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In terms of affordability, shiplap planks typically come out on top. Due to their construction and a more clean-cut installation, which affects labor costs, shiplap is relatively cheaper. But it all comes down to the material, size of the room or project and sometimes even the area in which you live.
Cons of Using Shiplap
One potential issue is that the wood planks may not be waterproof or moisture resistant so additional protection might be needed. This can be accomplished by using water-resistant stain or paint if installing shiplap near sinks or showers.
There is a huge cost savings to use plywood strips to create a shiplap wall instead of true shiplap boards. Faux shiplap is easier, and way cheaper!
Nickel gap boards are a great way to create a rustic look without the fuss of shiplap. They are similar to the previous shiplap look but now come in a broader range of colors, including flat whites that ignore the wood grain look for a cleaner, more modern feel. This option has narrow slots between each board.
Shiplap has long been celebrated for its rustic charm and farmhouse appeal, but in 2024, it's taking on a fresh, modern twist. As a versatile and stylish design element, shiplap is being reimagined in innovative ways that bring a touch of elegance and warmth to any space.
Wainscoting is any style of wood paneling that is on the lower one-half to one-third of a wall, usually around the entire room perimeter. Wainscoting protects the wall from damage, especially in areas prone to impact, such as dining rooms or children's rooms. Wainscoting is commonly assembled from beadboard panels.
Refined, clean-lined designs are replacing shiplap walls, barn doors, and rustic accents. More vibrant and colorful spaces are replacing the gray-on-gray trend. Warmer tones like beige, taupe, and jewel tones are starting to emerge, moving away from the cool, monochromatic palettes that have dominated in recent years.
Cost. Shiplap tends to be more affordable than beadboard paneling. That being said, the end expenditure will depend largely on variables such as material quality and professional labor fees. Both beadboard and shiplap can be painted or stained according to your personal preference, which can add to the overall budget.
For aesthetic purposes, wooden planks are a great shiplap alternative. Keep in mind that wood planks do not fit into each other, so take care while installing – or hire a professional – to ensure they are straight and smooth.
Key Takeaway: Picking a shiplap width can be a big decision, since it'll likely have a big impact on your living space. Six-inch wide boards are commonly used to create rustic, cozy atmospheres. For those working with larger areas or needing a bit more dramatic effect, eight-inch panels might be a better choice.
Shiplap adds marketability and some value to your home
“I've seen a 5% increase in value when a home is decked out in trim,” she notes. “I think shiplap can add value to the home because it creates a more customized feature rather than generic drywall.
While vertical shiplap can make a room appear larger, horizontal shiplap can widen the look of a room, like in this powder room. Although it's a small room, the horizontal shiplap treatment broadens the look. Horizontal shiplap can look more modern than vertical shiplap.
“Wall panels are always on trend and always will be,” said Kailee Blalock and Taylor Troia, co-founders of House of Hive Design Co. “Traditional wall panels are a great way to add a timeless element to a home.”
The cheapest way to panel a wall will depend on the material used, the size of the wall, and the installation method. Plywood panels: One of the most economical options is to use 4x8-foot plywood panels. You can choose between sanded and unsanded finishes, and it can be easily painted or stained to match your decor.
Material Cost to Install Wall Panelling
MDF Panels: Affordable and versatile; cost ranges between £20 and £40 per square metre. PVC Panels: Easy to install and maintain; cost ranges between £20 and £50 per square metre. Wood Panels: Premium look and feel; cost ranges between £50 and £150 per square metre.
She says shiplap requests “have definitely cooled off” in the last year. “We've even had clients eliminate it at the last minute, worried it was too trendy,” Conte adds. Designers who participated in Apartment Therapy's 2024 design trend prediction survey agreed, saying this is the year to say goodbye to shiplap.
It's no secret that Chip and Joanna Gaines are fans of designing with shiplap, a rough-sawn pine paneling often used in barns and historic homes. Get shiplap ideas from some of the most spectacular ways the 'Fixer Upper' stars have used this versatile material.
So, what exactly is shiplap? It's rough sawn pine wood boards, often used in barns or historic homes for insulation. Others argue that it's used on old house exteriors for framing, just beneath the siding or in the construction of barns, sheds, and outbuildings.
What nails to use to install shiplap cladding. Galvanised nails should be used; this will prevent staining occurring in the event of corrosion.
Farmhouse decor has been a long-standing trend, but in 2025, it's getting a much-needed refresh. Gone are the days of overly rustic, cookie-cutter designs. This year, the look leans toward a more refined, modern farmhouse aesthetic.
Use the “one-third” rule to help you: If the paneling in your room features vertical, even panels and covers at least one-third of the wall, floor to ceiling, there is a good chance it is wainscoting.
Like most trends from the past, it was inevitable that someday wood cladding/paneling would make a comeback. And like it or not — the time is now. Presently available in a rainbow of colors, beautiful textures and crafted from sustainable, green materials, contemporary wood cladding is fresh, chic and inviting.
Shiplap is the preferred option for quick, budget-friendly DIY projects, offering timeless visual appeal with minimal fuss. Slatwall, however, shines where utility and flexible storage are priorities. At Ninth & Vine, transform any space with the perfect wall finish.