Shiplap and nickel gap are both types of wall paneling, and they are both commonly used to create a unique and rustic look. The main difference between them is the look and the installation process.
Shiplap has a distinct look that can usually be recognized by the grooves along the edge of each board. The boards are fitted together so that the edges overlap, creating a strong fit and a seamless wall appearance.
Shiplap boards are usually 1×8”, although other sizes are available. Installing shiplap requires cutting the boards to size and then nailing them in place.
Nickel gap, also known as rabbeted shiplap, is similar in that it fits together by overlapping the edges. The main difference is that the boards create a bowed look due to the deeper cut in between each board’s edge.
This creates a unique and attractive pattern. The boards used in a nickel gap installation are usually ¾” thick, and normally have a square edge cut instead of a beveled one. Installing nickel gap is much easier than shiplap, as it can be nailed or glued in place with no cutting required.
What is nickel gap used for?
Nickel gap is a popular wall cladding system that combines the look of shiplap with the strength and durability of metal. It involves a metal, typically galvanized steel, being punched with a series of holes, creating a gap between each sheet of steel.
This gap is where the “nickel” comes from.
Nickel gap is perfect for exterior use. It provides an added layer of protection from moisture and pests, allowing homeowners to enjoy the look they want while simultaneously protecting the structure of the building.
The metal material is highly durable and will hold up against years of exposure to the elements.
Due to the appealing nature of nickel gap, it is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners looking to add a distinct design element to the home. It is often used to bring a modern look to the exterior of the building, as well as to create texture and texture variation in a room.
Because the design is customizable, it can easily be used to create a look that complements any other elements and styles within the house.
Not only is nickel gap beautiful and customizable; it’s also easy and relatively inexpensive to install. This makes it a great option for adding unique style to any home and protecting it from the elements.
How do you do a nickel gap in shiplap?
The “nickel gap” look is a popular style of shiplap due to its chic and sleek aesthetic. To achieve this look, simply leave a small gap between each plank of shiplap, approximately the size of a nickel.
This style helps to create the rustic farmhouse style look, but can be more time consuming to install than traditional shiplap.
To begin, choose the type of shiplap you would like to use in your home. Commonly used types of shiplap include engineered wood, real wood, metal, or vinyl. You should also measure your walls to determine how many planks you will need and how far apart the gaps should be.
When installing the shiplap, make sure to start with a level base. This will ensure that the gaps between each plank come out even. When attaching the planks, use finishing nails to secure them firmly in place.
Make sure to leave the nickel gap between each wood plank. This can be achieved using either a scrap of wood equal to the size of a nickel, or by measuring the gap with a measuring tape and marking the spot next to each board.
Finally, you can add a few finishing touches such as caulk to further create the nickel gap look. Use a small amount of caulk, such as a step-down caulk, around the planks to create a more seamless joint.
This can help to create a more finished look and help prevent moisture damage.
With a few simple steps, you can create the popular nickel gap shiplap look and enjoy the rustic charm it brings to any room.
What is better than shiplap?
Many people are drawn to the “shiplap” look that has taken over the world of interior design in recent years. As popular as this trend has become, there are a number of materials that could be considered an even better option than shiplap.
A popular alternative to shiplap is tongue and groove paneling. Although this material also gives a clean, uniform look, it is far superior to shiplap because it is less prone to cupping, buckling, and water damage, making it partcularly suited for high-moiture areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Unlike shiplap, it is also much easier to install, as the edges nest neatly together for a stronger, more stable wall.
Wood paneling is also considered to be an excellent alternative to shiplap. The advantage to using this material is its elegant, natural appearance and range of color options. It is also far more durable than shiplap, meaning it is more resistant to cracks, warping, and fading.
Not to mention, installation is far easier as wood panels can be easily cut to fit and there is no need for trim or finishing.
Finally, brick and stone paneling are both considered to be great alternatives to shiplap. Brick is particularly attractive for its classic, timeless look and comes in a variety of styles and colors.
Stone paneling is well-suited for those seeking a traditional, rustic aesthetic and lends a unique texture to walls and other surfaces. Both brick and stone are extremely durable and require less maintenance than shiplap, making them an ideal long-term solution.
What is the gap between shiplap boards?
