Thinking about adding a shiplap wall to your home? A shiplap calculator can make the job a lot easier.

This tool helps you figure out how many boards you will need, saving you time and money. In this article, we will guide you through using a shiplap calculator for your next DIY project.

Key Takeaways

• A shiplap calculator helps you know how many boards you will need for your project.
• Measuring your space accurately is the first step in using a shiplap calculator.
• Always factor in some extra boards for mistakes and wastage.
• Choose the right type of shiplap material for your needs and budget.
• Proper preparation and planning are key to a successful DIY shiplap project.

Understanding the Basics of a Shiplap Calculator

What is a Shiplap Calculator?

A shiplap calculator is a handy tool that helps you figure out how many shiplap boards you need for your project.

By entering the dimensions of your wall and the size of the shiplap boards, the calculator does the math for you. It saves your time and reduces the risk of mistakes.

Why Use a Shiplap Calculator?

Using a shiplap calculator can make your DIY project much easier. It ensures you buy the right amount of materials, which can save you money.

Plus, it helps you avoid the hassle of running out of boards in the middle of your project.

Key Features to Look For

When choosing a shiplap calculator, look for these key features:

• Ease of Use: The calculator should be simple to use, even for beginners.
• Accuracy: It should provide precise measurements to help you plan your project.
• Flexibility: A good calculator will let you input different sizes of shiplap boards and account for wastage.

Using a shiplap calculator can turn a complicated task into a straightforward one, making your DIY project more enjoyable.

Measuring Your Space for Shiplap Installation

Accurate measurements are crucial for a successful shiplap installation. Precisely measuring your area before purchasing and installing the shiplap ensures you will have the right amount of boards without wasting money.

Tools Needed for Accurate Measurements

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools to measure your space accurately. You will need:

• Tape measure
• Pencil and paper
• Level
• Calculator

Step-by-Step Measuring Guide

1. Measure the length and height of the wall where you plan to install the shiplap.
2. Write down these measurements.
3. Use a level to ensure your measurements are straight and accurate.
4. Calculate the total square footage by multiplying the length by the height.

Pro-tip: If you are planning to install a shiplap ceiling yourself (and have a little wiggle room in your budget), buy a few extra boards. Mistakes happen, and having a backup can save time.

Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid

• Not using a level, which can lead to inaccurate measurements.
• Forgetting to account for windows, doors, and other obstacles.
• Rounding measurements are too early in the process.

By getting accurate measurements, you can determine how many shiplap boards you will need for your project.

Using the wall measurements and the size of the shiplap planks you will be using, you can then calculate how many boards you will need overall.

Calculating the Number of Shiplap Boards Needed

To figure out how many shiplap boards we need, we start with the wall measurements. We measure the length and height of each wall where we want to install shiplap. Then, we multiply these numbers to get the total square footage of the wall.

Next, we need to determine the area of one shiplap board. For example, if the shiplap boards are 7 inches by 16 inches, we multiply these dimensions and then divide by 144 to convert them to square feet. It gives us the area of one board.

To find out the total number of shiplap boards needed, we divide the total wall area by the area of one shiplap board. It’s important to round up to ensure we have enough boards.

We also need to factor in wastage. It’s a good idea to add about 10% extra to our total to account for mistakes or cuts. This way, we won’t run out of materials in the middle of our project.

Finally, we should always round up our calculations to make sure we have enough boards. It’s better to have a few extras than to come up short.

Choosing the Right Shiplap Material

When it comes to shiplap materials, there are several options to consider. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your project needs and aesthetic preferences.

Using the Shiplap Calculator for Your Project

Inputting Your Measurements

First, gather your wall measurements. You will need the total square footage of the wall and the dimensions of the shiplap boards.

Enter these values into the calculator. This step ensures you avoid costly mistakes and maximize your living space’s potential.

Interpreting the Results

Once you’ve inputted your measurements, the calculator will provide the number of shiplap boards needed.

It will also account for any wastage, giving you a more accurate estimate. This helps you plan and budget for your project.

Making Adjustments Based on Calculator Output

If the calculator’s results seem off, double-check your measurements. Sometimes, small errors can lead to big discrepancies.

Adjust your inputs and recalculate to ensure you have the right amount of materials. This way, you can avoid running out of boards mid-project.

Preparing for Shiplap Installation

Before we start installing the shiplap, we need to get the walls ready. This means taking off any old wall treatments, filling in nail holes, and sanding the wall until it’s smooth.

If your walls are already bare, you can skip this part. But if not, it’s important to make sure the walls are ready for the shiplap boards.

Prepping Your Walls

First, we need to prepare the wall for the shiplap planks. This involves removing any existing wall treatments, filling in any nail holes or rough edges, and sanding the wall smooth.

If your walls are already blank, you can skip this step. But if you are replacing any existing wall treatments, you will want to make sure the walls are ready to attach to the shiplap planks.

Cutting the Shiplap Boards

Next, we need to cut the shiplap boards to the right size. Measure the walls that you want to add shiplap to to get an overall length and width of the space.

You can determine how many shiplap boards you will need for your project by getting accurate measurements.

Using the wall measurements and the size of the shiplap planks you will be using, you can then calculate how many boards you will need overall.

Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you get started on your shiplap wall, you will need to gather a few supplies. Here’s what you will need:

• Plywood ½” thick (furniture grade) – ripped into 5″ wide strips
• 1×2 Pine Boards
• Wood Glue
• Wood Putty
• Caulk
• Primer
• Paint (We Used White Semi-Gloss Trim Paint)

Shiplap is pretty easy to install as long as you plan your project out well and have the right tools on hand. There are many different ways to get the shiplap look, but my preference is using real shiplap which means boards manufactured to interlock/overlap in a way that leaves a small, even gap between them.

Tips for a Successful DIY Shiplap Project

Planning Your Layout

Before starting, it’s crucial to have a clear plan. Measure your walls accurately and decide on the layout.

This will help you avoid mistakes and ensure a smooth installation process. Sketching out your design can also be very helpful.

Ensuring Even Spacing

To achieve that classic shiplap look, even spacing between boards is essential. Use spacers to maintain consistent gaps.

This not only looks good but also helps in the long run by allowing the wood to expand and contract naturally.

Handling Corners and Edges

Corners and edges can be tricky. Take your time to measure and cut the boards precisely. For inside corners, you might need to use a sealant calculator tool to ensure a tight fit.

For outside corners, consider using trim pieces to cover any gaps and give a polished look.

Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to a successful DIY shiplap project. Take your time and enjoy the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Using a shiplap calculator can make your DIY project much easier and more accurate. By taking the time to measure your walls and calculate the number of boards you need, you can avoid wasting materials and money.

Whether you are using a real shiplap or a faux version made from plywood, the key is in the preparation.

With the right tools and a solid plan, you will be able to create a beautiful shiplap wall that adds charm and character to your space.