How to Install a Shiplap Accent Wall

Shiplap boards have grooves cut into their edges for a tight, overlapping fit. Shiplap paneling can add instant character, texture, a rustic feel and a focal point to any room in your house. It’s affordable and easy to install as a do-it-yourself (DIY) project with just a few basic tools: a saw, level, stud finder, hammer and nails.

In this photo, a whitewashed shiplap accent wall in a living room makes a great backdrop for the caramel leather sofa, artwork and round marble coffee table. A large green plant stands out in the neutral space.

Measure your space to figure out how many planks you’ll need. Store the planks inside your house for at least 10 days after buying them to let the material acclimate to your indoor humidity level.

You can fasten shiplap planks to walls either vertically or horizontally. Simply nail through the drywall directly into wall studs. You can use construction adhesive when installing planks on ceilings or over other surfaces as long as they’re in good condition. Just finish-nail the panels in place to hold them while the adhesive dries.

Trim corners, ceilings and floors with small 1-inch-by-4-inch boards. Options depend on your style preference and skill level. A compound miter saw will help you piece together planks and trim using a mix of butt joints, miter joints and bevel joints. For more tips, see our guide How to Use a Miter Saw.

Looking for ideas for shiplap walls? Create a focal point in an entry or living space with shiplap. In this bedroom, they hung the rustic boards in a chevron pattern. A linen headboard, neutral blankets and pillows, as well as a white lamp soften the look. Here are some other tips and ideas.

• If you prefer a rustic feel, consider reclaimed wood. 
  
• White shiplap works well in coastal, transitional and modern spaces. 
  
• Use whitewashed boards in a more traditional or cottagecore setting. The whitewashed finish in a nursery or child's room would pair well with a chalky-painted table or a repurposed dresser. Learn to apply a DIY chalk-finish paint. 
  
• If you want to create a moody feel, consider painting the shiplap in a dark color. This works well in powder rooms, bedrooms or offices. 
  

White is a common paint choice for shiplap, but you shouldn’t feel limited by its popularity. While white shiplap looks great as it brightens a room and gives it that classic farmhouse feel, you can paint shiplap any color.

Consider a bold color choice to enhance the accent wall effect or go with unpainted shiplap wall paneling for a truly traditional, textured look. You can also lightly sand patches of the painted shiplap to give it that rustic, worn look.

If you'd like to eliminate painting and sanding altogether, there are now pre-painted or stained boards. Depending on the look you're trying to achieve, select boards that have a finished or more rustic look. They come in a wide array of colors including:

• Greige 
• Navy Blue 
• Black 
• Sage Green 
• Teal 
• Red 
• Gray 
• Off-White or White

Shiplap boards are a classic look, but if you're looking for something more modern, consider fluted walls. Fluted walls appear as thin strips of wood that run vertically for a streamlined and textured look. 

These panels are usually installed on walls, but there are plenty of other uses to add visual interest to your space. Here are a few ideas:

• Install on the front of a kitchen island. 
  
• Install on a dining banquette. 
  
• Use fluted panels in the center of kitchen, bathroom or laundry Shaker cabinets. 
  
• Use panels to create a modern headboard. 
  
• If you're installing panels on a wall that has a door, cover the door as well. It will create a seamless look. 
  
• Use fluted wall panels to define a smaller space. Continue the panels up the ceiling for a dramatic look. 

Fluted walls are typical found in white, light oak, gray, ebony and deep brown. You can also purchase unfinished panels to paint or stain the color of your choice.

Shiplap wall panels are an easy and inexpensive way to add texture and depth to your home. Shiplap can be used in modern, traditional, transitional or rustic spaces. They come in numerous colors or can be painted or stained to the color of your choice.

Installation is easy using a few basic tools. If you need help measuring your space or have questions, visit your local Lowe's and a store associate will be happy to assist you. Learn more about wall panel ideas for your home.