Shiplap Calculator - Calculate Materials Needed
Free calculator to determine shiplap boards, materials, and costs needed for wall installation projects
Shiplap Calculator
Results
What is Shiplap?
Shiplap is a classic wooden cladding featuring overlapping joints that create a weather-resistant seal. Each board has a rabbet or lap joint that overlaps with the next board, providing both structural integrity and visual appeal.
This style is perfect for:
- Exterior siding - Traditional farmhouse and modern designs
- Interior accent walls - Creating texture and visual interest
- Bathroom walls - Moisture-resistant application
- Ceiling treatments - Adding architectural character
For related construction and woodworking projects, explore our Board and Batten Calculator for traditional wall treatments, Plywood Calculator for sheet material estimates, and Lumber Calculator for general timber requirements.
How Shiplap Calculator Works
The calculator uses precise formulas to determine shiplap material requirements:
Where:
- Effective Coverage = Board Width - Overlap Amount
- Waste Allowance = Calculated based on waste factor percentage
- Total Length = Number of boards × Board length
Key Concepts Explained
Overlap Amount
Portion of board that overlaps, typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch for weather sealing and aesthetics.
Effective Coverage
Actual width of each board after accounting for overlap - determines how many boards are needed.
Waste Factor
Extra material percentage (10-15%) for cutting waste, mistakes, and future repairs.
Board Dimensions
Width and thickness affect both visual appearance and material requirements for your project.
How to Use This Calculator
Measure Walls
Enter wall length and height in feet for accurate area calculation.
Set Board Specs
Input board width, thickness, and desired overlap amount.
Add Waste Factor
Specify percentage for cutting waste and future repairs.
Get Results
View boards needed, total length, and cost estimates.
Benefits of Using This Calculator
- • Precise Material Planning: Calculates exact board quantities including overlap and waste allowances.
- • Cost Budgeting: Provides accurate material cost estimates for better project planning.
- • Overlap Optimization: Accounts for proper overlap amounts to ensure weather resistance and aesthetics.
- • Waste Reduction: Minimizes material waste through precise calculations and realistic allowances.
Factors That Affect Your Results
1. Wall Irregularities
Doors, windows, and corners require additional calculations and may increase material needs.
2. Overlap Method
Different installation methods (horizontal vs. vertical) may affect overlap calculations.
3. Board Length
Standard board lengths may require additional cutting to fit specific wall dimensions.
4. Installation Method
Different fasteners and installation techniques may affect material requirements slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I calculate shiplap materials needed?
A: Calculate shiplap materials by measuring wall dimensions, determining board dimensions and overlap, then using our calculator to determine the number of boards, linear footage, and total cost including waste allowance.
Q: What is the standard overlap for shiplap?
A: Standard shiplap overlap is typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch, providing weather protection and hiding joints. The overlap affects effective coverage and material requirements.
Q: How much extra shiplap should I buy?
A: Add 10-15% extra material for waste, cutting errors, and future repairs. Our calculator includes a waste factor option to automatically account for this.
Q: What tools do I need for shiplap installation?
A: Essential tools include measuring tape, level, circular saw or miter saw, nail gun or hammer, router for profile cuts, and safety equipment like gloves and eye protection.