Shiplap vs. Drywall: Which Is Right for Your Space?

If you’re designing your interior space, you may be feeling spoiled for choice and unsure what direction to move in. Two popular options, shiplap and drywall, both have strengths and drawbacks when used for building. You can compare the two in aesthetics, durability, and cost to help you decide which you should use for your project.

What Is Shiplap?

Shiplap is a type of wood paneling made from boards that overlap at rabbeted edges, creating a watertight seal. This paneling has had a resurgence in popularity as a solution for improved texture and durability for interior walls.

What makes shiplap distinct is the overlapping boards that make visible seams. Shiplap is perfect for homeowners or designers interested in creating a rustic atmosphere. It’s a design element that can make your space come alive, giving it a charm that’s hard to beat.

What Is Drywall?

Drywall is the industry standard for building a modern home. It has a core of calcium sulfate dihydrate sandwiched between two sheets of heavy paper. It’s been the go-to option for decades in construction thanks to the low cost and straightforward installation.

Drywall — also known as gypsum board — provides a smooth, even surface. This smoothness is ideal for painting or adding a textured finish. It’s sought after by homeowners desiring a clean and contemporary vibe in their space.

Aesthetic Differences

Both shiplap and drywall have distinct looks that can guide your design decisions. Shiplap’s visible seams turn the average wall into a statement piece, making the environment warmer and more inviting. The look has made it extremely popular in farmhouse and coastal designs, where organic elements and natural wood grain shine.

Drywall is the opposite; it has a clean, modern, and minimalist presence. The even surface serves as a blank canvas for everything from paint to wallpaper. Designs with clean lines and a smooth finish will likely benefit from drywall to keep the look cohesive.

Durability and Maintenance

Shiplap is usually more durable and impact-resistant than drywall. The durability means it excels in high-traffic areas, provided you’re alright with refinishing it every few years to keep it looking its best.

The other great aspect of shiplap is the ability to choose a wood that fits your needs. Some woods used for shiplap include:

• Pine: An excellent pick for interior shiplap, thanks to it being lighter and cheaper
• Cedar: Easy to work with and strong, often lasting longer than vinyl siding
• Poplar: Hardwood with a smooth surface, making it ideal for interiors
• Hemlock: Distinct to the Pacific Northwest and great for stability
• Fir: Another Pacific Northwest wood with excellent rot resistance
• Southern Yellow Pine: Durable, easy to work with, and has a distinct grain pattern
• Redwood: Best for exterior shiplap thanks to its high natural resistance to decay

Each wood has its own unique strengths, which means you can easily tailor your design even further — and in a way that you can’t always do with drywall.

Drywall is generally less expensive, but it’s also more prone to dents, holes, and water damage. It’s good that repairing drywall tends to be quite simple, but that still means potentially more ongoing costs or effort associated with maintenance.

Cost of Shiplap vs. Drywall

Drywall is almost always the more affordable option, at least on paper. It needs fewer materials and less labor to install, making it ideal for the budget-conscious homeowner. However, shiplap’s incredible durability means you’ll likely get more mileage out of it than you will drywall. 

Still, the initial cost can make shiplap hard to justify for some budgets. Higher-quality wood and extensive installations can drive the price even higher. But many homeowners find the cost worth it in the long run, especially those who value the rustic aesthetic it brings into a space.

The Verdict: Which Should YOU Choose for Your Space?

The choice is yours to make; visualize your space with either option and see what speaks to you. You can boil it down to a few simple considerations. 

Shiplap is the way to go if:

• You prefer a warm, rustic vibe
• You’re open to spending more on high-quality materials
• You’re okay with the additional upkeep

You’ll likely prefer drywall if:

• You want a clean, modern aesthetic
• Have a tight budget
• Need a fast installation

If you’re interested in using shiplap for your next project, contact Reliance Timber for your shiplap needs! With options like V-Joint, Tightfit, Nickel Gap, and Nickel Gap Skipdress, you’re sure to find something to help you bring out the beauty of your home with natural wood.

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