Shiplap edges can be finished in numerous ways. Generally, the easiest and most cost effective way to finish the edge of shiplap is to use trim. The trim can be simple and classic, such as finger joint moulding or picture frame moulding, or can be more ornamental, such as half-round moulding or quarter round moulding.
The trim can also be painted or stained to match or compliment the shiplap.
If using shiplap on the ceiling, the edges can be finished in a similar fashion as the walls, with the use of moulding and trim. However, it’s also possible to finish the edges by creating a continuous wrap of shiplap around the perimeter of the room.
This can be achieved by intentionally measuring, cutting and installing the shiplap along the ceiling line.
If a smoother and neater finish is desired, a thin layer of drywall can also be used to hide and give a professional look to the edges. The drywall will also add an extra layer of protection from accidents, such as knock-on from heavy furniture and even the occasional bumped noggin!.
Do you install trim before shiplap?
It really depends on the type of project you are undertaking. Generally speaking, it is recommended to install trim before shiplap as it gives you a more professional and finished look. Additionally, trim can provide you with a smooth edge transition between shiplap and the wall, which can help create a high-end look.
Installing trim also helps to cover gaps between shiplap boards and the edges of the wall, creating a more polished look. As a final benefit, trim can also help provide extra stability to your shiplap installation.
However, depending on your project, it might make more sense to install shiplap before trim. For example, if you want to create a slightly rustic aesthetic, it might make more sense to install the shiplap boards first and then add the trim afterwards.
Additionally, if you are installing shiplap around outlets, trim can make the job easier by covering up the holes.
If you are unsure of whether to install trim before shiplap, it is always best to consult a professional for advice. This way you can ensure your project will turn out the way you want it to.
What corner trim do you use for shiplap?
Corner trims are a great way to finish off the look of any shiplap project. Depending on the style you are looking for. For a more updated, contemporary look, square edge corner trim is the preferred option.
This corner trim features a flat, square edge on each side of the corner joint. This look gives a very clean, modern look to any project.
For a more traditional or rustic feel, wooden corner trims are a great choice. These trims are made from either hardwood or softwood and feature slightly beveled or rounded edges, which gives a nice soft look to the shiplap.
These trims also come in a variety of different woods such as pine, oak, and walnut.
Another option is plastic corner trim. These trims are very affordable, easy to install, and come in many different designs and colors. This type of trim has a light, smooth finish and gives a very consistent look to the shiplap.
No matter what type of corner trim you choose, be sure to measure and cut it to fit before installing. Make sure all corners and edges are square and edges are smooth for a perfect fit. Then, attach the corner trim with nails or screws according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Does a shiplap wall need baseboard?
Whether or not a shiplap wall needs baseboard is largely a matter of personal preference. Regardless of the type of wall, baseboards typically serve a functional purpose of covering the gap between the wall and the floor and provide a finished look to the room.
When it comes to installing baseboards on a shiplap wall, the design of the wall should be taken into consideration. An important consideration is whether the wall covers the entire height of the room, with the baseboard covering the gap between the wall and the floor.
If the shiplap wall does not reach the full height of the room, then baseboard may not be needed to cover the gap.
Baseboard can also help complete the look of a shiplap wall. It can give the wall a polished look and add an element of classic charm to the room. Ultimately, whether or not baseboard is necessary for a shiplap wall is up to the homeowner and their personal taste and style.
What should I put behind shiplap?
When deciding what to put behind shiplap, you’ll want to keep in mind both the look of the wall and its function. A back wall behind shiplap serves a few different purposes, from reinforcing the structure and stability of the wall to serving as a decorative piece.
For a purely decorative option, drywall is a great choice. Because drywall is smooth, you won’t see the lines of the boards behind the shiplap, creating a seamless look. If you’re looking for something a bit more durable and fire-resistant, cement board is a great option.
The material comes in large sheets, and can be installed as either wall backing or a tile backer, which is convenient for bathroom walls.
If you’re looking for a longer lasting option, plywood would be a good choice. Though thicker and heavier than other backing solutions, it is highly durable and can be painted to match the wall color.
If you’re looking to use shiplap in a bathroom and want a more waterproof option, HardieBacker cement board is also a great choice. Made of fibreglass-reinforced cement, it will provide moisture resistance and won’t mold, rot, or warp.
