Is Shiplap Cheaper Than Drywall?

Carla Louisse
Nov 15, 2022
3 min read

Both shiplap and drywall are excellent choices for interior walls; the one you choose should be based on your preferences and budget. Shiplap may be quite a bit more expensive than drywall, depending on the wood used. Distinct types of wood, such as pine, cedar, or hardwood, are used to make shiplap, and each has different pricing.

What is Shiplap?

Shiplap is comparable to tongue and groove siding because of the notches or rabbets on its edges. When fitted vertically, the rabbets automatically space themselves for a snug, uniform fit. They will be wholly waterproofed in this manner. Because of its sleek design, you won't be able to tell the difference between shiplap planks and wood.

Shiplap vs. Drywall

If you need to cover a wall or ceiling, indoors or out, a shiplap board is your best option. The look of natural wood siding on a home is timeless, comforting, and stunning. You can go from one space to another without any disruption. It has several practical applications around the house, including in the kitchen, bathroom, living room, and bedroom.

A shiplap wall may dry quickly, so homeowners don't have to worry about unsightly stains or dangerous fungus for many years. In contrast, drywall is quickly damaged by dings and scratches. The wallboard may be entirely soaked through by even a thin film of water that touches it. Simply place on the groove, straighten, and nail into place to complete the installation.

Once a shiplap has been built, it is simple to paint. Also, rapidly, there is no need to wait for the mud and sanding to dry before priming and painting. However, drywall installation may generate substantial dust in your home. You may utilize specialized machinery to complete your drywall with little mess.

Does Shiplap Cost More Than Drywall?

It's essential to consider the materials used when comparing the prices of shiplap and sheetrock. In some instances, the extra cost of shiplap over drywall may be justified. In most cases, the price of drywall will be far lower than the price of shiplap.

Inexpensive Way of Shiplap Installation?

In a variety of ways, shiplap may help you save money. Hardwood has established itself as the material of choice for its affordability and widespread availability. Materials may be gathered from a more significant number of broad-leafed trees. Hardwood flooring may range in price from $0.80 to $4.00 per square foot.

Prices for the pine of comparable quality run approximately $4.50 to $7.00 per square foot, while those for cedar of average grade go between $2.50 and $5.00 per square foot. Shiplap may be used to cover the whole length and height of the walls in residences with an interior size of 1,500 to 3,000 square feet, or it can be installed in sections. Cedar is better than pine in terms of durability and insulation and gives buildings a more attractive appearance.

Hiring a contractor is your best bet if you lack the necessary building expertise. In some instances, this is advantageous since the materials they use are included in the package and sold at a reduced price. For a do-it-yourself job, you should expect to spend between $500 and $1,400 on a 200-square-foot room. Compared to the possible $1 000–$2 000 cost of hiring a professional to decorate the same area, this is a steal.

Among today's crop of farmhouse remodelers, shiplap has become a hot trend. It may be hung from the ceiling or used as a wall's decorative accent. There is a noticeable space between the boards because they fit together. It's an excellent material for use on the outside of the house as well as for barns, sheds, and even the kid's playhouse if it has to withstand the weather.

Because you may use just about any kind of wood to create shiplap planks, its final look will please a wide variety of people. There are two options: either people can see the lines of separation that occur as they fit together, or the lines may be covered. Given that it is already in modular form, the only adjustments needed to make it work in a given setting are those made by cutting the material to size. The only cleanup after installing shiplap is putting away the tools.

Shiplap may be more costly than drywall, depending on the wood you choose and the square footage you need to cover. Drywall is less expensive per square foot, but the time and effort required to finish and hang it may add up quickly. If you're looking to save money, consider using shiplap on only one wall or in a smaller area instead of the entire home.