Shiplap Calculator

Calculate total wall area by multiplying wall length by wall height. Subtract window and door openings. Divide by the coverage area of one board (board width in feet times board length). Add 10-15% waste for cuts, mistakes, and pattern matching. For example, a 10 ft by 8 ft wall = 80 sq ft. Using 6-inch wide boards: each linear foot covers 0.5 sq ft. You need 160 linear feet plus 15% waste = 184 linear feet. Always measure each wall separately for accuracy.

Shiplap has a rabbet cut on the top and bottom edges that creates a small gap (reveal) between boards when installed, giving the characteristic shadow line. Tongue and groove has a protruding tongue on one edge and a groove on the opposite that fit together tightly with no visible gap. Shiplap is generally easier to install, more forgiving of imperfect walls, and costs slightly less. Tongue and groove creates a seamless flat surface preferred for ceilings and floors.

Horizontal shiplap is traditional and makes rooms feel wider. It requires fewer cuts, is faster to install, and highlights the ceiling height. Vertical shiplap makes ceilings appear higher, creates a modern farmhouse look, and can make narrow rooms feel wider. Vertical installation uses more material due to increased waste from length cuts. Consider the room dimensions and desired aesthetic. Mixing both orientations in different rooms or as an accent wall creates visual interest.

Material costs: MDF shiplap $2-4 per sq ft, pine $3-6 per sq ft, PVC $4-8 per sq ft, cedar $5-10 per sq ft. Labor costs: $2-5 per sq ft for installation. A standard 10x10 room with 8ft ceilings (320 sq ft of wall area) costs approximately: Materials $800-1,600, Labor $640-1,600, Total $1,440-3,200. Painting or staining adds $1-3 per sq ft. DIY saves 40-60% of total cost. Get multiple quotes for professional installation.