Cheap Shiplap: <$100!

Cheap Shiplap: Under $100!

Shiplap has taken the interior design world by storm, adding a touch of rustic charm and character to homes everywhere. But let's be honest, the cost of traditional shiplap can be a major deterrent. Fear not, budget-conscious DIYers! You can achieve the shiplap look for under $100. This guide provides several methods for achieving the shiplap aesthetic without breaking the bank.

Understanding Shiplap & Cost Factors

Before diving into the DIY methods, let's clarify what shiplap is and why it typically costs so much. Shiplap is a type of wooden board that has rabbeted edges (a groove cut along the edge) that allow the boards to overlap, creating a tight, clean seam. This overlap is what gives shiplap its distinctive look and also provides a degree of weather resistance, which is why it was traditionally used in barns and sheds. Shiplap can be used as an exterior siding or interior decor.

The cost of shiplap is influenced by the material, the size of the project, and labor costs if you hire a professional. Solid wood is generally the most expensive material, while medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and plywood offer more affordable alternatives. The average cost to install shiplap ranges from $4 to $7 per square foot, including materials and labor. However, you could spend between $300 and $5,600, depending on the materials you choose and the size of your project.

Cost-Saving Strategies

• Material Choice: Opting for alternatives like plywood, MDF, or reclaimed wood significantly reduces material costs.
• DIY Installation: Doing the installation yourself eliminates labor expenses, which can range from $35 to $100 per hour for a carpenter.
• Accent Walls: Focusing on smaller accent walls instead of entire rooms minimizes both material and labor costs.

Option 1: Plywood Shiplap – The Most Popular Choice

Using plywood is a common and cost-effective way to achieve the shiplap look. Here's how to do it:

Materials:

• One 4'x8' sheet of ¼" or ½" plywood (sanded plywood recommended) – around $20-$40 depending on the type and grade
• Construction adhesive or Liquid Nails
• Brad nails
• Nickels or tile spacers
• Paint, primer, and supplies
• Wood filler or Bondo (for seamless seams)

Tools:

• Table saw (or have the hardware store cut the plywood into strips)
• Stud finder
• Level
• Measuring tape
• Caulk gun
• Miter saw
• Pneumatic finish nailer or hammer
• Safety glasses
• Sander and sandpaper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Plywood: Have the hardware store rip the plywood sheet into strips. The width of the strips is up to you, but common sizes range from 4" to 8". This is much easier if you don't have a table saw. Otherwise, use a table saw to cut the strips yourself.
2. Prepare the Wall: Clean the wall surface and locate the studs using a stud finder. Mark the stud locations with a pencil. Remove baseboards, molding, and outlet covers before installation. Let the shiplap boards adjust to the room temperature and moisture. Keep the boxes open for at least 48 hours.
3. Install the First Row: Use a level to draw a straight horizontal line at the bottom of your wall, ensuring your first row is perfectly level [14]. Apply construction adhesive to the back of the first strip and position it along the guideline. Use a nail gun to secure the strip to the wall studs.
4. Add Spacers: Place nickels (or tile spacers) between the first strip and the next to create consistent gaps [1, 14]. The amount of space you leave between boards is totally personal preference.
5. Install Subsequent Rows: Apply adhesive to the back of the next strip, place it on top of the spacers, and nail it into the studs. Repeat this process, ensuring each row is level, until you reach the top of the wall.
6. Cutting Around Obstacles: Use a jigsaw to cut around outlets, light switches, or other obstacles. Make a paper template of any vents, plates, or outlets to cut holes in your boards.
7. Finishing Touches: Fill nail holes with wood filler, sand the surface smooth, and caulk along the edges for a clean finish. Then, paint the shiplap your desired color. Consider using Bondo putty instead of wood filler for seamless seams because it sands just like wood filler but leaves a smoother finish and is less likely to crack over time [1].

Tips for Plywood Shiplap:

• Seamless Seams: For a seamless look, use auto body filler (Bondo) to fill the seams between boards [1].
• Pre-Painting: Painting the plywood strips before installation can save time and ensure even coverage, especially in the gaps.
• Staggering: Stagger the seams between rows for a more visually appealing and professional look [14, 18].