The spacing gap between shiplap boards typically varies between 1/8 inch up to 3/8 inch, depending on the size of the boards and the project they are being used for. Installers use this gap to allow for movement, as well as to accommodate any type of paints, primers, sealers or varnishes that may be applied to the boards.
Additionally, if certain types of insulation are used behind the boards, this gap allows for air circulation, helping the boards to remain cool during warmer weather. Too large a gap or too small a gap can create problems and should be carefully considered when determining the gap size between shiplap boards.
What should I put behind shiplap?
When installing shiplap, there are a few options for what to put behind it. Depending on the project, different materials can offer different benefits.
For an interior application, drywall or another type of interior wall covering such as paneling or beadboard, can be used. Drywall offers a smooth, uniform finish, is lightweight and easy to install, and it also helps reduce sound transmission.
Plywood, OSB, or louvered panels are also another option and are often used for garages or sheds to reduce sound and moisture.
For exterior applications, plywood, OSB, or structural sheathing can be used. Structural sheathing is great because it is lightweight, provides a smooth, even background, and helps protect against moisture, wind, and pests.
Pressure-treated plywood or supplemental blocking may also be used in order to provide proper support for heavy items.
When installing behind shiplap, it is important to use the appropriate materials for the application, create a level backing surface, and make sure to install nails in the studs behind the sheathing to provide proper support to the shiplap.
Additionally, it is important to make sure to have proper venting in order to avoid moisture build-up and possible mold growth.
Should shiplap be nailed or screwed?
When it comes to installing shiplap, the best practice is to use a combination of nails and screws. Firstly, use nails to attach the shiplap boards to the wall or ceiling. Spacing the nails 8” to 12” apart is usually ideal.
Once the shiplap has been properly attached, you should then use screws. This to add additional stability and strength. When installing these screws, you should start at the top of the shiplap boards and then continue down the wall.
This will help ensure the boards stay securely attached. Finish the installation off by using wood putty to fill any gaps between boards and make the shiplap look more polished.
Do you start shiplap at the top or bottom?
The rule of thumb when installing shiplap is to start at the bottom and work your way up. When beginning the installation process, you should measure out the area to determine how many pieces of wood you’ll need, then cut the wood to size.
Next, use a level to mark a straight line along the bottom of the wall. Then, you’ll start nailing the pieces of shiplap from the bottom up, making sure to leave a small gap (usually about 1/8 of an inch) between each piece for expansion.
Each piece should be nailed at the top and bottom of each board, ensuring the boards are secure and straight. Once all the pieces have been installed, use caulk to fill any gaps between the seams before painting.
Where do you nail nickel gap?
Nickel gap is a type of wall paneling that has become very popular in recent years. It is primarily used on walls to add texture, visual interest, and an overall modern aesthetic. Nickel gap can be used wherever a paneling material is needed, such as on a feature wall, an accent wall, or to cover up unsightly bare walls.
When nailing nickel gap, it is important to use appropriate nails that are specifically made for use with the material. Nails should be long enough to ensure a strong hold and not just slightly penetrate the wall paneling.
When nailing around the edges of the paneling, a brad-point nail should be used. Commonly, a 1½-inch helical thread-cutting screw should be used for attaching any type of paneling around windows, doors, or other unique architectural features.
Additionally, a nail gun can be helpful when it comes to nailing nickel gap if you have a large area to cover.
What can I use as spacers for shiplap?
Shiplap is a great way to add an accent wall to any room, offering a unique and distinctive look. To ensure the best finished look, it is important to use the right spacers when installing a shiplap wall.
When used properly, spacers can provide enough space between each board to prevent water damage and ensure the boards are level.
The most common spacer used is foam board insulation. This type of insulation is known for its high R-value, which can help retain heat in the winter and keep a room cool in the summer. Foam board insulation comes in both rigid and flexible varieties, which makes it easy to cut and fit your wall’s needs.
With the flexible kind, you can secure the boards together with a thin bead of caulk or construction adhesive for added stability.
Wood blocks or strips of wood are another popular choice for shiplap walls. They come in a variety of thicknesses and can be coloured to match the boards for an even more appealing look. Wood blocks or strips are often secured with nails or wood glue.
Shims are also a good option for shiplap walls. These thin pieces of wood or plastic can be easily trimmed to fit in between the boards without gaps. With wooden shims, you can use construction adhesive to secure them in place.
