Shiplap ceilings are considered a classic design feature in contemporary houses and commercial spaces. They can transform any space with their simple forms and rustic appeal.
Shiplap is a cost-effective and adaptable choice for any style, whether farmhouse or modern. It can be installed in various spaces and offers a simple look that goes well with contemporary and classic home designs.
Moreover, the option brings a lot of benefits to homeowners, including durability, insulation, soundproofing, and ease of installation.
Let's delve into this material and explore the best shiplap ceiling ideas for your space!
What are Shiplap Ceilings?
Shiplap is a rabbet-edged wooden panel that allows boards to fit together and overlap. It features long, horizontal, or vertical boards usually painted gray or white. Shiplap is a popular option in interior design because it creates depth and attracts attention upward when utilized in ceiling designs.
Common materials for shiplap ceilings are wood, MDF, or PVC. Since shiplap offers durability and weatherproofing capabilities, it was originally used in barns and ships.
Due to its rustic beauty, shiplap is becoming more and more popular. It can fit cottage-style settings as well as farmhouse trends, giving any space character, warmth, and texture.
Why Shiplap Wood Ceilings Are A Great Choice?
Aesthetics
Shiplap wood ceilings provide character, warmth, and texture to spaces, giving contemporary interiors a rustic elegance or a homey cabin vibe. They can be painted or stained to fit any type of design.
Durability
The material is long-lasting and requires low maintenance. Because it's made of high-quality wood, they won't split, break, or warp. The tongue and groove boards help older houses hide flaws or uneven textures by providing a solid surface.
Insulation
Since wood is a natural insulator, shiplap wood ceilings can keep a room warm in the winter and cool in the summer, lowering energy expenses and improving comfort.
Soundproofing
This type of ceiling efficiently absorbs sound and lowers noise levels in rooms. It's especially helpful in homes with high ceilings or open floor layouts, where sound may easily propagate throughout the area.
Cost-effective
Shiplap ceilings are cheaper than other solutions, especially when combined with MDF or pre-finished wood boards.
Easy Installation
This option is simple to install. It can be placed directly over existing walls or ceilings, saving time and money. With some skills, you can finish a DIY project within a week.
Popular Shiplap Ceiling Ideas
1. Traditional White Shiplap Ceiling
If you pursue coastal or cottage-style homes, why don't you try white shiplap ceilings? The design will enhance natural light and bring a bright, fresh, and airy atmosphere.
2. Rustic Wood-Finished Shiplap
Wood ceiling panels are perfect for a natural look. The wood tones are various, from rich and dark to light, allowing you to create the most sophisticated touch to your space.
3. Painted Shiplap Ceilings
Shiplap can be painted with bold colors (such as black) or neutral tones (such as beige and gray) to complement your interior. While the former helps create a focal point for your room, the latter provides appropriate warmth without breaking the space's harmony.
4. Shiplap Ceilings with Exposed Beams
One of the best shiplap ceiling ideas to bring depth and dimension to your space is to combine it with exposed beams. The design is especially suitable for modern and timeless concepts. You can also try different accessories to make your design stand out.
5. Modern Shiplap Ceiling Designs
Minimizing spaces between boards can create a sleeker look for modern houses. Vertical shiplap installations can replace the traditional horizontal layout to achieve a more polished appearance.
Costs of Shiplap Ceilings: An Overview
Shiplap Ceiling: Material Costs
The cost of shiplap ceilings varies based on materials. Wood shiplaps range from $5 to $8/ sqft, while pre-painted or stained ones are around $1 more expensive. The cheapest option is MDF shiplap, costing from $1 to $4/ sqft.
Shiplap Ceiling: Labor Costs
If it's a DIY project, you'll need to count the tools' cost and time cost for installation. Meanwhile, you may need to pay from $3 to $6/ sqft to hire a professional.
Size of the Room
The cost of materials for small rooms is around $500 to $900, while it can be more than $1,000 for larger spaces.
Additional Costs
You should count the cost of ceiling preparation ($1-$2/ sqft) and finishing touches ($1-$3/ linear foot).
Overall Cost Estimates
With all of the above, DIY installation for a middle-sized room costs $500-$800. If you go for a professional one, you can expect to spend $1,000-$3,000.
Shiplap Ceiling Maintenance and Care
Regular Dusting
Shiplap ceilings are prone to dust buildup, particularly in spaces with high ceilings or exposed beams. Depending on the amount of dust, you should use a duster or vacuum with a brush attachment every few weeks to keep the area clean. Use an extended duster without ladders for areas that are difficult to reach.
Cleaning Stains and Smudges
It's advisable to use a moist towel and stay away from strong chemicals while cleaning wood-finished shiplap ceilings. A light wood cleaner will help if the stains don't go away.
Meanwhile, a moist cloth and mild soap make cleaning painted ceilings simpler. You can also combine vinegar and water to remove tough stains.
Handling Cracks and Gaps
Over time, variations in temperature and humidity can cause wood shiplap to expand and contract, creating tiny fractures or gaps. Apply wood filler, sand it smooth, and then apply matching paint or stain if necessary to get rid of the issues. A dehumidifier can also stop significant wood movement and cracking in high-moisture areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Repainting or Restaining
Paint fading or peeling may be avoided by repainting every few years, particularly in areas with high humidity or sunshine. Thorough cleaning and a light sanding will give the ceilings a smooth finish. Before applying a fresh stain, remember to clean and carefully sand the surface to ensure equal coverage.
For natural wood shiplap, restaining may be required every few years to preserve its rich color. Surface cleaning and sanding are also necessary for equal coverage.
Preventing Moisture Damage
Homeowners should ensure there is enough ventilation and take quick care of any water damage to avoid causing harm to shiplap ceilings in humid spaces like kitchens or bathrooms. Applying a clear finish to wood shiplap can also give it more moisture resistance, extending its lifespan.
Inspect Regularly
To stop more damage and preserve the integrity of your shiplap ceilings, check them frequently for signs of wear and tear, such as loose boards, cracks, or discoloration.
Shiplap Ceilings: Timeless Design with Woody Walls!
With a range of designs for both modern and traditional homes, shiplap ceilings are a timeless and adaptable architectural element that can improve the appearance of any space. Shiplap ceiling ideas, whether done professionally or as a do-it-yourself project, may give your house character, warmth, and texture.
And don't forget to explore Woody Walls products to transform your space successfully!
FAQs
1. Can I use shiplap ceilings in the bathroom?
Yes. It's possible to use shiplap ceilings in the bathroom, but ensure you don't install them in highly humid areas.
2. Is shiplap better than drywall for ceilings?
It's hard to tell which one is better than the other. The texture and visual interest of shiplap benefit aesthetic appeal. Meanwhile, drywall is a practical and cost-effective option for most designs.
3. Can you install a shiplap ceiling yourself?
Yes, you can. With basic DIY skills and the right tools, you can proceed with the straightforward installation process. Yet, for complex areas, you may need professional help.