What is shiplap cladding?
Shiplap cladding is made from timber boards with a rebated edge so each board overlaps the next. The overlapping profile creates a neat, continuous finish and helps direct rain away from the face of the cladding when the boards are fitted correctly.
Shiplap is widely used on sheds, garden buildings, workshops and outbuildings, while untreated shiplap can also be used for suitable internal and sheltered projects. If you are looking for shiplap boards for a specific job, the main choice is whether you need treated timber for exterior use or untreated timber for a protected application.
Treated or untreated shiplap cladding?
Choosing between treated and untreated shiplap depends mainly on where the timber will be used.
Treated shiplap for exterior work
For sheds, garden buildings and other exposed outdoor projects, choose our Treated Redwood Shiplap Cladding. The timber is pressure treated for exterior use and is the better option where the cladding will be exposed to the weather.
Untreated shiplap for internal and sheltered work
For internal lining, sheltered applications and projects where you want to apply your own finish, see our Untreated Softwood Shiplap Cladding.
What are shiplap boards used for?
Timber shiplap cladding is a versatile finishing board. Common uses include:
- Shed and garden building cladding
- Workshops and timber outbuildings
- Exterior timber cladding where a shiplap profile is suitable
- Internal timber lining
- Sheltered decorative timber projects
The profile is particularly popular where a traditional horizontal timber-clad appearance is wanted.
Shiplap cladding for sheds and garden buildings
Shiplap is one of the most familiar timber cladding profiles used on sheds and garden buildings. The overlapping rebate gives the finished wall a tidy boarded appearance while helping water run down the outside face rather than through a simple square-edged joint.
For shed shiplap cladding and other exposed garden structures, our treated redwood option is the appropriate starting point. The untreated board is better reserved for internal or protected applications.
Exterior shiplap cladding
Exterior shiplap cladding should be selected with the exposure of the finished project in mind. For outdoor work, use timber intended for exterior use rather than relying on an untreated board in an exposed position.
Our treated shiplap is available in 3.6m and 4.8m lengths, giving useful options for sheds, garden rooms and larger timber structures while reducing unnecessary joins where longer boards suit the job.
Untreated shiplap cladding
Untreated shiplap is useful where the timber is protected from direct weather exposure or where the customer wants control over the final finish. Our untreated softwood shiplap is available in 4.2m, 4.5m and 4.8m lengths.
It is a useful choice for internal lining and sheltered timber projects, while the treated redwood board should be chosen where the finished cladding is intended for exposed exterior work.
Shiplap vs tongue & groove vs loglap
Shiplap is one of several timber cladding profiles. The right option depends on the appearance and application you want.
- Shiplap cladding uses an overlapping rebated profile and is a popular choice for sheds and exterior garden buildings.
- Tongue & groove cladding uses an interlocking tongue and groove joint to create a close-fitting boarded surface.
- Loglap cladding has a rounded face designed to create a heavier, log-style appearance.
If shiplap is not the profile you need, browse our full Timber Cladding range.
Choosing the right shiplap timber
Before ordering, consider where the boards are going, the finish you want and the lengths that best suit the project. For exposed exterior work, treated shiplap is the straightforward choice. For internal or sheltered use, untreated shiplap gives you more freedom over the final finish.
Board dimensions and available lengths are shown on each product page, so you can choose the option that best suits the wall or structure you are cladding.
How much shiplap cladding do I need?
Start with the area you need to cover, then calculate using the effective cover of the installed board rather than simply using its full nominal width. Because shiplap boards overlap, the visible cover is less than the full width of the board.
Allow extra material for cuts, joins and waste, particularly around corners, doors and windows. Ordering the full quantity together also helps keep the timber and machining as consistent as possible across the project.
Shiplap cladding FAQs
What is shiplap timber?
Shiplap timber is a profiled timber board with rebated edges that overlap when installed. The profile is used to create a neat boarded finish and is especially common on sheds, garden buildings and timber outbuildings.
Can shiplap cladding be used outside?
Yes. For exterior shiplap cladding, choose a board intended for outdoor use. Our treated redwood shiplap is the appropriate option for sheds, garden buildings and other exposed exterior projects.
Is shiplap good for sheds?
Yes. Shiplap is a popular shed cladding profile because the overlapping joint creates a tidy finish and helps direct water down the outside face when fitted correctly.
What is the difference between treated and untreated shiplap?
Treated shiplap is intended for exterior applications where the timber will face weather exposure. Untreated shiplap is better suited to internal or sheltered projects and can be finished to suit the job.
Is shiplap the same as tongue and groove?
No. Shiplap uses an overlapping rebated edge, while tongue and groove boards interlock using a projecting tongue and matching groove. Both are timber cladding profiles, but they create different joints and finished appearances.
What shiplap lengths do you stock?
Our treated redwood shiplap is available in 3.6m and 4.8m lengths. Our untreated softwood shiplap is available in 4.2m, 4.5m and 4.8m lengths. Check the product options for current sizes and pricing.