Add Character to Your Home With A Shiplap Ceiling

Shiplap Ceiling

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Shiplap ceiling is a fairly recent design trend. If you like to watch the HGTV series “Fixer Upper”, you’re probably already familiar with shiplap itself. Chip and Joanna Gaines find a way to work in the material in almost every episode, usually as an interior wall finish. The reason? Shiplap is durable, budget-friendly, but most importantly — it looks modern and chic.

Now, an increasing number of designers are using shiplap to add a unique aspect to ceilings. Read on to learn whether this subtle design trend will be the right fit for your residence. 

What is Shiplap?

Shiplap is a specific kind of wooden paneling. To make shiplap, long wooden boards are joined together by a series of grooves called rabbets. The resulting look is distinct and rustic. 

Shiplap is frequently used as siding on houses and structures like barns or sheds. In the past, it was used in place of plywood on the exterior of homes — placed underneath the siding to protect the house frame.

Many older and historic homes still have shiplap as part of their structure, and renovators can often repurpose the boards into a shiplap ceiling or interior walls. 

Shiplap Ceiling, Defined

Just like shiplap walls, a shiplap ceiling features lengthy wooden boards that are typically arranged with a gap between each panel. The style draws the eye upwards, giving off modern farmhouse vibes. Shiplap is easy to install, making it a great way to add subtle character to a small space.

Often finished with whitewash paint for a sleek, modern vibe, they are very photogenic. They’re an excellent choice for an investment property like an AirBnB or a long-term rental. 

Shiplap vs Tongue-and-Groove 

Tongue-and-Groove

Shiplap is often confused with tongue-and-groove paneling, and for good reason. The styles are very similar. Shiplap tends to be used as a budget-friendly alternative to the more costly tongue-and-groove panels.

The main difference between the two styles is the way they are joined together. Shiplap uses rabbet joints. These are small stair-step grooves that are cut in the top left and bottom right of each side of the wood panel, respectively. The joints latch together easily, giving shiplap the reputation for being simple and cheap to install. 

Shiplap

Tongue-and-Groove

As the name suggests, tongue-and-groove paneling is joined together with a series of tongue-shaped joints and groove joints. Along the side of one panel, there is a sunken groove cut in the center. The other side of the panel has a protruding center. In order to install the paneling, one must fit the tongue side of the panel into the groove side of the next panel, and so on, then secure the boards with a nail that is driven through the joints. 

Because of this, tongue-and-groove panels fit together more exactly than shiplap panels, but they are also more time-consuming to install. If you are concerned about time and cost, go with shiplap. If you want a very clean look, and budget is no issue, go with tongue-and-groove paneling.

Pros and Cons of Shiplap Ceiling

Here are some advantages to installing shiplap ceiling.

1. Practicality

Shiplap was originally used as insulation, and it is highly moisture-resistant. 

2. Versatility

Shiplap can be stained and painted almost any color, making it work well as an accent ceiling. 

3. Easy to care for

The material is easy to source, install, and repair. 

4. Budget-friendly

Shiplap is not expensive. It is also commonly found in historic houses, so it is possible to use your existing shiplap in a renovation.

5. Space enhancing

This style is ideal for low ceilings or small rooms, as the horizontal lines will make your room feel even larger.

The material is not without its drawbacks, however. Here are the two main disadvantages to consider before you choose a shiplap ceiling:

1. Weak joints

A shiplap joint is generally not as strong as a tongue-and-groove joint. However, you can supplement this by using a high-quality wood and securing the boards with nails along their joints. 

2. Dust

The texture of the wood can attract dust, and this can be problematic on a high ceiling. You can deal with this issue by investing in a long-handled microfiber duster to keep the panels clean. 

Alternatives to Shiplap Ceiling

If you appreciate the look of a shiplap ceiling, but you aren’t sold on the material itself, here are three popular styles that give off the same rustic charm.

1. Peel-and-stick shiplap

Although real shiplap is fairly affordable, you can cut costs even more by using a faux peel-and-stick shiplap. Consider using peel-and-stick for a rental property or as a temporary project to decide whether you like the look enough to go with real shiplap. 

2. Beadboard

Beadboard ceilings are very popular in lake cottages, country-style farmhouses, and large covered patios. Generally made from pine, beadboard is made from tongue-and-groove panels. It has a more dynamic appearance than shiplap, so it will be great for homeowners who love a strikingly textured look. 

3. Coffered ceiling

A coffered ceiling is an ideal solution for rooms with high ceilings, such as a vaulted foyer or a cathedral living room. Just like shiplap, a coffered ceiling can be painted a variety of colors and it is easy to install. However, coffers give off a statement look, whereas shiplap tends to be more subtle. 

How to Style Your Shiplap Ceiling

Once you’ve installed or decided on shiplap for your ceiling, the fun truly begins. The versatility of this wood paneling means that your ceiling will last through multiple renovations and design changes.

The subtle lines of shiplap will inevitably draw the eye upwards. Take advantage of this by installing unique lighting fixtures, such as pendant lights or a chandelier, or incorporating hanging planters. 

Another great design idea is to bring in wooden accents. Think exposed wooden beams or floating wood shelves. The touch of natural wood against a whitewashed shiplap ceiling can bring together the perfect combination of homey and modern vibes.

Brick walls, a claw bathtub, or a cozy fireplace are all features that can highlight the romantic appeal of a shiplap ceiling.

Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C