Shiplap

Shiplap refers to wooden boards that are milled with rabbeted edges so that adjacent boards overlap when installed, forming a tight seam. The term originates from shipbuilding, where such planks helped shed water across a hull. In interior design, shiplap describes wall and ceiling covering made from similar boards, installed to achieve a linear, paneled look.

Construction and installation typically involve horizontal placement, though vertical or diagonal arrangements are used for visual effect. The overlapping joints create shallow grooves that run along the wall, emphasizing straight lines and uniform spacing. Common materials include softwoods like pine or spruce, but shiplap can also be made from cedar, plywood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), or PVC for damp areas. Boards are often six to eight inches wide, and thickness varies by product and application. Finishes range from natural wood with clear sealants to painted or stained surfaces.

Applications and style trends vary. Shiplap is widely used on interior walls and ceilings to add texture and a sense of craftsmanship, and it is sometimes applied as exterior siding in lighter-duty conditions. Styles associated with shiplap range from farmhouse and coastal to modern rustic, depending on finish, color, and spacing of the joints. While it contributes to aesthetics, shiplap is generally non-structural and is installed over existing wall substrates or framing.

Maintenance and care depend on material and location. Painted shiplap requires periodic repainting, while natural or sealed wood benefits from routine cleaning and moisture control. In high-humidity spaces like bathrooms, moisture-resistant materials or vinyl/plastic alternatives are common options.