What’s the Difference Between Shiplap and Drywall?​

Are you embarking on a home improvement project and finding yourself in a quandary over the choice between shiplap vs drywall? Well, you're not alone! When it comes to interior wall finishes, these two options often top the list, each with its unique charm and practicality. Whether you're aiming for rustic charm or a sleek, modern look, understanding the distinctions between shiplap and drywall is the first step in achieving your desired aesthetic and functionality. Let's take a closer look at the differences between shiplap and drywall.

Shiplap vs Drywall: Key Differences

Shiplap and drywall are two distinct options for interior wall finishes. Shiplap, characterized by its overlapping wooden planks, offers a rustic, textured look, adding warmth and visual interest to a space. It's often chosen for its aesthetic appeal and can be left unpainted for a natural, cozy ambiance. On the other hand, drywall is a smooth, gypsum-based panel system that provides a clean, uniform surface, ideal for a modern and minimalist appearance. 

While shiplap imparts character and depth, drywall excels in its ability to create a seamless, paintable canvas. The critical difference between these two options lies in their aesthetics, with shiplap embracing texture and character, while drywall embodies a sleek, versatile finish.

What Is Shiplap? Pros and Cons ​

Thanks to Joanna Gaines and her love of these wooden boards, shiplap is more popular than ever these days. Shiplap is a type of interior wall cladding known for its distinctive design featuring horizontally overlapping wooden boards. Originally used in rustic and coastal architecture, shiplap has now found its way into a variety of interior design styles. Its timeless appeal and versatility make it a fascinating choice for homeowners looking to enhance the aesthetic of their living spaces.

Best for: 

• Homes aiming for a cozy, rustic, or coastal look.

• Rooms where a textured, dimensional wall finish is desired.

• DIY enthusiasts with the patience for precise installation.

Pros of Shiplap

Considering shiplap for your home? You’ll enjoy these advantages if you go this route:

• Aesthetic appeal: Shiplap imparts a charming, rustic character to any room it adorns, making it a popular choice for those seeking a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

• Texture and dimension: The overlapping wooden planks add depth and texture to walls, creating a visually engaging focal point.

• Paint versatility: Shiplap can be painted in a variety of colors to match your decor, offering flexibility in design.

• Concealing imperfections: Shiplap can hide minor wall imperfections, such as uneven surfaces or cracks.

• Easy to replace: Individual shiplap boards are relatively easy to replace if damaged, simplifying maintenance.

Cons of Shiplap

On the other hand, these are the disadvantages worth considering before installing shiplap:

• Complex installation: Proper installation of shiplap requires precision and can be more labor-intensive than other wall finishes.

• Cost: Shiplap can be more expensive than traditional drywall, particularly if using real wood.

• Maintenance: It may require periodic repainting or touch-ups to maintain its appearance, depending on wear and tear.

• Limited sound insulation: It does not provide the same level of soundproofing as drywall, potentially allowing more noise transfer between rooms.

• Lacks design versatility: While it suits many styles, it may not be suitable for ultra-modern or formal aesthetics.

What Is Drywall? Pros and Cons​

Drywall, also known as plasterboard or wallboard, is a common building material used for interior walls and ceilings. It consists of gypsum panels sandwiched between layers of paper or fiberglass. Drywall is known for its smooth and uniform surface, providing a clean canvas for various interior designs and finishes.

Best for: 

• Modern and contemporary interior design styles.

• Homes with budget constraints seeking an attractive, cost-effective solution.

• Households looking for effective soundproofing between rooms.

Pros of Drywall

Now let’s look at some of the advantages associated with drywall:

• Smooth finish: Drywall creates a sleek, seamless surface that's ideal for modern and minimalist design styles.

• Easy installation: Drywall installation is typically quicker and requires less specialized skill compared to materials like shiplap or paneling.

• Versatile: It can be painted, textured, or covered with wallpaper, allowing for a wide range of design options.

• Excellent sound insulation: Drywall can provide effective soundproofing between rooms when properly installed.

• Cost-effective: Drywall is often more budget-friendly than materials like wood paneling or specialized wall finishes.

Cons of Drywall

On the flip side, here are some disadvantages of choosing drywall for your home:

• Limited aesthetic character: It lacks the texture and rustic charm of materials like shiplap, which may not suit certain aesthetics.

• Vulnerable to damage: Drywall can be easily damaged by impacts, requiring patching or replacement.

• Prone to moisture damage: Drywall is sensitive to moisture and can be damaged by water leaks or high humidity.

• Limited concealment: It may not hide wall imperfections as effectively as textured finishes like shiplap.

• Difficult repairs: Repairing large holes or extensive damage may require professional expertise to match the texture and finish.

Shiplap vs Drywall

Still on the fence about whether you want to finish your walls with shiplap or drywall? When it comes to shiplap vs  drywall, these are the categories where each option stands out.

Appearance​: Shiplap

Shiplap takes the crown when it comes to appearance. Its overlapping wooden planks create a charming, textured wall surface that adds character and warmth to any space. Shiplap's rustic allure has made it a darling of interior design, elevating the aesthetics of homes across various styles.

Options and Customizations​​: Drywall

Drywall wins in terms of options and customizations. While shiplap offers a distinct look, drywall provides a versatile canvas for endless design possibilities. You can paint, texture, or wallpaper different types of drywall to match your desired aesthetic, making it the go-to choice for those seeking flexibility in interior design.

Durability​​: Drywall

Drywall emerges as the durability champion. It can withstand everyday wear and tear and is less susceptible to damage from impacts compared to shiplap. When properly installed and maintained, drywall has a longer lifespan, making it a reliable choice for high-traffic areas.

Price​: Drywall

In the price category, drywall takes the lead. It's generally more budget-friendly than shiplap, especially when you factor in the cost of materials and installation. If you're working on a tight budget, drywall is the winner in terms of affordability. Basic drywall sheets typically cost between $0.30 to $0.60 per square foot for the material alone, whereas shiplap costs range from $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot. If you choose to hire a professional drywall installer near you, you can also expect drywall installation labor costs to be higher with shiplap.

Ease of Installation/DIY Ability​: Drywall

For ease of installation and DIY projects, drywall emerges victorious. Drywall installation is a straightforward process that can be tackled by many DIY enthusiasts. Shiplap, with its precise alignment and careful placement, can be trickier and more time-consuming, making drywall the preferred choice for those looking to save on installation costs.

Maintenance​: Shiplap

When it comes to maintenance, shiplap takes the lead. While it may require periodic repainting or touch-ups to maintain its appearance, drywall is more susceptible to visible damage from everyday use. Shiplap's rustic character can often conceal minor imperfections, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.

Length of Life​: Drywall

Drywall boasts a longer lifespan when properly cared for. Its resistance to moisture and durability against impacts contribute to its longevity. Shiplap, while charming, may require more frequent maintenance and could show signs of wear and tear sooner.