Can you put shiplap around a fireplace?

Posted 2/5/2020 by Amanda Hall

Charred Wood Gallery Ash Living Room Fireplace

Glow-Up Your Fireplace with Shiplap

Shiplap is commonly used for accent walls and ceilings, but have you ever thought about using shiplap around your fireplace? Many people don't realize that shiplap is perfectly safe to install in your fireplace surround if you follow the correct safety codes. A small amount of shiplap can upgrade your fireplace and make a significant design difference within the room.

Check Local Code When Installing Shiplap Around A Fireplace

Every state varies with its code for fire safety and surround materials. You’ll have to check your local code requirements first, but always follow the National Fire Code and the National Standard Building Code when remodeling or designing your home interior.

NATIONAL FIRE CODE: NFPA 211

This ordinance states that all combustible material (wood trim, framing, mantels etc.) must be at least 6 inches from the fireplace opening

For every 1/8 inch of protruding combustible material, an extra inch of clearance is required

NATIONAL STANDARD BUILDING CODE:2114.3 MASONRY-BUILT FIREPLACES 4114.3.10

All combustible materials and trim must be at least 6 inches from the firebox opening.

If more than 1 ½ inches (38mm) of material projects from the face of the fireplace, you will need additional clearance equal to the length of extension beyond 1 ½ inches.

For maximum security, consider using a noncombustible material in your fireplace surround before adding shiplap. Many people will use tile, marble, stone, brick, or steel as surround materials directly around the fireplace opening for their gas or wood-burning fireplaces.

Shiplap Fireplace Inspiration

Take a look at some of the different shiplap fireplaces we think really nailed it (pun intended).

Smooth white shiplap fireplace in white room with gray tile around

Image c/o Ann Chessins Designs

Get this look: Timeless Farmhouse White shiplap

Rustic shiplap fireplace

Image c/o Homes to Love

Get this look: Charred Wood Smoke White shiplap

Painted and primed smooth shiplap fireplace

Image c/o House of Turquoise

Get this look: Timeless Primed Shiplap

Modern sunroom and fireplace featuring UFP-Edge native woods natural shiplap ceiling application

Get this look: Native Woods Shiplap

Charred Color_Ash Living Room Fireplace

Get this look: Charred Wood Ash Gray Shiplap

Shiplap tv and fireplace built in

Get this look: Timeless Farmhouse White Shiplap

Adding shiplap to a fireplace surround accentuates it as a focal point within a room. Choose from a variety of prepainted shiplap collections to fit the personality and style of your home. For tips on how to install shiplap, check out our product pages for install instructions and install videos.