Shiplap has broken through a popularity barrier no one ever saw coming. From home improvement shows to interior designers, this unique option is everywhere. So whether you’re considering shiplap siding to renovate a farmhouse or create interior design impact, you need all the facts before you begin.
Northwest Exteriors is passionate about sharing our decades of industry expertise so you can make informed choices for your next project. Read on as we share everything you need to know about shiplap siding, from its humble origins to installation, cost, and maintenance.
Shiplap Siding: What Is It?
With its distinctive horizontal overlapping boards, shiplap siding has impressive historical significance. It began back in the early days of shipbuilding when it was used to form watertight seals on ship hulls. It has since evolved into a popular option for interior and exterior uses for residential and commercial properties. The timeless appeal and versatility of shiplap have made it a charming favorite.
Shiplap Siding Materials
Wood
Classic shiplap siding is made from pine or cedar, as they both feature durability and natural beauty. The result is a rustic aesthetic in warm hues that complement many architectural styles, including farmhouses, coastal cottages, and cabins.
Fiber Cement
This is your go-to material if you want the natural look of wood without the tedious upkeep. It is manufactured by mixing cellulose fibers, sand, and cement for outstanding durability and fire resistance.
Metal
Metal is an excellent choice if you need a more contemporary look for your modern home. It is steadily gaining in popularity for its sleek, industrial vibe. Steel and aluminum are the most common options, as they are resistant to rust and corrosion.
Can Shiplap Be Used for Interior Siding?
Indeed! Shiplap siding can be used for design impact on bathroom walls, interior accent walls, small spaces, or ceilings. Its timeless appeal is popular for adding texture and visual interest to interior spaces. No matter what look you’re going for, shiplap siding can be customized to suit your style.
Modern shiplap is very durable and stands up to daily wear and tear. You can paint or stain it easily to harmonize with your color palette. Its interlocking design reduces moisture penetration, so it’s ideal for humid bathrooms. Use shiplap to create a unique accent wall or wrap an entire room. The possibilities are endless!
Can Shiplap Be Used for Exterior Siding?
Shiplap siding on exteriors is both visually appealing and functional. The overlapping design sheds water, reducing the risk of rot and mold. It can also be installed horizontally or vertically for a look that stands apart from the rest of the neighborhood.
Shiplap is also a savvy choice if you live in an area with changing climate conditions. It creates a tight seal for extra insulation, reducing energy costs.
The Shiplap Installation Process
Installation
Installing this siding type is pretty straightforward. The key is to make sure everything is aligned and spaced properly to create the seamless look shiplap is famous for. After everything is prepared, the boards are nailed or glued into place for a flawless finish.
Caulking
After the boards are installed, adding a premium exterior caulk around the edges and joints is highly recommended to repel moisture. Shiplap siding needs a durable seal to prolong its lifespan.
Shiplap Siding Maintenance
Once installed, homeowners can look forward to years of easy maintenance. Simply inspect your siding regularly for damage or wear. This may include warping, cracks, or discoloration.
Cleaning Shiplap Siding
Clean it with a mild soap and water solution to remove grime and insect debris. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before painting or sealing.
Types of Shiplap Siding
Wood
If you’re going for a farmhouse aesthetic, wood is the obvious choice. It creates that rustic charm you want and is available in a wide variety of grades and finishes. It is also easily customized to your style preferences.
Metal
This is the clear choice for homeowners with a modern property. It comes in many colors and finishes and is quite durable as well as low maintenance.
Fiber Cement
This option fakes the look of wood without requiring all the repairs, staining, and maintenance. It is incredibly weather-resistant and repels moisture few other materials can. It offers superior protection and lasts a very long time.
How to Budget for Shiplap Siding
Like any other type of siding, the cost of shiplap will vary depending on your material, home size, and labor costs. Generally, wood shiplap is more affordable upfront, while metal and cement fiber provide long-term savings in maintenance costs.
Regional price variations do occur based on local market conditions. The average cost of wood shiplap is between $2.5-0 to $7 per square foot, according to HomeAdvisor.com. Metal shiplap will run you around $3 to $12 per square foot, while fiber cement shiplap costs between $4.70 to $8.50.
