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Add warmth, texture, and timeless appeal to your space with high-quality shiplap. Perfect for accent walls, ceilings, or entire rooms, shiplap is a versatile design choice that suits both modern and rustic interiors. We offer a wide selection of shiplap profiles and finishes, including painted, primed, and natural wood options—ideal for DIY projects, renovations, or custom builds. Whether you're going for a coastal cottage feel or a clean contemporary look, our shiplap products are easy to install and crafted for lasting performance. At Windsor Plywood, we specialize in hard-to-source wood products, and many of our shiplap boards are made from responsibly harvested Canadian wood. Visit your local store to explore our in-stock selection or ask about special orders. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to help bring your vision to life with expert advice and personalized service every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is shiplap and how does it differ from tongue-and-groove panelling?
Shiplap has a rabbet cut on each long edge, creating an overlapping joint between boards that leaves a small, consistent reveal gap. Tongue-and-groove joins boards with a tight interlocking profile that eliminates the gap. Shiplap's reveal gap creates shadow lines that add texture and visual depth, the defining aesthetic of the shiplap look.
Is shiplap suitable for exterior use?
Yes. Shiplap is one of the traditional exterior siding profiles and performs well when installed in the correct orientation with proper drainage. Exterior shiplap should be in a species with natural decay resistance or be treated, and must be primed and painted on all faces and edges before installation. Interior shiplap products are not rated for exterior exposure.
What is the standard gap reveal on shiplap panelling?
The shadow gap on typical residential shiplap is between 1/8 inch and 1/4 inch. Wider reveals create a more pronounced texture; narrower reveals read as a subtler surface. The reveal size is built into the board profile, so you do not adjust it during installation. Choose a profile with the reveal size that matches the look you want.
Can shiplap be installed on a ceiling?
Yes, and ceiling shiplap installations are increasingly popular in both rustic and contemporary interiors. The installation process is the same as wall shiplap, using finish nails into ceiling joists. Lighter-weight MDF shiplap is easier to handle overhead than solid wood. Confirm that the ceiling framing spacing aligns with the board width for full support.
Does shiplap need to be painted or can it be left natural?
Real wood shiplap can be left natural with a clear sealer, stained, whitewashed, or painted. MDF shiplap is designed for paint and should always be primed and painted, as raw MDF will absorb moisture and degrade if left unsealed. The most popular current finish in contemporary interiors is white paint, which maximizes the visual contrast of the shadow gap.