Shiplap Care 101: How to Keep Your Shiplap Walls Looking Great

HomeBlogShiplap Care 101: How to Keep Your Shiplap Walls Looking Great

Shiplap has become an extremely popular option for interior surfaces like walls and ceilings, largely thanks to the rustic charm it creates in a room. Shiplap is characterized by its overlapping boards that create a tight seal while still allowing for lots of texture and character.

Shiplap Care 101: How to Keep Your Shiplap Walls Looking Great

If you have shiplap in your home already or are considering adding it, it’s helpful to know how to properly clean it so that you can keep dust and other grime from building up in the grooves and channels that make shiplap so appealing. Here are some of our top tips for cleaning shiplap so that it looks great for many years to come.

Cleaning Schedule

  • Dusting: Every 1-2 weeks. Regularly wiping down your shiplap surfaces with a soft cloth or feather duster is a simple, quick step that keeps dust and dirt from working deep into the grooves.
  • Cleansing Wipe Down: 1x-2x per month. Every so often, wipe down your shiplap with a damp cloth and a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner. Mild soap or specialized wood cleaner is best.
  • Joint & Crevice Care: Every 2-3 months.To keep dust from accumulating in the joints, crevices, and other harder-to-reach areas, use a small, soft brush or a vacuum attachment to clean the spaces between the boards.

Preventing Common Issues

  • Finish First: Adding a protective layer like polyurethane or sealant will go a long way toward protecting your shiplap. While it’s not impossible to apply finish to shiplap that’s already installed, it’s easier and more effective to apply it before installation to ensure you get full coverage.
  • Manage Moisture: Shiplap is prone to moisture damage, like most wood materials. Make sure you keep the area well-ventilated and clean up any spills as soon as you notice them.
  • Screen Sunlight: Direct sun can cause fading and other UV damage, so if your shiplap is in an area with lots of natural light, make sure you have methods for filtering the harsh rays, such as blinds or curtains, to keep them from constant exposure.

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