Shiplap Siding vs. Other Siding Types
Wood Siding
Traditional wood is gorgeous to look at, but you must commit to regular maintenance to keep it that way regardless of siding type.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl is a very budget-friendly choice, albeit not spectacular visually. If you want more aesthetic appeal, shiplap might be the better choice.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement is available in all traditional siding types, including shiplap. Although it may cost more initially, it offers years of durability, fire resistance, and ease of care.
Shiplap Siding Pros
The numerous benefits of shiplap include timeless appeal, nostalgia, versatility, and durability. It can be used indoors or out to elevate the look and value of your home while providing superior protection against the elements.
Shiplap Siding Cons
Despite its superstar status, shiplap does have a few drawbacks. It can cost more to install due to fitting requirements and needs regular maintenance to prevent water damage. Because of its unique installation technique, repairing damaged sections can be tricky.
Shiplap Siding FAQs
Q: What is the best material for shiplap siding?
A: That all depends on your preferences and needs. Wood, engineered wood, fiber cement, and vinyl are widely considered to be the top choices.
Q: Can shiplap siding be installed vertically?
A: Absolutely! This resulting visual effect gives your home a unique appearance.
Q: How do I prevent moisture damage to shiplap siding?
A: It all begins with proper installation by a siding professional. They ensure the seams are tight and use only top-quality, water-resistant materials. To help protect against moisture damage, you might want to consider a moisture barrier behind the siding. After installation, give it a proper finish and maintain it regularly.
Q: Is shiplap siding suitable for all climates?
A: Yes. Consult with your local siding company to choose the right material type for your environment and have it professionally installed.
Q: Can I paint shiplap siding?
A: Of course! Just be sure to use high-quality exterior paint and primer designed explicitly for your shiplap material.
Q: Is shiplap siding waterproof?
A: Shiplap siding is not inherently waterproof, no. Some types are water-resistant and can be coated with a layer of protection to repel moisture. But the most important tip is to have it expertly installed.
Q: Is shiplap siding really that good?
A: If shiplap suits your home’s architectural style and design aesthetic, yes! Just make sure to choose a material suitable for your local climate and maintain it properly.
Q: Can shiplap siding be used on my home’s exterior?
A: Yes, exterior shiplap installation is relatively standard. Choose a material suitable for outdoor use and treat it with a moisture barrier.
Q: What is the best shiplap for exterior walls?
A: Choose a treated wood that resists rot or fiber cement to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Q: Can you paint stained shiplap?
A: Painting over stained shiplap is possible but requires prepping the surface with cleaning, sanding, and priming to ensure good adhesion.
Q: Does shiplap siding need a vapor barrier?
A: In certain climates, a vapor barrier is needed to prevent moisture from entering interior wall cavities, which could lead to mold growth or structural damage.
Conclusion
Shiplap siding is a versatile, timeless option to give your home charm and character. Choose a material suited to your local climate for major design impact that is also highly functional.
Call Northwest Exteriors for Superior Shiplap Installation in Sacramento
The expert team at Northwest Exteriors can make your shiplap vision come to life! As Sacramento’s siding specialists, we transform homes with meticulous care and unparalleled craftsmanship.
We keep pace with modern house siding trends and set benchmarks for quality and style. Shiplap siding’s playful mix of nostalgia and contemporary lines is a coveted look in the region, and our highly skilled installers deliver exquisite results quickly and efficiently. Flawless siding installation isn’t just our promise; it’s our guarantee.
Our designers meet with you to help you select the best styles and materials for your home and create options that meet your budget. Once you make your vision known, the completed project will ensure that your home is the neighborhood masterpiece!
Contact Us for Sacramento’s Best Siding & Windows Solutions
If you have questions about shiplap siding, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll schedule a consultation and lay out all the options for your next siding or window renovation. With Northwest Exteriors, you will benefit from our wealth of industry knowledge and expertise, which comes only from decades of experience.
Contact our expert team today for more details about our products.
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