How to Paint Shiplap

Unless you have been like a caveman for so long, then you already have a good idea of the shiplap trend in home design that's seen its popularity grow in a huge way. Everybody is incorporating this style of wall in their home remodels and upgrades.

Why? Because it's beautiful, affordable, and it's a DIY project that anyone, even with a bit of craftiness, is able to tackle.

It's likely that you've seen the shiplap look on television programs, and now you're eager to implement it at home.

What Is The Type of Paint You Should Use for Shiplap

Before beginning painting, you must know which kind of paint would be ideal for the shiplap style wall. To get the best results from shiplap wood, choose a water-based primer and an all-in-one paint. This can save you so much time and money as you'll be only using one product, not primer and paint as two. Furthermore, an all-in-one paint product also provides better coverage, meaning that fewer coats of paint will be required.

It is also crucial to determine the best paint sheen to match the style you've got set in your mind. However, make sure to think about functionality as well. Flat (also called matte) sheens look great on shiplap; it could be difficult to remove, though. Do you have more questions regarding the right sheen? This blog about paint sheens will assist!

If the shiplap is located in an area that is heavily used, like the dining room or kitchen, the semi-gloss sheen would be easier to clean. You can also opt for an in-between shine like eggshell or satin. These can give an appearance that is more matte and is still relatively easy to clean.

Tips for Painting Shiplap

Here are some suggestions to help you:

If you plan on installing a new shiplap, you better paint it before installing it. It's much simpler to paint the edge of the shiplap before the shiplap is put up on the walls.

When the wood is constructed out of engineered lumber (MDF, also known as medium density fiberboard) instead of wood, you can seal it using an oil-based primer prior to applying a water-based paint with a Urethane enamel for a finish. Avoid using Latex Wall Paint. This will stop this water-based painting from causing damage to the MDF, which is water-sensitive. The oil-based primer gives the shiplap boards extra protection against humidity and water.

Do not forget to fill any gaps or nail holes in the shiplap using a spackle or caulk before painting. If you had already painted the shiplap prior to installation, make sure you fill in any gaps once the shiplap is set in place, and then paint the areas you've painted using paint.

If the shiplap is already put up, paint it as a wall (with an roller and cutting in using the help of a brush), making sure to take the time to paint the spaces and grooves using a tiny brush.

How to Paint Shiplap in Seven Steps

The floor should be covered, and the surrounding area, too, to shield it from drips and paint splatters.

Sand down the shiplap panels with sandpaper or using a palm sander. Wipe away any sawdust that remains.

When you're applying a different primer, apply it prior to the paint and let it dry completely. This isn't required when you're using an all-in-one primer and paint.

Apply the initial coat of paint with the help of a roller or paintbrush before putting your boards onto the walls, if possible. If you're wondering how to paint the grooves of shiplap, you'll see that using a tiny paintbrush can help you access all the nooks and crevices that are often difficult to reach.

After installing the shiplap or if they've already been put in, remove the nails, then fill with paint-able caulk or spackle.

After the spackle or caulk is dry, rub the surface gently.

Brush or roll on the final coat of paint with the tiny paintbrush, and make sure that the nail grooves and holes are fully covered.