Yes, molding can be used with shiplap. Whether you’re using wood or MDF, adding moulding in between each shiplap plank creates a more finished look. It also hides any imperfections when the planks are not perfectly lined up.
To install moulding with shiplap, measure out the space you will need to fill with the moulding, cut each piece to fit, and then attach it with construction adhesive, brads, and/or a glue gun. It is important to make sure the moulding lies flush against the wall and is properly secured to ensure a finished look.
How do you finish the top of a shiplap wall?
Finishing the top of a shiplap wall is fairly straightforward. The first step is to determine the height that you would like the top of the wall to be. Once the height is determined, you will need to hold a level along the top of the wall and make sure that it is completely level.
If not, adjust the studs to correct the level.
Next, start at one corner and measure down the length of the wall and mark it. At each of the marks, you’ll need to drive a nail. These nails will hold the top row of shiplap planks. Do this along the entire length of the wall.
On the last row, measure the distance between the last two nails and cut the board to those measurements. Do the same thing to determine the width of the last row’s pieces. Nail this last row in with the nails placed in the same pattern as the previous rows.
Finally, caulk the joints between the planks on the last row and anywhere else that there may be a gap between the wall and the shiplap. This will ensure that there isn’t any moisture infiltration and will help maintain the overall integrity of the wall.
What kind of molding goes with shiplap?
The type of molding that pairs with shiplap can depend on the color, texture and style of the project. For a classic, timeless look, a simple, rectangular-shaped trim is often a popular option. However, if you’re looking for something a bit more modern or fancy, crown molding, base molding, corner blocks and decorative trim add detail and dimension to the walls.
For a more rustic, farmhouse look, dentil, rope, and chair rail molding can bring texture to the interior. Additionally, wainscot molding can be used to give the bottom of the walls a barnwood aesthetic.
For any design, it’s important to pick a complementary stain for the molding that coordinates with the shiplap, as well as the style of the room. For a classic look, white or natural wood trim is a popular option, while gray, or even a bold color, such as red, can provide a stylish contrast.
Do you cover nail holes in shiplap?
Yes, it’s important to cover nail holes in shiplap. It’ll help keep the shiplap looking neat and finished and also keep moisture and dirt away from the wall. For example, you can use wood putty, wood filler, caulking, filler sticks or paintable silicone caulk.
Wood putty or wood filler has a putty-like consistency and is going to be the most cost-effective option for covering nail holes in shiplap. It’s a great choice if you’re planning to paint the shiplap and want the patch to blend in with the existing paint color.
Wood putty or filler is also easy to apply, either with a putty knife or your finger.
Caulking is another popular option for filling nail holes in shiplap. It has a thick, sticky consistency and is a flexible option for filling holes. Caulk is relatively inexpensive and easy to apply, and it’s also water-resistant, so it won’t absorb moisture and cause mold or mildew in the hole.
Filler sticks are also a great choice for covering nail holes in shiplap. Filler sticks are made from a blend of wood, wax, and other components and is formulated to perfectly blend in with shiplap, so it looks as natural as possible.
The sticks are easy to apply and blend in with the existing shiplap, so there’s no need for extra sanding or painting.
Finally, paintable silicone caulk is a great choice for sealing nail holes in shiplap. It has a thick, durable consistency and is waterproof, so it will protect the woodgrain from moisture. It’s also paintable, so you can seal and color the holes in one step.
Do you caulk shiplap seams?
Yes, caulking the seams of shiplap is recommended in order to protect the wall and prevent water damage. Caulking will help to fill any gaps between boards, preventing water, dirt, mold, and bugs from entering the wall.
It will also help you to maintain a finished look to the wall. To caulk the seams you need to choose a quality latex caulk and apply it in a continuous bead. Before you start, make sure to clean the area of any debris and dust, and then run the caulk along the length of the board.
Finally, use a wet finger or cloth to smooth the bead of caulk and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for curing time and drying.
What do you use for corners on shiplap?
When installing shiplap, you should use nails or screws to secure the boards to the wall. However, you should use special screws or nails for the outside corners. This helps to ensure that the boards are secure and will stay in place.
Depending on the size and weight of the boards, you may be able to use just 2-3 screws or nails in each corner and they should be positioned towards the top and bottom of the boards. When installing the boards around the corners of a room, you should use mitered joints.
This involves cutting the boards on an angle so that they fit together snugly, creating a corner that looks crisp and clean. To miter the boards and create strong corners, use either a circular saw with a miter guide or a miter saw.
Do you put trim over shiplap?
Yes, you can put trim over shiplap. Trim is a great way to finish off a shiplap wall. It can help create a well-defined look and provide a crisp edge to any paneling or cladding. Trim is usually used around windows and doors and provides a finished appearance.
