Shiplap Wall Cost: How Much to Install & DIY Prices

Ever wondered how much it costs to shiplap a wall? Shiplap, a classic wooden board, has gained popularity in recent years, thanks to its rustic charm and versatility. It's a beautiful way to add texture and character to your walls. However, the cost can vary greatly depending on several factors. Let's dive into the details to help you budget for your next shiplap project.

Before we delve into the cost, let's briefly understand what shiplap is. Shiplap is a type of wooden board characterized by a groove on one edge and a tongue on the other, allowing the boards to fit together snugly. It's typically made from wood species like pine, cedar, or reclaimed wood.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Shiplap

The cost of shiplap can vary significantly based on several factors. Understanding these can help you estimate the cost more accurately.

1. **Material Cost**: The type of wood and its quality are the primary cost determinants. For instance, reclaimed wood or hardwoods like oak or maple will be more expensive than pine or cedar. Also, wider or longer boards can cost more due to the increased material usage.

Wood Species and Quality

Here's a rough breakdown of costs for different wood species:

• Pine: $2 - $5 per square foot
• Cedar: $3 - $7 per square foot
• Reclaimed Wood: $5 - $15 per square foot
• Hardwoods (Oak, Maple): $7 - $15 per square foot

Board Size

Larger boards require more material and thus cost more. Here's a rough estimate:

• 6" - 8" wide boards: $2 - $5 per square foot
• 10" - 12" wide boards: $3 - $7 per square foot
• 14" and wider boards: $5 - $15 per square foot

Additional Costs to Consider

Besides the cost of shiplap itself, there are other expenses to consider.

1. **Installation Cost**: If you're not installing the shiplap yourself, you'll need to factor in labor costs. Professional installation can range from $5 to $15 per square foot, depending on your location and the complexity of the job.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Installing shiplap yourself can save you a significant amount of money. However, it requires time, skill, and the right tools. Here's a rough estimate of the labor cost:

• DIY: $0 - $500 (for tools and materials)
• Professional: $5 - $15 per square foot

2. **Preparation and Finishing Costs**: Before installing shiplap, you may need to remove existing wall coverings, repair any damage, and prime the walls. After installation, you'll need to paint or seal the shiplap. These additional costs can range from $1 to $5 per square foot.

Preparation and Finishing Steps

Here's a breakdown of preparation and finishing costs:

• Removing existing wall coverings: $0.50 - $2 per square foot
• Repairing walls: $1 - $3 per square foot
• Priming walls: $0.50 - $2 per square foot
• Painting or sealing shiplap: $1 - $3 per square foot

3. **Waste and Overage**: It's a good idea to buy an extra 10-15% of shiplap to account for waste and overage. This can add an additional $2 - $5 per square foot to your material cost.

Calculating the Total Cost

Now that we've covered all the cost factors, let's calculate the total cost for a typical 10' x 10' room with 8' ceilings.

Example Calculation

Assuming you choose 8" wide pine shiplap at $3 per square foot, with professional installation at $10 per square foot, and additional preparation and finishing costs of $2 per square foot, the total cost would be:

• Material Cost: 100 sq. ft. x $3/sq. ft. = $300
• Installation Cost: 100 sq. ft. x $10/sq. ft. = $1,000
• Preparation and Finishing Cost: 100 sq. ft. x $2/sq. ft. = $200
• Waste and Overage: 100 sq. ft. x 15% = $15
• Total Cost: $300 + $1,000 + $200 + $15 = $1,515

So, for this example, the total cost to shiplap a 10' x 10' room would be approximately $1,515. However, this is just an example, and your actual cost may vary based on your specific project.

In conclusion, the cost to shiplap a wall can range significantly depending on the type of wood, board size, installation method, and additional costs. By understanding these factors, you can better estimate the cost for your own project and make informed decisions about your budget. Happy shiplapping!