Is Shiplap More Expensive than Drywall?

First of all, Shiplap can be more expensive than drywall. It all depends on the materials used. Some shiplap materials used are also cheaper than drywall.

While drywall is considerably less costly than some shiplap materials, there may be many reasons why you should consider the later. While renovating your home, you might want to consider more than just cost to ensure you’re getting the right walls for your home. 

(Before we get into the rest of this article I just want to mention that one of my favorite websites that has a lot of great tips on home styles and trends is HomeandGardens.com. If you are doing a DIY update or redesign, or just looking for great ideas, check them out!)

Why is a Shiplap More Expensive?

To be able to know why shiplap may be more expensive, you need to understand how shiplap works. Shiplap is made when panels are made to overlap locking together. The cost of one board is somewhere between 0.95$ to 4$ which is considerably expensive. To complete shiplap on one wall may take a lot of panels thus you can end up spending more than just buying some gypsum board.

Why consider Shiplap Walls?

In comparison to many other materials for walls in the market, shiplap is a cheap alternative. If you are already comparing it to drywall, then it means that this is your first option. Shiplap is popular in old homes. However, the recent years have seen more homeowners start using it for their interiors. Many people are considering the walls as they have a clean finish than that of a drywall. The Shiplap walls have beautiful patterns that add to the décor of your home.

Why are Some Shiplap Materials cheaper than Drywall?

Many shiplap boards are made with softwood. The wood used is usually from readily available wood such as pine, cedar and oak. Many shiplap walls have a clean, crisp look created by the overlapping panels of the word. The boards are 1 inch thick, and they are 3 to 10 inches wide. An entire wall can cost about $160, and you can easily install it on your own. The cost is calculated without any other charges such as labor. Shiplap can be cheap if you go for cheaper wood and choose to install it on your own.
What are the Advantages of Using Shiplap?

Shiplap is an excellent finish for your home. The finish is beautiful. As we stated, the panels are made with beautiful wood such as pine and oak. The shiplap interiors are breathtaking. Unlike traditionally when people choose shiplap for exteriors, shiplap has gained its space in the interiors. You can use it for excellent living room walls, bedrooms, bathrooms and even for backsplashes. Shiplap is also versatile. The walls are always breathtaking as the great wood finish creates a rustic feel to your home. Wooden homes are taking over. Floors and now walls are becoming more of a norm in the real estate market. You can paint and stain shiplap which is not the case with drywall.

Why is Most Shiplap more Expensive than Drywall?

The cost of installation brings all the difference here. Shiplap takes time to install unlike drywall. Shiplap installation calls for increased labor costs. Shiplap materials are also comparatively expensive when you pick a particular type of wood panels. Shiplap also has more hidden costs. When installing shiplap for exteriors, the wood needs to be treated against weather components. The forest will also need to be sealed. The whole process is not only expensive but also time-consuming.

What are the Disadvantages of a Shiplap Wall?

Shiplap takes time to install. Sometimes you are in a rush to move into your home. Shiplap may take a longer time to get ready than when getting drywall. Drywalls take very little time to prepare, and they cost less. Shiplap has a lot more hidden costs. You will need to do a lot more when installing shiplap. Shiplap also requires maintenance over time. Labor is an additional cost that you will have to bear. You need to regularly paint and seal the walls after every 2 to 5 years.

What Tips can Help with Reducing the cost of Shiplap Siding?

First of all, choose wood that will be budget friendly. The cheaper options of panels are a great option compared to the expensive ones. Go for the boards on the cost lower ends. With that, you can save on some money. You can also install the panel walls on your own. Simple DIY will be your friend here. You can quickly get videos on how to do it and do it on your own. The process does not require much work. You only need to measure the panels, cut the wood and then nail the forest to the wall. You can get creative and use reclaimed wood pieces for the sidings. The wood will serve a better purpose than it rotting away in a barn.

What are Drywalls?

Drywall is made up of gypsum board. The board is made up of some gypsum materials pressed together to create a board. They are already treated and finished when you buy them. Compared to shiplap they are more of a complete product. Drywall also has variants just like shiplap. There are sizes, and the cost varies with the size of the material. The board varies in thickness. The drywall is favorable for walls and sidings.
What are the Prices of Getting Drywall?

The overall cost for installing drywall will be around $40 and $60 per panel. A 12 by 12 room will, therefore, cost between $480 and $720. The cost includes the labor charges. When compared to shiplap, dry walls are an affordable option.

What are some Useful Tips for Purchasing Either Shiplap or Drywall?

The trick is to get the right measurement of your home. When buying building materials, you need to buy the right amount. For shiplap, you get extra inches for the waste wood that will be cut out. Purchasing the correct amount saves you money and time. Get ready wood for shiplap if it will need extra treatment before installation.

These answers will help you decide what you should install for your home. Whatever seems more viable to you all depends on your needs and preferences. Your home is your heaven, and therefore you should get the best materials that suit your taste.

Luke Miller

Luke Miller is a writer, real estate professional, rental property investor, and home renovation enthusiast based in Phoenix, Arizona. He grew up in Iowa in a self-sufficient household where he learned the skills to do everything from plumbing, drywall, to basic handyman repair for everyday problems. He enjoys sharing his vast experience and his continuous learning with fellow DIY enthusiasts.

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