A shiplap backsplash can add organic warmth along with sleek, stylish appeal to any kitchen design. This popular backsplash option provides texture, depth, and visual interest while also being an affordable and DIY-friendly choice. In this blog post, we’ll explore why shiplap backsplashes are so popular, provide design ideas and inspiration, and detail how to install a shiplap backsplash in your own kitchen.
What is Shiplap?
Shiplap refers to wide, horizontal boards with tapered edges that allow them to be joined tightly together to create a flush surface. The boards have a lip cut along one edge and a corresponding rabbet cut along the other. When installed together, these interlocking cuts create tight seams and give shiplap its signature stepped, staggered visual effect.
Traditionally made of solid wood, today’s shiplap boards are also commonly made from plywood or engineered wood. The planks are milled with decorative grooves to emulate the look of authentic wood shiplap. Shiplap comes pre-primed and is available in a variety of stains and paintable finishes.
Benefits of a Shiplap Backsplash
There are many reasons a shiplap backsplash can be an excellent choice for your kitchen:
Organic, Natural Look
With its varied texture, light wood tones, and visible seams, shiplap has a rustic, organic aesthetic. It provides natural warmth and charm to balance sleek, modern kitchen elements like stainless steel appliances and countertops. The subtle imperfections and natural pattern of real wood give shiplap loads of character.
Budget-Friendly
Unlike stone or tile, shiplap is an affordable backsplash option. The average cost of a shiplap backsplash is $3-5 per square foot installed. This cost can be even lower if you opt to install it yourself. The simple boards are easy to cut, so shiplap backsplash is a great DIY project for any skill level.
Easy to Install
Shiplap’s simple interlocking board design means it installs quickly and easily, even for DIYers. The boards simply nail or screw into studs or a substrate like plywood. Prefinished boards don’t require staining or painting. You can install shiplap horizontally, vertically, or diagonally for different visual effects.
Durable and Water-Resistant
Quality shiplap made of moisture-resistant plywood or wood holds up well in kitchens. The thick boards are durable, and the tight seams don’t allow water to penetrate. Properly sealed, a shiplap backsplash can last for many years with minimal maintenance required.
Design Versatility
Shiplap backsplashes work with almost any kitchen style from modern farmhouse to industrial, cottage, and more. Both painted and natural wood shiplap options allow you to match any color palette. Mixing stained shiplap with painted boards adds even more character.
Shiplap Backsplash Design Ideas
From color choices to creative shapes, shiplap offers tons of design possibilities:
Two-Tone Style
Pairing stained natural wood shiplap with crisp white painted boards adds beautiful contrast and visual interest. Try alternating each row or creating a checkerboard pattern.
All-White Palette
For a clean, bright look, choose shiplap boards painted in your favorite white or light gray hue. White shiplap keeps the space light and pairs perfectly with marble counters and subway tile.
Natural Wood Finish
Stained shiplap in a warm wood tone gives a rustic, cabin-like feel. Opt for a rich walnut or ebony stain or keep it light with a whitewash finish. Natural wood shiplap pairs well with stone surfaces.
Bold Color Statement
Make your shiplap backsplash the focal point by choosing a vibrant shade like navy blue, emerald green, or brick red for high-impact style. Paint just some of the boards in a bright color to create an eye-catching accent wall.
Vertical Installation
Running shiplap vertically instead of horizontally gives it a more modern, sleek look. Vertical shiplap makes the space feel taller and highlights your design and color choices.
Herringbone Pattern
For serious visual wow-factor, arrange your shiplap in a herringbone pattern. It brings movement and dimension to the backsplash while complementing both traditional and contemporary spaces.
Creative Shapes
Cut shiplap into unique geometric shapes like triangles, diamonds, hexagons, or curved boards. Mixing up the shapes and sizes makes for a dynamic, one-of-a-kind backsplash design.
Open Shelving
Incorporate wood shiplap shelving into your backsplash design. The shelving provides function while complementing and enhancing the shiplap boards behind it.
How to Install a Shiplap Backsplash
Installing a shiplap backsplash is a relatively easy DIY project. Here are the basic steps:
Choose Your Boards
Select quality plywood or wood shiplap boards no wider than 6 inches. Have boards cut to your desired length at the home improvement store. Purchase boards pre-primed and pre-painted for easiest installation.
Prepare the Wall
Make sure the wall surface is smooth and clean. Repair any imperfections in the drywall. Remove any outlets or other obstacles. Add ledger boards horizontally along the bottom and top to support the shiplap ends.
Measure and Mark Studs
Locate and mark the wall studs using a stud finder. You’ll attach the shiplap directly to the studs. Having a friend help makes this easier.
Cut Boards to Length
Measure and mark boards to fit your space. Cut boards to length one at a time using a miter saw with a fine finish blade.
Fasten Boards to Studs
Position the first board along the bottom ledger with the rabbeted edge down. Drill pilot holes and use finish nails or screws to attach through the shiplap and into the studs. Leave 1/4″ gaps between board ends.
Continue Installing Boards
Install subsequent rows one at a time, interlocking the tongue and groove edges as you go up. Check rows for level frequently. Attach all boards directly to studs or blocking.
Seal and Caulk
Once all boards are installed, apply water-resistant polyurethane sealant to protect the wood. Use painters caulk between boards and around edges for a watertight finish.
FAQ
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about shiplap backsplash:
Is shiplap cheaper than tile?
Yes, shiplap is generally a more budget-friendly backsplash option than tile. The average total cost of a shiplap backsplash installed is $3-5 per square foot. Tile backsplash can run $10-25 per square foot installed.
What tools do I need to install shiplap?
You’ll need basic DIY tools: tape measure, stud finder, level, caulk gun, drill/driver, miter saw, finish nails or screws, and polyurethane sealant. Use painter’s caulk for gaps. Rental tools can help cut installation costs further.
Should I use wood or plywood shiplap?
Plywood shiplap is most common since it’s water-resistant and durable in kitchens. Real wood looks more authentic but requires extra sealing. Either option can work well but avoid MDF, which doesn’t hold up to moisture.
Should shiplap boards be spaced apart?
Yes, you should leave a 1/4-inch gap between shiplap boards. This allows the wood room to expand and contract with humidity changes. Don’t install boards flush edge-to-edge. Caulk will fill the gaps.
How do you cut shiplap boards?
Use a miter saw with a fine-finish blade to cut shiplap boards one at a time. Measure and mark your cut lines carefully. Hold boards securely and cut slowly for clean edges. Make test cuts on scrap boards first.
Can you put shiplap directly on drywall?
Shiplap should be securely attached to wall studs, not just drywall alone. Using ledger boards and additional blocking provides strength. The boards’ weight requires sturdy attachment points.
Does shiplap need to be sealed?
It’s highly recommended to seal shiplap with water-resistant polyurethane. This protects the wood from moisture damage. Apply 2-3 coats, letting it dry completely between coats for best durability.
Get the Warm, Rustic Look of Shiplap
With its unmatched blend of rustic warmth and modern, minimalist appeal, it’s easy to see why shiplap backsplash has become so popular. Choosing this approachable, budget-friendly backsplash option allows you to give your kitchen just the look and feel you want.
Whether you prefer understated white shiplap or boldly stained wood, installing it vertically or in herringbone patterns, a shiplap backsplash brings organic texture and cozy style to any space. With some simple tools and DIY spirit, you can transform your kitchen with this on-trend, versatile design option.