DIY Guide To Installing A Shiplap Accent Wall

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Installing a shiplap accent wall is a fantastic way to add a touch of modern elegance and rustic charm to any room in your home. This DIY project is relatively straightforward and can be completed with basic carpentry skills and common tools. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps needed to install a shiplap accent wall, covering everything from preparation to finishing touches.

Why Choose Shiplap?

Shiplap has become a popular choice for home decor due to its versatility and aesthetic appeal. Originally used on the outside of ships, shiplap is characterized by its horizontal planks with a signature gap between them. This gap allows the wall color to show through, creating a visually appealing and modern look. Shiplap can be used in various styles, from rustic farmhouse to seaside cottage, making it a versatile option for any room.

Materials Needed

Before you start your project, it's essential to gather all the necessary materials. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:

• Shiplap Boards: These can be pre-primed or unfinished. For this guide, we will focus on using real shiplap boards.
• Construction Adhesive: Optional, but recommended for added stability.
• Brad Nails or Finish Nails: These are used to secure the shiplap boards to the wall.
• Lightweight Spackle or Wood Filler: For filling nail holes and gaps.
• Paintable Caulk: For sealing seams and corners.
• Paint and Primer: If your shiplap boards are not pre-primed, you will need to apply primer before painting.
• Tools:
  • Miter Saw: For cutting shiplap boards to size.
  • Brad Nailer or Nail Gun: For attaching shiplap boards to the wall.
  • Level: Ensures that your shiplap wall is straight and level.
  • Dremel or Jigsaw: Optional, used for cutting out holes for vents or outlets.
  • Table Saw or Circular Saw: Optional, used for cutting larger pieces of shiplap.
  • Measuring Tape: For measuring the wall and shiplap boards.
  • Stud Finder: To locate wall studs.
  • Prybar & Utility Cutter: For removing old baseboards and trim (optional).

Step-by-Step Guide

Determine the Amount of Shiplap Boards Needed

The first step in your DIY shiplap accent wall project is to determine how many shiplap boards you will need. Measure the width of your wall(s) where the shiplap will be installed. Divide the wall width by the shiplap board width to get an estimate of how many boards you'll need. However, because of the shiplap gap, the actual width of each board can vary slightly. It's best to get a few extra boards to account for any waste or unexpected cuts.

Prepare the Space

Before you start installing your shiplap accent wall, it's crucial to prepare the space. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Remove Everything: Take everything off the wall, including any nails, baseboards, crown molding, and trim. Use a putty knife to gently pry off these items.
2. Clean the Wall: Wipe down the walls and baseboards to give yourself a clean surface to work on.
3. Remove Wall Plates and Outlet Covers: Take out any wall plates and outlet covers to ensure that your shiplap wall is smooth and even.
4. Let Shiplap Boards Acclimate: Open your boxes of shiplap boards and let them sit in the room for at least 48 hours to acclimate to the humidity and moisture in the space.

Measure and Mark the Wall

Once your space is prepared, it's time to measure and mark the wall.

1. Measure Wall Height and Width: Measure the height and width of your wall to determine how much shiplap you need. Add 10% to your total to account for any waste or unexpected cuts.
2. Locate Wall Studs: Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs. Most studs are 16 inches or 24 inches apart. Mark each stud with a vertical chalk line for easy identification.

Draw a Straight Line

Using a level, draw a straight horizontal line along the wall from one end to the other. This line will serve as your guide for installing the shiplap boards.

Install the First Row

Line up the top edge of the bottom row of boards with the horizontal line you drew in step 4. Make sure your board lies on or overlaps the vertical stud chalk line. Use adhesive glue or nails to secure the first row of shiplap boards to the wall.

Add Spacers for Authentic Look

To give your shiplap wall an authentic look, place a nickel every few feet between the bottom board and the board above it. This will create the signature gap between the shiplap boards.

Cut and Place Boards

Continue cutting and placing boards to stagger cut ends from row to row. Repeat this process until your wall is complete. If two boards meet at the same stud, place the first piece halfway onto the stud and nail it in place. Start the next piece on the same stud and cut to fit if necessary.

Fill Nail Holes and Gaps

Once all the shiplap boards are in place, fill any nail holes or gaps with lightweight spackle or wood filler. Let it dry and then lightly sand it to smooth out the surface.

Caulk Seams and Corners

Apply paintable caulk to seal any seams or corners where the shiplap boards meet. This will ensure a smooth finish and prevent any gaps from showing.

Paint or Stain Shiplap Boards

If your shiplap boards are not pre-primed, apply primer first. Then paint or stain them according to your desired color. For a classic look, choose a neutral color like Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore in eggshell finish.

Add Baseboards and Moulding

Finally, add matching baseboards and moulding using finishing nails to cover any gaps between your wall and the floor. This will give your shiplap accent wall a professional finish.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a Level: A crooked line in the middle of a room will be very noticeable. Make sure your guideline is straight by placing your level at different points on the guideline.
• Cut Holes for Vents and Outlets: Use a jigsaw to cut holes for vents or outlets. Make a paper template of any vents, plates, or outlets to ensure accurate cuts.
• Stagger Cut Ends: To create a visually appealing pattern, stagger cut ends from row to row. This will make your shiplap accent wall look more authentic.
• Use Adhesive Glue: Applying adhesive glue to the back of shiplap boards can help hold them in place before nailing them into studs. This is especially useful if your walls are not straight.

Conclusion

Installing a shiplap accent wall is a rewarding DIY project that can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of any room. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve a professional-looking result without breaking the bank. Remember to prepare your space thoroughly, measure accurately, and use the right tools for the job. With patience and practice, you'll be able to create a stunning shiplap accent wall that adds character and charm to your home.

Additional Resources

For more detailed instructions and visual guides, consider the following resources:

• YouTube Video Tutorial: Watch a step-by-step video tutorial on how to install shiplap on interior walls.
• DIY Shiplap Wall Tutorial: Follow a comprehensive guide on how to install a shiplap wall, including tips on painting and finishing.
• Shiplap Installation Guide: Refer to a detailed guide on how to install shiplap paneling sheets for creating an amazing white accent wall.

By following this guide and utilizing these resources, you'll be well-equipped to tackle your DIY shiplap accent wall project with confidence and success.