No matter what material you choose, make sure you are following the manufacturer’s installation instructions, as the wrong installation may lead to voiding of the warranty.
Can you leave shiplap unpainted?
Yes, you can leave shiplap unpainted, though it may take some extra maintenance to protect it from the elements. Unpainted shiplap can be left plain to create a rustic look or can be stained or whitewashed to create a unique and cozy living space.
If left unpainted, it is important to ensure that the wood is finished with a sealant or top coat to help protect it against moisture and the elements. Sealants should be reapplied every one to three years depending on the climate and the amount of wear and tear the wood experiences.
Additionally, simple cleaning and regular dusting can help preserve its natural look. For a serene, beachy feel, opt for a light color or bluish gray. Finally, lighting plays an important role in setting the mood for any room with exposed wood.
Track lighting can be an effective option, as the wood can be illuminated from various angles.
Do you install shiplap from top or bottom?
The short answer is it depends. Generally, when installing shiplap, you should start at the bottom and work your way up. This is especially important if you are installing shiplap on a wall that is not level, as it reduces the chances of noticeable gaps and a wobbly look.
However, if you are installing shiplap on a completely flat wall, there is more flexibility and it doesn’t matter if you start at the top or the bottom.
The most important thing to keep in mind is spacing between shiplap boards. You need to make sure they’re all even, which will ensure a seamless look. If you start at the top, the shiplap boards should overlap the wall by the same amount at the top as they do at the bottom.
In order to avoid gaps from forming, you can secure shiplap boards with a brad nail gun and use caulk to fill any imperfections or gaps.
How do you attach shiplap to a wall?
Attaching shiplap to a wall requires a few basic tools and materials — jigsaw, screws, drill, and shims — and is relatively simple to do. Begin by measuring and cutting the boards to size with the jigsaw.
Then, position the board on the wall, using shims as necessary to level it. Drill pilot holes into the studs and then use screws to secure the board in place. Make sure the heads of the screws are countersunk, so they can be filled in and hidden later.
Continue this process along the wall until all of the shiplap is in place. Finally, fill the screw holes with wood putty, caulk the cracks, and paint or stain the boards, as desired.
What kind of trim goes with shiplap?
When it comes to trim to go with shiplap, there are a few different options you can choose from that will work well and create a unified look for any room. One popular choice is a simple board and batten design.
This trim style uses mitered boards, usually three to five boards, stacked one on top of the other. The boards form a square corner at the base and the top is capped with a mitered piece. This trim style looks great with any type of shiplap and offers an elegance to a room that is sure to be admired.
Another option is crown molding. This trim style adds an extra touch of luxury to a room and is a great way to add height to any wall. Crown molding is typically made from wood and lends a polished look to a room.
Be sure to check your local home improvement store for pre-made trim pieces, or you can custom make your own for a truly unique look.
Finally, there is baseboard trim. Just like it sounds, this type of trim runs along the bottom of the wall and is available in many styles. It helps to fill in the gap between the floor and wall and can be stained or painted to match the shiplap.
If you don’t want to use a solid trim style, consider a beadboard design that can add texture without compromising the look of the shiplap.
Each of these trim styles works well with shiplap and can help to create the exact look and feel you are going for in any room. With so many different types of trim to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect look to match your shiplap.
Do you need baseboard with shiplap?
The answer to this question depends on the specific situation and context, as there are a few factors to consider. In some cases, baseboard can be completely unnecessary, such as when shiplap is installed in a bathroom or another area where there is little opportunity for the edges of the finish to be bumped or scuffed.
In other cases, baseboard may be necessary to cover any gaps between the wall and the shiplap in order to ensure a neater finish, enhance aesthetic appeal, and provide a place for paint or sealant to gather if required.
Additionally, depending on how the shiplap is installed, it may not provide adequate protection to the wall if it is left unprotected, and in these cases, baseboard may be necessary in order to ensure that the wall is sufficiently protected from eventualitites such as movement or moisture.
Ultimately, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of installing baseboard with shiplap and make a decision basd on the particular situation.
Can shiplap go directly on studs?
Yes, shiplap can go directly on studs. That said, it’s important to be mindful of the type of shiplap and studs you are using. Hardwood shiplap is generally too thick (1-2 in) to be nailed directly to the studs, so it should be nailed to thinner material, like underlayment, or installed using construction adhesive.
