What Is Shiplap Used For?

Shiplap is a type of wooden planking that was originally used as an inexpensive covering for the exterior of barns and older, historic homes. Because of its versatility and character it is now used as decoration in many interior spaces in modern homes. Shiplap is a very flexible material and can be used in almost any room in a home.

Shiplap gets its name from planking that was once used when making ships. Because of its overlapping joint structure, it provided a tight, waterproof seal for ship construction. For the same reason, it was also used for seaside cottages and other housing in harsh environments. Reclaimed shiplap often retains evidence of the wear and tear it suffered during its previous life and has a unique look and patina. Shiplap Los Angeles can be found in architectural salvage yards and other places that sell reclaimed wood in the greater city area.