1. What is Shiplap?

Shiplap refers to wooden boards used in construction that have rabbeted edges allowing them to overlap snugly with adjacent boards. It's commonly used for interior wall paneling, exterior siding, and decorative applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the shiplap formula:

Where:

• Wall Width — Total width of the area to be covered (in feet)
• Board Width — Width of each shiplap board (in feet)
• Wall Height — Height of the area to be covered (in feet)
• Board Length — Length of each shiplap board (in feet)

Explanation: The formula calculates how many boards are needed horizontally (wall width ÷ board width) multiplied by how many boards are needed vertically (wall height ÷ board length).

3. Importance of Accurate Calculation

Details: Proper calculation helps avoid material waste, ensures you purchase enough boards for your project, and helps with budgeting and planning.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your wall dimensions carefully. Convert all measurements to feet before entering. Account for extra boards (10-15%) for cuts and waste.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Should I add extra boards for waste?
A: Yes, it's recommended to add 10-15% extra to account for cuts, mistakes, and future repairs.

Q2: How do I convert inches to feet for the calculator?
A: Divide inches by 12 (e.g., 6 inches = 0.5 feet, 8 inches = 0.6667 feet).

Q3: Does this account for the overlapping part of shiplap?
A: No, you should use the visible width (not the total width) of each board in your calculations.

Q4: What's the typical size of shiplap boards?
A: Common sizes are 6-8 inches wide (0.5-0.6667 feet) and 8-16 feet long.

Q5: How does board orientation affect the calculation?
A: This calculator assumes vertical installation. For horizontal installation, swap width and height values.