Shiplap Calculator
Calculate shiplap materials and installation costs for interior or exterior wall covering projects. Our calculator includes trim, fasteners, and finishing estimates.
How to Calculate Shiplap Materials
Shiplap calculation involves understanding board coverage, installation patterns, and material requirements. Here's how to estimate your project accurately.
Step 1: Measure Your Wall Area
Start with accurate wall measurements:
- Measure wall length and height for each wall
- Example: 12' long x 8' high = 96 sq ft per wall
- Multiply by number of walls to cover
- Total wall area determines material needs
Step 2: Calculate Linear Feet Required
Linear feet calculation depends on installation direction:
- Horizontal: (wall height / board coverage) x wall length
- Vertical: (wall length / board coverage) x wall height
- Board coverage varies by width (1x6 = 5.25" actual coverage)
- Example: 8' / 5.25" = 18 courses x 12' = 216 linear feet
Step 3: Add Waste Factor
Include extra material for cuts and mistakes:
- Experienced installer: 5-10% waste
- Standard project: 10-15% waste
- Complex cuts or DIY: 15-20% waste
- Example: 216 LF x 1.10 = 238 linear feet needed
Step 4: Convert to Board Feet
Board feet calculation for material ordering:
- Board feet = Linear feet x width x thickness / 12
- Example: 238 LF x 5.5" x 1" / 12 = 109 board feet
- Most lumber priced per board foot
- Check lumber yard pricing for bulk discounts
Shiplap Material Options
Choosing the right shiplap material affects both appearance and long-term performance. Consider these factors when selecting your boards.
| Material | Cost per BF | Durability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pine Shiplap | $3.50 | Good | Interior walls, budget projects |
| Douglas Fir | $4.25 | Very Good | Strong, takes stain well |
| Prefinished Pine | $7.50 | Good | Quick installation, consistent finish |
| Cedar Shiplap | $8.50 | Excellent | Exterior use, natural weather resistance |
| Oak Shiplap | $12.00 | Excellent | Premium interior, high-end projects |
| Reclaimed Wood | $15.00 | Variable | Unique character, eco-friendly |
Board Width Selection
- 1x4 (3.5" actual): Narrow spacing, more joints, traditional look
- 1x6 (5.5" actual): Most popular width, good balance of coverage and appearance
- 1x8 (7.25" actual): Fewer joints, faster installation, modern appearance
- 1x10 & 1x12: Wide boards for dramatic effect, fewer seams
Installation Patterns
- Horizontal: Traditional farmhouse style, makes rooms appear wider
- Vertical: Modern look, makes ceilings appear higher
- Diagonal: Dynamic pattern but requires more waste allowance
- Mixed patterns: Accent walls with different orientations
Installation Tips
- Start installation from bottom up for horizontal shiplap
- Use level and chalk lines to maintain straight courses
- Pre-drill holes near board ends to prevent splitting
- Leave small gaps for seasonal wood movement
- Use finish nails or brad nails for clean appearance
- Consider vapor barrier for exterior applications
Finishing Options
- Natural/Clear finish: Shows wood grain, requires regular maintenance
- Painted: Classic farmhouse white most popular, hides imperfections
- Stained: Enhances wood grain while adding color
- Whitewashed: Semi-transparent painted look, trending style
- Prefinished: Factory finish, consistent appearance, ready to install
Project Considerations
- Acclimate boards to installation environment for 48-72 hours
- Order 10-15% extra for waste, future repairs, and test cuts
- Consider professional installation for large or complex projects
- Plan electrical and plumbing rough-in before shiplap installation
- Check local building codes for fire-rated assemblies if required
Cite this page as:
Daniel, P. Shiplap Calculator. Available at: https://constructioncalculators.com/shiplap-calculator/. Accessed: October 25, 2026.