How Much Is Shiplap Per Square Foot

How Much is Shiplap Per Square Foot? A Comprehensive Guide to Cost and Installation

Shiplap, with its charming rustic appeal, has become a hugely popular choice for interior and exterior wall cladding. Its clean lines and versatile nature make it suitable for a variety of design styles, from farmhouse chic to modern minimalism. But before you dive into transforming your home with this beautiful material, a crucial question arises: how much is shiplap per square foot? The answer, unfortunately, isn't a simple number. The cost of shiplap varies significantly depending on several key factors. This comprehensive guide will delve into these factors, helping you accurately estimate the cost of your shiplap project and make informed decisions.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Shiplap Per Square Foot

Several factors contribute to the fluctuating price of shiplap per square foot. Understanding these will give you a much clearer picture of what to expect:

1. Material Type:

• Wood Type: The type of wood significantly impacts the price. Popular choices include pine, cedar, and reclaimed wood. Pine is generally the most affordable, while cedar offers greater durability and weather resistance, commanding a higher price. Reclaimed wood, sourced from demolished structures, is often the most expensive due to its scarcity, unique character, and sustainable nature. Expect variations within wood types as well; knotty pine will be cheaper than clear pine.

• Grade: Wood is graded based on its quality, with higher grades featuring fewer knots, imperfections, and consistent color. Higher-grade shiplap typically costs more due to its superior aesthetic appeal and fewer defects.

• Thickness: Shiplap comes in various thicknesses, typically ranging from ½ inch to 1 inch. Thicker shiplap is more durable and structurally sound but comes at a higher cost.

2. Shiplap Style:

• Beveled vs. Standard: Beveled shiplap, characterized by its slightly angled edges, creates a more pronounced shadow line and adds visual depth. This style is often slightly more expensive than standard shiplap with less defined edges.

• Pre-finished vs. Unfinished: Pre-finished shiplap, already painted or stained, eliminates the need for additional finishing work, saving time and potentially labor costs. However, it's usually more expensive upfront than unfinished shiplap, which requires painting or staining after installation.

• Tongue and Groove vs. Other Styles: The classic tongue and groove design is prevalent, offering seamless joining and clean lines. Other styles, such as shiplap with a shiplap reveal, might have slight pricing differences.

3. Sourcing and Retail Channels:

• Big Box Stores vs. Lumber Yards: Purchasing shiplap from large retail stores often results in lower prices per square foot compared to specialized lumber yards or custom suppliers. However, lumber yards might offer a wider selection of wood types, grades, and styles.

• Online Retailers: Online retailers can provide competitive pricing but require careful consideration of shipping costs, which can be substantial for bulky materials like shiplap. You also need to factor in potential damages during shipping.

• Local Suppliers: Supporting local businesses often leads to a more personal experience and potentially competitive pricing, depending on your location and the supplier.

4. Installation Costs:

• DIY vs. Professional Installation: While DIY installation can save significantly on labor costs, it requires time, skills, and the right tools. Professional installation will be more expensive per square foot but offers expertise and ensures a quality finish. Factor in additional costs like permitting if required.

• Project Complexity: The complexity of the project, such as the presence of corners, curves, or intricate designs, impacts the installation time and thus the overall cost. More complex projects will naturally cost more.

Estimating the Cost of Shiplap: A Breakdown

Let's break down the cost estimation process:

1. Calculate the Square Footage: Accurately measure the area you intend to cover with shiplap. Remember to account for any windows, doors, or other openings. Overestimate slightly to account for waste and cuts.

2. Determine Material Costs: Based on the factors discussed above (wood type, grade, style, and sourcing), research prices from different suppliers. Get multiple quotes to compare. Prices usually range from $2 to $20 per square foot for the material itself, but it can be higher for exotic wood species or reclaimed materials.

3. Factor in Installation Costs (if not DIY): If you're hiring professionals, obtain multiple quotes. The cost of installation can range significantly depending on factors such as location, project complexity, and the installer's experience. A reasonable estimate for professional installation might range from $3 to $8 per square foot, or more depending on specifics.

4. Add Additional Costs: Don't forget to include costs for:

• Fasteners: Nails or screws.
• Primer and Paint/Stain (if not pre-finished): Consider the number of coats needed.
• Caulk: For sealing gaps and seams.
• Tools (if DIY): A saw, nail gun, measuring tape, level, etc.
• Waste removal: Disposal of excess materials and packaging.

5. Total Cost Estimation: Sum up all the costs (material, installation, additional expenses) to arrive at a final estimated cost for your project.

Example Cost Scenarios:

To illustrate, let's consider a few example scenarios:

Scenario 1: Budget-Friendly Pine Shiplap (DIY Installation):

• Area: 100 square feet
• Material Cost (Pine, unfinished): $3 per square foot = $300
• Installation Cost (DIY): $0
• Additional Costs (Fasteners, Paint, etc.): $100
• Total Estimated Cost: $400

Scenario 2: Mid-Range Cedar Shiplap (Professional Installation):

• Area: 200 square feet
• Material Cost (Cedar, pre-finished): $8 per square foot = $1600
• Installation Cost (Professional): $5 per square foot = $1000
• Additional Costs (Fasteners, Caulk): $50
• Total Estimated Cost: $2650

Scenario 3: High-End Reclaimed Wood Shiplap (Professional Installation):

• Area: 50 square feet (accent wall)
• Material Cost (Reclaimed Wood, unfinished): $20 per square foot = $1000
• Installation Cost (Professional, potentially higher due to handling reclaimed wood): $8 per square foot = $400
• Additional Costs (Fasteners, Stain, etc.): $150
• Total Estimated Cost: $1550

These are merely examples, and the actual costs can vary substantially based on your specific project requirements.

Tips for Saving Money on Shiplap:

• Shop Around: Compare prices from multiple suppliers before making a purchase.
• Consider Unfinished Shiplap: Finishing the shiplap yourself can save you a considerable amount of money.
• Plan Your Project Carefully: Accurate measurements and planning minimize waste and reduce material costs.
• DIY Installation (if possible): If you're comfortable with DIY projects, installing the shiplap yourself is a significant cost saver.
• Buy in Bulk (if applicable): Larger quantities sometimes come with discounts.
• Check for Sales and Discounts: Keep an eye out for sales and promotional offers from your chosen supplier.
• Prioritize Functionality: Consider prioritizing the areas where shiplap will have the most impact, rather than covering every wall.

Conclusion:

The cost of shiplap per square foot is a variable expense, influenced by numerous factors. By carefully considering these factors – material type, style, sourcing, and installation – and following the steps outlined above for cost estimation, you can create a realistic budget for your shiplap project. Remember to obtain multiple quotes for both materials and installation to ensure you're getting the best value for your money. With proper planning and careful consideration, you can achieve the beautiful shiplap aesthetic you desire without breaking the bank.