What is Shiplap Siding

Shiplap siding is siding that is found on the outside walls of houses to give the appearance of a wood finish. The bottom edge is thicker than the top – as the name would suggest. The difference is usually an inch to two inches. When the siding is applied to the wall surface, the nails are usually hidden in the top thinner portion of the siding where they will not be seen.

What You’ll Need to Install Shiplap Siding

The following equipment is required to install your shiplap siding:
• Saw horses
• Circular saw
• Saber saw
• Silicone caulk
• Caulk gun
• Galvanized siding nails
• I6-oz. claw hammer
• Carpenter’s square
• Tape measure
• Chalk line

Preparation and Layout of the Shiplap Siding

Any siding that was previously placed on the walls needs to be removed before the new shiplap siding is installed – it cannot be placed on top of the old set. You will need to layer the wall with a paper of felt before applying the new one. Sanding down the new area is an option if it is dirty as well. Application of a flashing is the next step. This is to ensure that no water will leak into the siding after a heavy rain or wall washing.

Determine how you want the boards to look when you reach the top and need to provide an edge. A trim piece can be installed in this case. You will also need to decide the size of the vertical width that will be exposed when you set the sidings. This is a fairly simple procedure where you can simply stack boards on top to get a constant width that you will have to check using a tape measure. The result you obtain is called the “reveal” and the smaller it is, the more classic the appearance of the work you have done.

The shiplap siding is supposed to go around the entire house and all the boards that are placed need to meet at the same level at each corner. If they do not, you will be left with an uneven and poor appearance that will require modifications in order to repair the previous work. Level lines must be marked all around the house – preferably with a water level or spirit level if possible. You will need to take into account the fact that different sized shiplap siding will be used in accordance with where you have entrances and windows placed on the house.

Fastening the Shiplap Siding to the House

If the sheathing of the house is plywood, you will simply need to purchase the correct types of nails in order to set the siding properly. When you place the shiplap siding, be sure to make use of the manufacturer’s guidelines for the siding or it might be incorrectly and result in unnecessary expenses and stresses for yourself. This is not an easy task and if you are new to DIY, you are advised to seek assistance with the project.