What Is Shiplap?
This L-shaped joinery is called a rabbet.
Shiplap can be used for many things, but it’s often found on interior and exterior walls.
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Color-match it to your walls to increase its subtlety or choose a contrasting shade to make a bigger statement.
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What Is Tongue and Groove?
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This pop in of joint is called a dado.
What’s the Difference Between Shiplap and Tongue and Groove?
Beyond this, there are differences in cost, durability, appearance, and more.
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Durability
Tongue and groove boards are significantly more durable than shiplap once installed.
This is due to the nature of the joint, which creates a stronger hold than that of shiplap.
When glued together, tongue and groove boards feature three bonding surfaces, while shiplap just has one.
Installation
Shiplap is considerably easier to install than tongue and groove.
With tongue and groove, you must slide each board’s tongue into the adjacent board’s groove.
This often takes a bit of force, which can add significant time and effort to an installation.
This is even more labor-intensive if the boards are rough-sawn.
Which One Should You Choose?
So, is tongue and groove or shiplap a better choice?
Both options present many pros and cons, so your decision should be guided by your specific project.
If you want something inexpensive and easy to install, shiplap is right for you.
If you’re looking to complement a farmhouse or rustic home, shiplap will fit right in.
If you’re after a modern, sleek aesthetic, tongue and groove is just the thing.
Determining if shiplap or tongue and groove is better depends on the needs of your project.
Additionally, shiplap is easier to install, which results in lower labor costs when you hire professional installation.
There’s no doubt that shiplap has been having a design moment for several years now.
While installing shiplap may not directly increase the value of your home, it can increase its marketability.
Bennett, P. (n.d.-b).
Shiplap vs. Tongue and Groove: Which Is Best for Your Project?
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Retrieved July 2, 2024, from Home Improvement Tips & Advice from HomeAdvisor website: https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/cheap-ways-to-increase-home-value/