How Much Does It Cost to Install Shiplap on Walls? (2024 Price Guide)

The cost to install shiplap on walls typically ranges from $300 to $8,000, with most homeowners spending around $2,500. This wide spread is driven by several variables, including the size of the area being covered, the material chosen, and whether you are installing it yourself or hiring professionals. Understanding these factors is essential for budgeting your project effectively and avoiding unexpected expenses.

Material Costs: The Biggest Variable

The material you select forms the foundation of your project's budget. Here is a breakdown of the most common options and their price points.

Wood Shiplap

Real wood is the premium choice for those seeking authentic texture and longevity. You are looking at costs between $30 and $60 per linear foot for materials. For a standard 10-foot wall, this translates to roughly $300 to $600 just for the boards. The total project cost will rise depending on the type of wood; pine is more affordable, while oak or reclaimed wood can significantly increase the price.

Vinyl Shiplap

Vinyl has become a popular alternative due to its affordability and low maintenance. Priced between $3 and $7 per linear foot, it is a budget-friendly option that mimics the look of wood without the high cost. For the same 10-foot wall, you would spend approximately $30 to $70, making it accessible for most renovation projects.

MDF and Composite Boards

Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and other composite materials sit in the middle of the pricing spectrum. These products usually cost between $1 and $3 per square foot. While they are cheaper upfront, they may not offer the same durability or high-end aesthetic as natural wood, and they can be susceptible to moisture damage.

Labor Costs: To DIY or to Hire

Labor is often the most significant portion of the budget if you are not tackling the installation yourself. Professional installers typically charge between $40 and $70 per hour. For a complex living room feature, you might see labor costs ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. Conversely, opting for a DIY approach eliminates the labor fee but requires you to invest in tools like saws, nail guns, and levelers, and to factor in the value of your own time.

Room Size and Wall Complexity

The dimensions of your space are the primary drivers of quantity cost. A full-wall installation in a bedroom might cost between $800 and $2,000, while a feature wall in a living room can range from $1,500 to $4,000. Pricing is usually calculated by the square footage, so measuring the height and width of your walls accurately is the first step in estimating your total project cost.

Calculating Square Footage

To get a rough estimate, measure the width and height of the wall in feet and multiply them together. For example, a wall that is 10 feet wide and 8 feet high equals 80 square feet. If the material costs $5 per square foot, you can expect the material cost alone to be around $400 before labor and additional supplies.

Additional Expenses to Consider

Beyond the shiplap itself, there are several ancillary costs that can add up. These necessary expenses often include supplies such as wood filler for gaps, high-quality caulking for sealing, and specialized wall adhesive. You should also budget for finishing touches; painting the boards before installation or staining them afterward requires additional time and materials.

Cost Comparison: Shiplap vs. Alternatives

When deciding on a wall treatment, comparing shiplap to other materials can provide perspective. While shiplap offers a distinct rustic charm, drywall paint is significantly cheaper, costing only a few hundred dollars for materials. Alternatively, wood paneling can sometimes be more expensive than high-end shiplap installations, depending on the complexity of the design and the quality of the wood used.

Maximizing Value and Saving Money

You do not have to sacrifice style to stay within budget. One of the most effective ways to save is to limit the shiplap to a single feature wall rather than covering every room. Sourcing materials during seasonal sales or looking for unfinished wood that you can stain yourself can also lead to substantial savings. Finally, ensuring your measurements are precise minimizes waste and the need to purchase extra boards.