It can also be used along the bottom of the wall, or around the ceiling, to finish off the look. When putting trim over shiplap, it’s important to remember that shiplap is a material with depth. It’s recommended to use a thicker trim than what is typically used on drywall.
This will help create balance between the shiplap and trim and also help hide any gaps that might be between the panels. Trim pieces can be painted to match the walls, or you can use an accent color to provide contrast.
Additionally, decorative trim can add additional texture to the wall and provide a more interesting overall look.
How do I stop shiplap from warping?
To prevent shiplap from warping, it is important to ensure that it is properly installed and maintained. First, it is important to install the shiplap correctly. When installing, make sure that it is properly spaced and secured.
This includes using the appropriate nails, screws, or other fasteners and spacing the shiplap in a uniform manner. Additionally, allow for ⅛” of expansion space for the material along all sides of the installation.
Second, proper maintenance is a must for keeping shiplap from warping. To ensure this, it is important to make sure that the shiplap is not exposed to moisture and heat. If the shiplap is exposed to consistent moisture or extreme temperatures, it may be at risk of warping or other damage.
Regularly inspect the shiplap for signs of damage or weakness and take immediate steps to mitigate any potential problems.
Finally, sealing your shiplap is the best preventive measure for warping. Sealing your shiplap with a paint or stain of your choice will add additional protection from moisture and excess heat, making it more durable and less prone to warping.
Additionally, it can also provide an added aesthetic advantage.
In summary, to prevent shiplap from warping, install it correctly, perform regular maintenance, and protect it with sealant. Taking these steps should help ensure that your shiplap maintains its appearance and durability.
What happens if shiplap gets wet?
If shiplap gets wet, it can cause a variety of problems. Over time, prolonged exposure to moisture can cause the wood to swell, leading to warping and cupping. This can cause the boards to not fit together properly, making the shiplap look uneven.
Additionally, water caught by the ends of the boards can cause the ends to degrade and rot over time. Lastly, moisture buildup can also cause mold and mildew growth, which can be a hazard to the structure and occupants of the home.
To prevent these issues, it’s important to seal shiplap and make sure all connections are waterproof. Additionally, keeping the wood dry by repairing any leaks or moisture sources is essential for preserving the shiplap and keeping it looking its best.
How do I keep my shiplap clean?
In order to keep your shiplap clean, you will need to start with a good preventative maintenance plan. The best way to keep your shiplap looking good for years to come is to routinely dust, sweep and vacuum any areas where dirt and debris can accumulate.
You can also use a damp (not wet) cloth to wipe down the shiplap with a gentle cleaner that is specifically designed to be used on wood surfaces. As an additional precaution, you might want to apply a layer of clear polyurethane finish or use a furniture polish that is appropriate for use on wood.
This will help to keep dirt, grime, and other debris from becoming embedded in the grooves of your shiplap and creating a difficult-to-remove residue. Additionally, it is important to fix any water leaks that may be occurring in your home immediately, as moisture can cause your shiplap to warp or discolor.
Taking these steps can help you keep your shiplap clean and looking its best.
Can you use shiplap in a shower?
No, using shiplap in a shower is not recommended. While shiplap is a popular material for interior walls, it is not well-suited for wet applications, such as a shower. It is not waterproof, so it will absorb moisture and cause deterioration over time.
Additionally, shiplap is prone to swelling, making it a poor choice for any application with continual moisture. It is also vulnerable to mildew and potential mold growth. In contrast, materials that are specifically designed for wet areas, such as tile, stone, or bath-approved wall panels, are better choices for a shower.
If you are looking for a material with a similar aesthetic, consider using a waterproof tongue-and-groove paneling.
Can you waterproof shiplap?
Yes, it is possible to waterproof shiplap. You should begin by sealing all grooves, joints, or gaps in the wood with sealant or caulk. Pay particular attention to any gaps between boards and/or around windows, doors, or other openings.
Once complete, you can paint the shiplap with a waterproofing paint. This will help prevent water from soaking into and damaging the wood. Additionally, it is highly recommended to apply an additional sealant such as an oil- or water-based polyurethane or a wax-based polish to the surface of the wood to provide added protection from water.
Can shiplap be used outside?
Yes, certain types of shiplap can be used outside. Certain wood and composite materials, such as cedar and plywood, are suitable for outdoor applications and can be used as shiplap. Similarly, some composite materials, such as fiber cement boards, are also suitable for outdoor shiplap applications.
Installing these materials as shiplap can protect the exterior of a home from elements such as rain and wind. However, when using any shiplap materials outdoors, it is important to consider the effects of moisture, UV exposure, and temperature.
Installed correctly and treated regularly, shiplap can withstand the elements and last for many years.
