A shiplap backsplash brings a charming, rustic feel to any kitchen while also providing a clean, streamlined look. With the right design choices, a shiplap backsplash can add cozy organic warmth along with sleek, contemporary style to your cooking space.
What is Shiplap?
Shiplap refers to wide, horizontal boards with grooved edges that allow them to be joined tightly together to create a flush surface. The grooves give the illusion of the boards being thicker than they are.
Shiplap siding has been used for centuries in home construction. But it has experienced a major resurgence in popularity for interior design in recent years.
The clean-lined, reclaimed wood look of shiplap provides texture and visual interest to walls. It gives a casual, inviting style to any room.
Benefits of a Shiplap Backsplash
There are many advantages to using shiplap for a kitchen backsplash:
Rustic Warmth
The rustic, reclaimed wood aesthetic of shiplap adds cozy cabin warmth to a kitchen. The pronounced wood grain and visible seams between boards give off a casual vibe.
Shiplap provides a handcrafted, organic feel as opposed to sleek ceramic or glass tile. Its worn, imperfect look provides authentic charm.
Texture & Dimension
The layered boards and dramatic seams provide appealing visual texture and dimension. Shiplap adds complex depth versus a flat backsplash material.
The intersecting lines and varied grain patterns give the eye places to rest and details to admire. This creates a more dynamic look than a homogenous tile design.
Clean-Lined Style
While rustic in nature, shiplap also provides clean lines and crisp edges. The parallel boards have a streamlined look compared to intricate backsplash tiles.
Shiplap can provide urban modern flair. The simple linear design often associated with industrial lofts can be adapted for contemporary kitchen aesthetics.
Easy Maintenance
A shiplap backsplash requires very little maintenance compared to grouted tile or delicate glass. It can be easily dusted and cleaned as needed.
It does not require sealing or extensive scrubbing like more porous backsplash materials. This makes shiplap an incredibly low-maintenance option.
Budget Friendly
Depending on the type of lumber used, shiplap is often an affordable backsplash choice. Pine or poplar boards are cost effective options that still provide rustic appeal.
Installation is also generally simple and does not require specialized labor like tile or stone. This helps keep project costs down.
Design Considerations for Shiplap Backsplashes
While shiplap itself provides texture, playing with various design elements can further enhance its rustic style and prevent a flat or boring look.
Choosing Wood Type
The characteristics of different wood species can emphasize the rustic or sleek aesthetic.
- Distressed woods like barnwood or salvaged oak have the most pronounced rustic vibe. Their imperfections tell the story of their history.
- Knotty pine offers an affordable, casual texture with prominent grain patterns.
- Poplar has a creamy white color that gives a more refined, painted look.
- White oak has a striking linear grain that complements contemporary styles well.
Finishes & Stains
Finish and stain choices also impact the style achieved with a shiplap backsplash.
- Light natural stains allow the woodgrain to show through for a subdued rustic feel.
- Dark walnut stains make the texture pop for more drama.
- Bright white paint lends a clean-lined cottage charm.
- Glossy polyurethanes create a sleeker modern vibe.
Selecting Complementary Materials
Pairing shiplap with other organic materials enhances its natural style.
- Exposed brick accent walls or concrete counters work well with reclaimed shiplap boards.
- Natural stone mosaic tiles can provide rustic contrast while breaking up the linear look.
- Aged metal accents like barn lights or wire hardware emphasize vintage appeal.
Mixing in some sleek, contemporary materials prevents overwhelming rusticity.
- Solid surface quartz countertops offset the busyness of shiplap.
- Glass pendant lights illuminate the texture without competing.
- Polished metal hardware and fixtures keep the look refined.
Creative Layouts
Shiplap does not have to be a basic horizontal installation. Getting creative with the layout prevents monotonous lines.
- Blending horizontal and vertical pieces adds appealing asymmetry.
- Running boards vertically draws the eye up and makes ceilings appear higher.
