Types of Shiplap: A Complete Guide to Profiles and Styles

Posted 7/23/2018 by Marketing

Woman at home office desk with shiplap accent wall

While "shiplap" has become a popular buzzword in home design, it's actually just one specific profile among many options for wood wall and ceiling treatments. Despite the term being commonly used to describe any decorative wood boards used on walls and ceilings, true shiplap refers to a particular installation style with its own unique characteristics.

In this guide, we'll explore genuine shiplap along with other beautiful wood profiles that bring warmth, texture, and character to interior spaces. With so many options available, how do you choose the right profile for your project? This breakdown of different wood board styles will help you find the perfect match for your design vision.

Square Edge Shiplap & Nickel Gap Shiplap

Traditional shiplap features square-edged boards with a rabbeted edge, allowing the boards to overlap and fit together securely. This creates the classic, clean-lined look that has become so popular in modern homes.

Square Edge (Butt Joint) Shiplap:

Features a flat, square edge where boards meet flush with minimal gaps
Available in Edge's Charred Wood Collection, featuring unique pre-finished options
Creates a seamless, contemporary appearance with clean lines
Perfect for modern and minimalist interior designs

Nickel Gap Shiplap:

Creates a small, consistent space between boards (traditionally the width of a nickel)
Available in Edge's Rustic Collection
Provides more definition between boards and enhances shadow lines
Adds subtle dimension and texture to walls while maintaining a clean look

Both styles can be installed horizontally or vertically, offering versatile design options for any room in your home. Whether you choose prefinished options or boards ready for custom paint or stain, these profiles provide enduring appeal for accent walls, feature ceilings, or full-room applications.

Tongue and Groove Profiles

Tongue and groove profiles feature a protruding "tongue" edge that fits perfectly into the "groove" edge of the adjacent board. This creates a secure, interlocking installation that's especially valuable for certain applications.

Modern home with white shiplap accent ceiling and walls

Tongue and Groove Nickel Gap:

Available in Edge's premium Timeless Collection
Combines the look of nickel gap spacing with the structural advantages of T&G
Provides clean, consistent spacing with fewer exposed fasteners
Provides a more secure fit and easier installation compared to standard shiplap

Tongue and Groove V-Groove (WP-4):

Features a distinct V-shaped channel where boards meet
Available in Edge's Timeless Collection
Creates pronounced shadow lines and visual interest
Excellent for ceilings and accent walls where texture is desired

The interlocking nature of tongue and groove makes it particularly well-suited for ceiling installations, where the secure fit helps prevent separation over time. T&G profiles can be used in both interior spaces and select covered exterior applications like porches and soffits.

Edge & Center Bead (Beaded Ceiling)

A classic profile that brings distinctive character to any space:

Edge & Center Bead:

Features a decorative "bead" or semicircular ridge running along the center and edges of each board
Available in Edge's Timeless Collection with T&G profile
Creates a traditional, timeless look reminiscent of historic homes
Particularly popular for ceiling applications and wainscoting
Also known as "beaded ceiling" or "beadboard" in some applications

This profile adds elegant detail and visual interest, making it perfect for cottage, farmhouse, or traditional design styles. The beaded pattern catches light beautifully, adding subtle dimension to walls and ceilings.

Modern kitchen with shiplap ceiling application

Choosing the Right Profile for Your Project

When selecting a shiplap profile, consider:

Aesthetic: Do you want a clean, modern look or more traditional character?
Installation area: Walls, ceilings, or wainscoting? Some profiles are better suited to specific applications.
Finishing: Will you paint, stain, or use pre-finished boards?

Edge offers a variety of collections to match your specific needs:

Timeless Collection: Features T&G Nickel Gap, T&G V-Groove, and T&G Edge & Center Bead
Rustic Collection: Offers Nickel Gap Shiplap with natural character
Charred Wood Collection: Provides unique Butt Joint Shiplap with distinctive burnt wood aesthetic
Natural Pattern Boards: Includes a wide range of profiles for specific design visions

Ready to Transform Your Space?

Whether you're creating an accent wall, refreshing a ceiling, or adding character throughout your home, the right shiplap profile can elevate your space from ordinary to extraordinary.

Browse Pattern to explore UFP-Edge's complete selection of shiplap and pattern boards, and find the perfect profile for your next project.