Option 2: Pallet Wood Shiplap – Rustic and Reclaimed

For a more rustic and unique look, consider using reclaimed pallet wood. This option is incredibly budget-friendly, as pallets are often free or very inexpensive. However, it requires more preparation and effort.

Materials:

• Pallet wood (free or low cost)
• Nails
• Wood glue
• Wood stain or paint (optional)
• Polyurethane

Tools:

• Hammer or nail gun
• Crowbar or pallet buster
• Circular saw or hand saw
• Sander and sandpaper
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Stud finder

Instructions:

1. Disassemble the Pallets: Carefully disassemble the pallets using a crowbar or pallet buster [25]. Be cautious of nails and staples.
2. Prepare the Wood: Remove any remaining nails or staples, and sand the wood to smooth out rough edges.
3. Cut the Boards: Cut the pallet boards to the desired length for your shiplap.
4. Seal the wood: To seal the wood, dip the segments of pallet wood in a diluted polyurethane two or three times.
5. Install the First Row: Use a level to ensure the first row is straight. Apply construction adhesive to the back of the pallet boards and nail them to the wall studs.
6. Continue Installation: Place a small gap (around 1/8" to 1/4") between each board using spacers. Stagger the seams for a more visually appealing look.
7. Finishing: Apply a clear coat of polyurethane to protect the wood and enhance its natural beauty.

Tips for Pallet Wood Shiplap:

• Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves when disassembling pallets to protect yourself from splinters and nails.
• Wood Treatment: If the pallet wood is dirty or stained, clean it with a wood cleaner and allow it to dry completely before installation.
• Design Considerations: Arrange the pallet wood pieces on the floor in different patterns to figure out what pattern you like best [25].
• Durability If installing in a bathroom, be sure to use a water-resistant finish, such as polyurethane, polycrylic, or mildew-resistant paint, to prevent swelling and mold growth [15].

Option 3: Faux Shiplap with Hardboard (Masonite)

This method uses hardboard (also known as Masonite) to create a faux shiplap effect. It's lightweight, easy to cut, and provides a smooth surface for painting.

Materials:

• Hardboard sheets (4'x8') – around $20 per sheet
• Nail gun
• Brad nails
• Tape measure
• Level
• Wood glue
• Paint

Tools:

• Table saw
• Jigsaw
• Sander

Instructions:

1. Cut the Hardboard: Use a table saw to cut the hardboard into strips of your desired width.
2. Install the First Row: Use a level to install the first row of hardboard. Secure to the wall with a nail gun.
3. Continue Installation: Use pieces of hardboard as spacers in between the rows.
4. Finishing: Caulk, and paint as desired!

Option 4: Other Inexpensive Shiplap Alternatives

Here are some other alternatives for getting a shiplap look on a tight budget:

• V-Groove Planks: Install V-groove wood planks for a faux shiplap wall [2].
• Peel-and-Stick Flooring: Use peel-and-stick flooring as a backsplash for a faux shiplap look [2].
• Wood and Command Strips: Use wood and Command strips to create a planked wall with no nails [2].
• Wall Mural: Use a wall mural for the easiest faux shiplap [2].
• Look of Wood Wallpaper: Use look of wood wallpaper to mimic shiplap [2].
• Painted Pinstripe Lines: Paint pinstripe lines to create a planked look [2].

Conclusion: Affordable Shiplap is Achievable

Creating a shiplap wall doesn't have to drain your bank account. With a little creativity and DIY spirit, you can achieve the coveted shiplap look for under $100. Whether you choose plywood, pallet wood, or MDF, remember to focus on careful preparation, precise installation, and a flawless finish.

Next Steps:

• Choose Your Method: Evaluate the options presented and decide which best suits your budget, skill level, and desired aesthetic.
• Gather Materials and Tools: Create a detailed shopping list and ensure you have all the necessary tools before starting the project.
• Start Small: If you're new to DIY, begin with a small accent wall to gain experience and confidence.
• Share Your Results: Share your cheap shiplap transformation online.