On the other hand, softwood shiplap (3/4 in) can usually be nailed directly to the studs. However, where the studs are spaced closely together, you may need to use a 2×4 as a backing board to ensure the shiplap is held securely in place.
Additionally, if the studs are too thin, be sure to add 1×4 or 1×6 nailing strips to ensure the shiplap is adequately supported.
Overall, shiplap can go directly on studs, but it’s important to take into account the type and size of material you’re working with to ensure a secure and lasting installation.
Do you cover nail holes in shiplap?
Yes, you can cover nail holes in shiplap. The best way to do this is to fill the holes with wood putty and then sand it down until it is level with the rest of the wood. Once this is done, you can either choose to leave the wood natural or paint over it.
If you choose to paint, make sure to use a waterproof paint to ensure that the holes do not reappear later. If you don’t want to do the work yourself, you can hire a professional painter to do the job for you.
Can shiplap be installed over drywall?
Yes, it is possible to install shiplap over drywall. This process is usually easier than installing it directly to the studs, as you don’t have to worry about attaching furring strips or other additional forms of work.
To install shiplap over drywall, you need to measure and mark the walls so you know where to place the boards. You can use a level to make sure the boards are even. Once the boards are in place, use finishing nails or screws to affix the boards to the wall.
Make sure the nails go through the drywall and into the stud for extra stability. When you are finished installing the boards, you can use wood filler or spackle to fill in the nail holes. Finally, you can caulk around the edges and paint the walls.
How do you finish a shiplap on a corner?
Finishing a shiplap corner is actually quite easy and can be accomplished with the right supplies and a little bit of time. Firstly, you will need an appropriately-sized piece of shiplap that fits the corner area you are attempting to finish.
After you have the correct piece of shiplap, measure and mark the midway point on the side of the board that will be facing the wall. The next step is to use a power saw to cut the board in half. Once the board is cut, you can now fit each of the halves together in the corner and secure it with nails.
If your shiplap installation is more than one course wide then use a framing square to angle the top edge of your shiplap so that the top edge at the corner follows the slant of the other boards. Then, if you prefer to paint over the shiplap corners, use a small paintbrush to apply the paint in the slant at the corner area, cutting in the edges with precision.
If you prefer to stain the wood, use a rag to apply the stain and lightly feather in the edges.
Does trim go on top shiplap?
No, trim should not be applied directly on top of shiplap. Shiplap is a type of wood cladding that is typically used in exterior applications such as siding, but is also popular for interior walls due of its rustic, farmhouse aesthetic.
Trim should be used to finish the edges of the shiplap, with the trim being applied after the shiplap has been fastened or nailed to the underlying wall. This helps to ensure that the edges of the shiplap are adequately sealed and protected, as well as prevents movement that can occur with air and temperature changes.
The trim should be attached using a compatible adhesive, caulking, or even screws to ensure that it maintains its position. Additionally, the trim should be painted to match the color of the shiplap, allowing the shiplap to complement the trim and create a seamless finish to the wall.
Should I nail or screw shiplap?
It depends on the type of finish you’re looking for and how secure you want the shiplap to be. If you’re going for a more rustic look, using nails may be the better option. Nails will give the wood a more antique, vintage look while still providing adequate security.
If you want a more polished look, however, then screws may be the better option. Screws are less likely to show through the wood, so they can provide a smoother, more finished look. They’ll also give you a more secure attachment than nails, as they create a much tight seal between the wall and the shiplap.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what look you’re going for and how secure the shiplap needs to be.
Does shiplap have to end on stud?
No, shiplap does not have to end on stud. However, for the best installation results and the most secure fit, it is recommended to use studs whenever possible when installing shiplap. The most efficient way to install shiplap is to begin on one end and work your way up the wall.
You should also make sure that shiplap is cut to fit around multiple outlets and around windows before it is secured.
When connecting shiplap to the wall, it can be secured with nails and construction adhesive. Nails should be put into the studs in the wall, as those areas provide the most support. If the shiplap needs to end on something other than a stud, such as a board behind the drywall, you can use an appropriate backing material for support.
Regardless of whether or not you are ending on a stud, it is important that you use quality materials and tools, and that you install the shiplap flush with the wall. If these steps are followed, your shiplap installation should turn out looking great and be secure for years to come.