- Herringbone and chevron designs provide diagonal visual interest.
- Using differently sized boards creates pleasant variation.
Installation Tips for Shiplap Backsplash
Proper installation techniques ensure your shiplap backsplash looks clean, professional, and built to last.
Allow for Expansion
Since wood expands and contracts with temperature and humidity, it’s crucial to leave a 1/8” gap between each shiplap board during installation. This prevents buckling.
Use Backerboard
Installing shiplap over a moisture-resistant backerboard will prevent warping. Concrete board, acrylic board, or water-resistant drywall are good options.
Add Support Battens
Nailing support battens horizontally along the wall provides a solid anchoring foundation for installing shiplap boards vertically.
Use Construction Adhesive
In addition to nails or screws, use construction adhesive between shiplap boards and the substrate for incredibly secure attachment.
Fill Grooves & Distress Marks
Filling the board grooves and any nicks or imperfections with tinted wood putty ensures a smooth, consistent finish.
Seal Properly
Apply two coats of food-safe sealant made for butcher block countertops. This will protect the shiplap from moisture, food stains, and bacteria.
Maintaining and Cleaning Shiplap
With proper care, a shiplap backsplash will remain beautiful for years to come. Here are some tips:
- Dust regularly with a soft cloth or brush attachment to prevent buildup of grime in grooves over time.
- Blot spills immediately to prevent staining, then clean with mild soap and water.
- Reapply sealant every 1-2 years to maintain the finish and water resistance.
- Avoid excessive moisture that can warp shiplap boards. Quickly wipe up wet spills and leaks.
- Use vinegar or wood cleaner to brighten the appearance as needed over time.
- Refinish with stain or paint if the color fades significantly. Sanding may be required before refinishing.
Ideas for Color Pairings
The light neutral wood tones of most shiplap provide a versatile backdrop for a wide variety of color schemes. Here are some appealing combinations:
Warm & Earthy
The natural wood shades of shiplap pair perfectly with other earthy elements like terracotta, olive green, and warm wood stains. This creates a welcoming, grounded look.
Accent walls in rich umber or deepest green look right at home. Mixing natural materials like jute, stone, and leather enhances the organic vibe.
Crisp & Bright
For a fresh, lively kitchen, pair crisp whites and pale blues with light shiplap backsplashes. Accent walls in coral or buttery yellow add cheery pops of color.
Keep countertops and fixtures clean-lined and bright. A few navy or kelly green pieces provide bold contrast.
Sophisticated & Moody
For a more elegant, luxurious ambiance, combine shiplap with sultry hues like inky blues, deep grays, and saturated emerald greens.
Dramatic cabinet colors like black or charcoal let the rich wood grains shine. Brass fixtures and antique gold accents complement the moody vibe.
Shiplap Backsplash Ideas for Specific Kitchen Layouts
The unique footprint and architecture of your kitchen provides design inspiration for shiplap. Lean into the existing features with strategic backsplash placement.
Galley Kitchens
Use shiplap to draw the eye down the length of a narrow galley space. Run boards horizontally to reinforce the flow.
Break up any monotonous lines with creative use of vertical boards, varied heights, or introducing other materials.
Open Concept Kitchens
Take advantage of the open sight lines by running shiplap onto adjacent walls. This helps the kitchen seamlessly blend into living areas.
Varying the direction and layout of the shiplap in different zones helps delineate the spaces.
Kitchens with High Ceilings
Make a tall space cozy by running shiplap vertically up the walls. This grounds the look and provides an enclosing effect.
Alternating horizontal and vertical pieces adds appealing asymmetry to a vaulted ceiling while optimizing the vertical real estate.
Kitchens with Windows
Frame windows with vertical shiplap boards to create a polished, built-in look. Maintain clear lines of sight by minimizing crossbeams.
Pair with warm wood blinds or linen curtains to complement the rustic textures.
