply these dimensions to obtain the square footage of each wall. Add the square footage of all walls together to determine the total square footage needed for the project. It’s essential to account for any openings such as doors and windows, subtracting their square footage from the total to ensure accurate measurements.
2. Consider Shiplap Width and Spacing:
Shiplap boards come in various widths, ranging from 4 inches to 8 inches or more. Before measuring, decide on the width of the shiplap boards you intend to use for your project. Additionally, consider the desired spacing between each board, known as the “reveal” or “gap.” Standard spacing ranges from 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch, but this can be adjusted based on personal preference and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve.
3. Account for Obstacles:
Take note of any obstacles on the walls where you plan to install shiplap, such as doors, windows, outlets, and switches. Measure the height and width of these obstacles and subtract their dimensions from the total square footage of each wall. This will help determine the amount of shiplap needed and ensure accurate cuts around obstacles during installation.
4. Add Extra for Waste and Cuts:
It’s prudent to purchase slightly more shiplap than the calculated square footage to account for waste and cuts during installation. Factors such as imperfect cuts, angled corners, and irregularities in the wall surface may result in additional waste. As a general rule of thumb, consider adding 5% to 10% extra to the total square footage to accommodate these factors and prevent running short of materials mid-project.
5. Account for Shiplap Length:
Shiplap boards typically come in standard lengths, such as 8 feet or 12 feet. Before purchasing shiplap, measure the height of the walls to determine the appropriate length of boards needed. If the walls exceed the standard length of shiplap boards, plan to stagger the boards or use additional trim to create a seamless appearance without visible seams or joints. It is important to account for the length of shiplap boards in order to achieve a professional and cohesive look.
When measuring the height of the walls, be sure to add some extra inches to account for any mistakes or discrepancies. It is always better to have more shiplap than necessary rather than not enough. Additionally, if your walls are uneven or have bumps, it is important to purchase slightly longer shiplap boards to accommodate for any imperfections.
6. Factor in Pattern and Layout:
Consider the pattern and layout you wish to achieve with the shiplap installation. Horizontal, vertical, or diagonal patterns can significantly impact the amount of material needed and the overall visual effect.
Sketch out the desired layout and pattern on paper, taking into account the dimensions and orientation of the walls, as well as any architectural features or focal points that may influence the layout. Keep in mind that a simple horizontal or vertical layout may be easier to install, while a diagonal pattern can add visual interest and dimension.
Additionally, consider the width of the shiplap boards. Wider boards can create a more modern and dramatic look, while narrower boards can give a more traditional and rustic feel. You may also want to experiment with mixing different widths for a unique and personalized design.
7. Check for Squareness:
Before taking measurements, ensure that the walls are square and true. Use a carpenter’s square or a laser level to check for squareness, particularly at corners and junctions. If the walls are not perfectly square, adjustments may be necessary when cutting and installing the shiplap to maintain a consistent and symmetrical appearance.
If any deviations are found, use a framing square to draw straight reference lines on the walls for guidance. This will help ensure that the shiplap is installed in a straight and precise manner. Additionally, double check the level of each panel as you go along to avoid any significant discrepancies.
8. Measure Twice, Cut Once:
Adhere to the age-old adage of “measure twice, cut once” to minimize errors and waste during the shiplap installation process. Double-check all measurements before cutting the shiplap boards to ensure accuracy and precision. Taking the time to verify measurements can prevent costly mistakes and ensure a professional-quality result.
9. Consider Expansion Gaps:
In areas prone to temperature and humidity fluctuations, such as bathrooms or kitchens, it’s essential to leave expansion gaps between the shiplap boards and adjacent surfaces. These gaps allow for natural expansion and contraction of the wood, preventing warping, buckling, or cracking over time. Consult building codes and industry standards to determine the recommended size of expansion gaps based on environmental conditions and the type of wood used for the shiplap.
10. Plan for Trim and Finishing Touches:
Don’t forget to account for trim pieces and finishing touches when measuring for shiplap installation. Measure the length of baseboards, crown molding, and other trim elements needed to complete the project. Additionally, consider any decorative elements or architectural details that may enhance the overall design and aesthetic of the space, such as wainscoting, picture rails, or accent walls.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the art of measuring for shiplap is essential for a successful and efficient installation project. By accurately assessing the dimensions of the wall space, accounting for doors, windows, and other obstacles, and calculating the necessary quantity of shiplap materials, DIY enthusiasts can avoid costly mistakes and ensure a seamless application process.
Additionally, understanding the variations in shiplap profiles and lengths allows for informed decisions when selecting materials.
Taking the time to measure carefully and double-check calculations minimizes the risk of underestimating or overordering, saving time, money, and frustration in the long run. With proper planning and attention to detail, homeowners can embark on their shiplap journey confidently, knowing they have laid the groundwork for a visually stunning and professionally executed transformation of their space.
Hopefully, this article gave you some helpful tips about how to measure for shiplap successfully, so now that you have the proper knowledge on how to get the job done, why not give it a try today?