Shiplap Siding Calculator

Material & Cost Calculator

Calculate shiplap siding materials, coverage area, and costs for interior and exterior projects. Essential for contractors and DIY enthusiasts to estimate material requirements and installation costs.

Examples

Click on any example to load it into the calculator.

Interior Accent Wall

Interior

Standard interior shiplap installation for a feature wall in a living room.

Wall Height: 8 ft

Wall Width: 12 ft

Shiplap Width: 6 in

Overlap: 0.5 in

Shiplap Length: 8 ft

Price per Square Foot: $3.25/sq ft

Wastage Percentage: 10%

Exterior Siding

Exterior

Exterior shiplap siding installation for a small section of house exterior.

Wall Height: 10 ft

Wall Width: 16 ft

Shiplap Width: 8 in

Overlap: 0.75 in

Shiplap Length: 12 ft

Price per Square Foot: $4.50/sq ft

Wastage Percentage: 15%

Bathroom Wall

Bathroom

Shiplap installation for a bathroom wall with moisture-resistant material.

Wall Height: 7 ft

Wall Width: 8 ft

Shiplap Width: 4 in

Overlap: 0.25 in

Shiplap Length: 8 ft

Price per Square Foot: $2.75/sq ft

Wastage Percentage: 8%

Material Calculation Only

Material Only

Calculate shiplap materials without pricing information for budget planning.

Wall Height: 9 ft

Wall Width: 14 ft

Shiplap Width: 6 in

Overlap: 0.5 in

Shiplap Length: 10 ft

Wastage Percentage: 12%

Other Titles
Understanding Shiplap Siding Calculator: A Comprehensive Guide
Learn how to calculate shiplap siding materials, coverage area, and costs for your interior and exterior projects.

What is Shiplap Siding?

  • Understanding Shiplap Construction
  • Types of Shiplap
  • Standard Dimensions and Installation
Shiplap siding is a type of wooden board siding characterized by rabbeted edges that overlap to create a tight, weather-resistant seal. The boards are installed horizontally with each board overlapping the one below it, creating a distinctive stepped appearance.
Shiplap vs. Traditional Siding
Unlike traditional clapboard siding, shiplap boards have rabbeted edges that create a tighter seal and better weather resistance. This makes shiplap ideal for both interior and exterior applications, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional protection.
Common Shiplap Dimensions
Standard shiplap boards typically range from 4 to 12 inches in width, with 6 and 8 inches being the most common. Lengths vary from 8 to 16 feet, with 8, 10, and 12 feet being standard options. Thickness usually ranges from 3/8 to 3/4 inches.

Key Concepts:

  • Shiplap has rabbeted edges for tight overlapping
  • Standard widths: 4", 6", 8", 12"
  • Common lengths: 8', 10', 12', 16'

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Shiplap Calculator

  • Measuring Your Wall
  • Understanding Overlap
  • Calculating Material Requirements
This calculator helps you determine the exact amount of shiplap material needed for your project, accounting for overlaps, wastage, and cost considerations. Follow these steps for accurate calculations.
1. Measure Your Wall Dimensions
Start by measuring the height and width of the wall in feet. For accurate calculations, measure from the base to the top of where you want the shiplap to end, and the full width of the wall section.
2. Choose Your Shiplap Specifications
Select the width of your shiplap boards in inches. Consider the overlap amount - this is the portion of each board that will be covered by the board above it, typically 1/4 to 3/4 inches.
3. Account for Wastage
Include a wastage percentage to account for cuts, mistakes, and unusable pieces. For simple installations, 10% is usually sufficient. For complex cuts or patterns, consider 15-20%.

Calculation Steps:

  • Measure wall height and width in feet
  • Determine shiplap width and overlap
  • Add wastage percentage for cuts and mistakes

Real-World Applications of Shiplap Siding

  • Interior Design Applications
  • Exterior Siding Solutions
  • Commercial and Residential Uses
Shiplap siding has become increasingly popular in both interior and exterior applications, offering a timeless aesthetic that works well in various architectural styles and design schemes.
Interior Applications
Interior shiplap is commonly used for accent walls, fireplace surrounds, bathroom walls, and ceiling treatments. It adds texture and warmth to modern and traditional interiors alike, creating focal points and architectural interest.
Exterior Applications
Exterior shiplap provides excellent weather resistance and durability. It's used for house siding, garage walls, garden sheds, and outdoor structures. Proper installation and finishing are crucial for long-term performance.
Commercial Uses
Shiplap is increasingly used in commercial spaces for retail environments, restaurants, and office buildings. It creates a warm, inviting atmosphere while providing practical wall protection.

Popular Applications:

  • Interior accent walls and feature walls
  • Exterior house siding and garage walls
  • Bathroom and kitchen wall treatments

Common Misconceptions and Correct Methods

  • Overlap Calculations
  • Material Estimation
  • Installation Techniques
Understanding the correct methods for shiplap calculations and installation can save time, money, and frustration. Here are common misconceptions and the correct approaches.
Myth: You Don't Need to Account for Overlap
Fact: Overlap is crucial for proper shiplap installation. The overlap creates the weather-resistant seal and affects how much material you actually need. Always include overlap in your calculations.
Myth: All Shiplap is the Same
Fact: Shiplap comes in various grades, materials, and profiles. Interior shiplap may not be suitable for exterior use, and different materials have different costs and installation requirements.
Myth: You Can Skip Wastage Calculations
Fact: Wastage is inevitable due to cuts, mistakes, and unusable pieces. Failing to account for wastage can leave you short on materials and delay your project.

Key Considerations:

  • Always include overlap in material calculations
  • Choose appropriate shiplap for your application
  • Account for wastage to avoid material shortages

Mathematical Derivation and Examples

  • Coverage Calculations
  • Material Optimization
  • Cost Analysis
The mathematical principles behind shiplap calculations involve understanding effective coverage, material optimization, and cost efficiency. These calculations ensure accurate material estimates and cost projections.
Effective Coverage Calculation
Effective coverage = Shiplap width - Overlap amount. This determines how much new wall area each board covers. For example, a 6-inch board with 0.5-inch overlap has 5.5 inches of effective coverage.
Material Requirements Formula
Total boards needed = (Wall height × Wall width) ÷ (Effective coverage × Shiplap length). Add wastage percentage to get final material requirements.
Cost Optimization
Consider board length optimization to minimize cuts and wastage. Longer boards may cost more per square foot but can reduce overall material costs by minimizing waste.

Calculation Examples:

  • 6" board with 0.5" overlap = 5.5" effective coverage
  • 8' × 12' wall needs approximately 18 boards
  • 10% wastage adds 2 additional boards for safety