Plastic shims, on the other hand, require a gluing compound to be applied beforehand.
Finally, another popular spacer is felt. Felt comes in a variety of thicknesses and is often used as a spacer between the boards to provide insulation and hold the boards in place. Felt is often attached using construction adhesive or nails.
No matter which type of spacer you choose to use, it is important to make sure they are not too thick or wide. If they are too thick or wide, your shiplap wall could look uneven or bumpy. Proper installation will give you the best results, so be sure to measure accurately and use the correct supplies.
Is nickel gap cheaper than shiplap?
The cost of nickel gap and shiplap can vary significantly depending on the size of the project and material type. In general, nickel gap is less expensive than shiplap because it only comprises of a single piece of wood with a rabbet cut at each end.
Shiplap, on the other hand, has two or more slats that overlap. This overlapping of pieces causes shiplap to have a longer installation time and therefore, higher costs. Additionally, if you use colored or stained boards with shiplap, you can incur additional costs for paints or stains.
Furthermore, the costs for nickel gap can be offset if the wood is reused, making it even more cost effective. In conclusion, nickel gap is generally cheaper than shiplap due to the fewer materials and labor required for installation.
Should I nail or glue shiplap?
When deciding if you should nail or glue shiplap, the answer depends on the space and your desired outcome. Typically, nailing is recommended for greater stability and durability. Glue is also an option, however, it will make the wall less sturdy and durable over time.
If you’re looking for a stronger hold, nailing is the best option.
Nail lengths should depend on the material you are using. When using traditional lumber, a 1-1/2 inch to 2 inch long nail is the optimal size to ensure the shiplap has enough hold. For thinner materials such as plywood, a 1-1/4 inch to 1-3/4 inch nail should be used.
With thinner materials, the weight of the material should be considered as well to ensure the nail is long enough.
Glue can also be used to hold shiplap in place. For this method, it’s important to match the glue to the wood material. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for specifics; for example, some glues only bond harder woods like oak or maple.
Glue is best to use in areas where there is less strain and weight on the walls such as the inside of closets or cabinets.
To sum it up, nailing is recommended for shiplap for improved stability and durability, whereas glue is best for less strain. However, when in doubt, check the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance.
Does shiplap need expansion gap?
Yes, while shiplap does not need expansion gaps when it is installed on ceilings, it is absolutely necessary when installed on walls. This is due to the fact that while ceilings usually do not experience any sort of temperature or humidity changes, walls typically do; these changes can cause the shiplap planks to expand or contract, which can cause buckling, swelling, and warping.
An expansion gap provides enough space for the plank to expand or contract without compromising the integrity of the wall or the plank. It also allows for a proper surface for caulking and creates a clean finished look between adjacent planks.
Typically, an expansion gap of 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch is recommended.
Can you apply shiplap directly to studs?
Yes, you can apply shiplap directly to studs. When done correctly, it’s a simple and straightforward installation process, but there are a few key steps to keep in mind. When attaching shiplap directly to studs, make sure that the studs are completely flat and free of obstructions.
Also, make sure that the wall is cleaned and any blemishes or defects are filled in prior to application. As far as nails, make sure that you’re using galvanized, deformed, or stainless steel nails with a minimum 8d size.
They should also be driven flush into the wall. When it comes to spacing, allow for a one-eighth-inch expansion joint on each side. Finally, use a level to make sure the shiplap installation is level and then secure it in place with a brad nailer or pin nailer.
Once you’ve completed all of the steps, you’ll be ready to cover your walls with beautiful shiplap.
Why is it called nickel gap?
The “nickel gap” is a name for a certain paneling style popular in log cabins and homes. It is called the nickel gap because of the spacing between each board that resembles the width of a nickel. This design is used to create a texture that’s similar to traditional, one-inch paneling.
The nickel gap paneling is created by overlapping each board on top of the other, leaving a smaller gap between each piece. This allows for a unique design and texture, while utilizing less wood than conventional one-inch paneling.
The resulting look is like a wider, woodier version of classic beadboard. The panels are often used to accent walls in log cabins, and can be painted or stained. The nickel gap also creates a great contrast if paired with a smooth finish like burnished marble.
The panels are easy to install and can help to add character and warmth to any room.