Kitchens with Stone
Complement the organic texture of stone countertops or accent walls by installing shiplap in a stacked stone pattern with uneven courses.
Echo the gray veins and undertones of natural stone by selecting weathered wood or applying a smoked finish.
Kitchens with Brick
Make small brick expanses feel like a substantial accent wall by flanking with shiplap on surrounding walls.
For larger brick statements, break up the pattern by periodically integrating horizontal shiplap courses.
Kitchens with Islands
Wrap shiplap around a kitchen island to give it rustic character that enhances the piece as a showcase focal point.
Incorporate vertical shiplap on the island front for a dynamic look. Pair with pendant lighting for drama.
Shiplap Backsplash Design Inspiration
Here are some gorgeous shiplap backsplash examples highlighting the rustic warmth and clean-lined style possible:
Rustic Farmhouse
Distressed barnwood shiplap paired with open brick shelving emits casual rural charm. The varied stain tones and visible nail heads amp up the handcrafted vibe.
Country touches like woven baskets, ceramic chickens, and floral curtains complete the welcoming farmhouse look. But sleek stainless appliances and pendant lights keep the aesthetic feeling fresh.
Modern Industrial
The linear look of white oak shiplap provides an urban loft vibe against exposed concrete walls. Sleek black pendant lights play nicely against the reclaimed wood texture.
Stainless steel hardware and fixtures keep the look refined. Simple subway tiles on the wall behind the stove balance the busyness of the wood grain.
Contemporary Cottage
Wide poplar shiplap boards with bright white paint offer a breezy, coastal feel. The clean white palette combined with glass fronts and polished hardware keep the look light and contemporary.
Touches of emerald green and navy blue provide preppy contrast and reinforce the cottage charm. Open shelves and woven baskets enhance the casually inviting ambiance.
Sophisticated Rustic
Walnut-stained acacia wood shiplap emanates rustic richness and dimension. The striking vertical grain and varied board widths provide dramatic visual appeal.
Creamy marble countertops and backsplash tiles temper the country vibe with a bit of elegance. Polished gold fixtures and hardware walk the line between rustic and refined.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shiplap Backsplashes
Many homeowners have questions when considering a shiplap backsplash. Here are answers to some of the most common queries:
Is shiplap durable enough for a kitchen backsplash?
Yes, shiplap is very durable, especially when properly sealed and maintained. The wood boards stand up well to moisture, heat, grease, and everyday wear-and-tear.
Does shiplap need to be installed over backerboard?
Installing over a moisture-resistant substrate is highly recommended to prevent warping or water damage issues down the line.
What’s the best way to clean a shiplap backsplash?
Blotting spills immediately then wiping down with a soft, damp cloth and mild detergent is best for routine cleaning. Refrain from abrasive cleaners or pads.
Can you install shiplap horizontally, vertically, or diagonally?
Shiplap looks great installed any direction. Mixing up orientations adds appealing visual interest. Just be sure to account for proper expansion gaps.
Should shiplap boards be fitted tightly together or spaced apart?
The boards should be fitted closely together to create the signature flush shiplap surface but with a 1/8 inch gap left between each for expansion.
How is shiplap attached to the wall?
Shiplap boards are commonly attached using finish nails or screws along with construction adhesive for incredibly secure adhesion.
Achieve the Perfect Rustic Chic Kitchen Backsplash with Shiplap
With its blend of weathered warmth and clean-lined modernity, shiplap is a versatile choice to create your ideal kitchen aesthetic.
Lean into organic and reclaimed materials to embrace charming farmhouse rusticity. Or pair shiplap with contemporary metals, stone, and finishes to achieve sleek industrial flair.
Beyond it’s charming aesthetic appeal, a shiplap backsplash provides a smart, low-maintenance alternative to traditional tile and stone.
With proper installation and care, you can enjoy the handcrafted beauty of a shiplap backsplash for years to come. It will infuse any kitchen space with character, texture, and timeless style.
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