One of the ways that you can make a statement in your living space is by choosing how you want the walls to look. You can paint the walls, put up wallpaper, texture the walls, or you can use shiplap. Not sure what shiplap is? Read on to learn what it is and the places it can be used in your home.

Shiplap is wooden boards that are connected with an overlapping rabbet joint.  Which means the wood panels have notches formed near the edge of the board so that the pieces can fit together. Once used on ships, these boards make the area weather and waterproof. For your home remodel, this can also make a great pattern on the wall and become a statement piece. The boards can be placed either vertically or horizontally. This can make the area look either longer or taller.

Shiplap can be used in any room in your home. For areas like the bathroom, that see more moisture, you can look into determining if adding a coat of mildew-resistant paint will be necessary. You can also use it on the ceiling, as a backsplash, and in entryways, as well as just the wall. You can use it as an accent in your room by using it in shelving nooks or around the fireplace. Using shiplap eliminates the need for layers and layers of drywall. You don’t need to put shiplap over drywall though, but if it is already there, then it is fine.

Shiplap has been known to collect dust. With all of the grooves that are created, dust can settle, so it is important to make sure that it is kept clean and free from debris. The wood that you use can be chosen based on the location of where it is used in the home. As an example, cedar might be a good wood for the bathroom.

Your design options and choices for your space can be whatever you desire. You can use the shiplap in a larger installation (a wall or room) or you can use it in a smaller way (fireplace or hallway). You have the option for the choice of wood that is best suited to your budget and where it will be located within the home (dryer area or steamier area). Review your budget limitations, the type of wood you would like to use, and everywhere you want to use shiplap. Then enjoy your new look.