Shiplap Accent Wall Repair
Shiplap Accent Wall Repair is a common walls job. Homeowners typically spend about $36 on materials if they tackle it themselves, while hiring a professional usually runs $300–$900 depending on access, parts, and local labor rates. DIY can save up to about $864 versus a full pro job when the work stays straightforward.
Expect roughly 1-2 days for a careful DIY attempt versus about 1 day for a seasoned pro. Difficulty is rated 3/5 (moderately challenging) with low risk. Typical materials include shiplap boards, finish nails, construction adhesive. Common tools: nail gun, miter saw, level, tape measure.
Use the sections below to weigh DIY against hiring: cost ranges, safety alerts, common mistakes, and a personalized analysis for your ZIP code.
Typical Cost
Cost estimates based on cataloged material prices and regional pro rates. Run the analysis for US-wide retailer prices and a regional professional-cost estimate. How we estimate costs.
Is this a DIY job?
AI-assisted educational guidance — not reviewed by a licensed professional. Review policy.
- Typical DIY time1-2 days
- Typical pro time1 day
- Permit requiredNo
What affects the cost
- Local labor rates for walls pros and whether the visit is emergency vs. scheduled.
- Brand and quality of parts (shiplap boards, finish nails, construction adhesive) versus economy alternatives.
- Tool rental or purchase (catalog estimate about $55 for specialized tools).
- Access difficulty (tight spaces, multi-story work, finished surfaces that must be protected or repaired after the job).
When to hire a pro
- If you feel dizzy, short of breath, or develop a rash, leave the area, ventilate, and seek medical help if symptoms persist.
- If you strike a wire or pipe, or see unexpected water/electricity, stop immediately and call the appropriate trade.
- High-impact DIY mistake — Incorrect Nailing: Use a nail gun to secure the boards, and aim for the center of the board to avoid splitting.
- When hiring a professional to install a shiplap accent wall, be sure to provide them with the exact dimensions of the wall and the type of shiplap boards you want to use. Ask for a detailed quote that includes the cost of materials and labor.
- Inquire about the contractor's experience with shiplap installations and ask to see examples of their previous work. Check online reviews and ask for references to ensure you're hiring a reputable professional.
- Before the project begins, confirm that the contractor has the necessary licenses and insurance to work in your state and on your type of property.
- Get 3 quotes from licensed professionals
- Check reviews on Angi, Thumbtack, or Google
Hazards & safety alerts
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medium chemical Chemical exposure and fumes
Products used for shiplap accent wall can irritate skin, eyes, and lungs. Poor ventilation multiplies exposure during mixing, sanding, or curing.
Stop and call a pro if: If you feel dizzy, short of breath, or develop a rash, leave the area, ventilate, and seek medical help if symptoms persist.
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low injury Hidden utilities behind finishes
Cutting or fastening into walls for shiplap accent wall can hit electrical cables, plumbing, or HVAC lines hidden in the cavity.
Stop and call a pro if: If you strike a wire or pipe, or see unexpected water/electricity, stop immediately and call the appropriate trade.
Materials you'll need
| Material | Est. Price |
|---|---|
| shiplap boards | $25.00 |
| finish nails | $3.00 |
| construction adhesive | $8.00 |
| Total (DIY materials) | $36.00 |
Tools: nail gun, miter saw, level, tape measure
DIY steps
- Before starting, ensure the wall is clean, dry, and free of any old adhesives or debris. Wear protective gear, including safety glasses and a dust mask. Turn off the power to any outlets or switches in the area, and cover the floor and furniture with drop cloths.
- Measure the width of the wall and calculate the number of shiplap boards needed, leaving a 1/8-inch gap between each board. Cut the boards to the required length using a miter saw, and set aside.
- Apply construction adhesive to the back of the first shiplap board, and press it firmly onto the wall, starting from the center and working your way outward. Use a level to ensure the board is straight, and secure it with finish nails using a nail gun.
- Continue installing the shiplap boards using their designed shiplap joint and a level to maintain straight lines. Maintain only the manufacturer-specified expansion spacing; do not add a separate face overlap.
- Once all the boards are installed, inspect the wall for any gaps or unevenness. Fill any gaps with caulk, and sand the entire wall to smooth out any rough edges or splinters.
- Finally, apply a finish coat of paint or stain to the shiplap accent wall, following the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times.
Common DIY mistakes
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medium Insufficient Adhesive
Not applying enough construction adhesive to the back of the shiplap boards can cause them to detach from the wall over time.
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low Inadequate Spacing
Failing to maintain even spacing between shiplap boards can result in a uneven and unprofessional-looking finish.
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high Incorrect Nailing
Nailing the shiplap boards too tightly or at an angle can cause them to split or become damaged.
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medium Poor Surface Preparation
Failing to clean and prepare the wall surface before installing shiplap can cause the boards to detach or become uneven.
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low Inadequate Finishing
Not applying a finish coat to the shiplap accent wall can leave it vulnerable to damage and discoloration.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to fix a shiplap accent wall?
- DIY materials typically run about $36. Hiring a pro usually costs $300-$900 depending on your area and the scope of the job.
- Can I fix a shiplap accent wall myself?
- It depends on the job. Difficulty is rated 3/5 and risk level is low. Run the free analysis on RepairSmart for a personalized DIY vs. hire recommendation.
- What are common mistakes when you fix a shiplap accent wall?
- Common DIY mistakes include: Insufficient Adhesive; Inadequate Spacing; Incorrect Nailing. See RepairSmart for the full list and cost breakdown.
- What safety hazards should I watch for when working on shiplap accent wall?
- Key hazards include: Chemical exposure and fumes; Hidden utilities behind finishes. See RepairSmart for stop-conditions and the full safety list.
Not sure? Get a personalized recommendation
RepairSmart compares US-wide retailer prices with regional pro costs and gives you a weighted DIY-vs-hire recommendation in under 60 seconds.
About these estimates
- Numbers on this page come from the RepairSmart catalog (materials baselines and typical pro ranges). They are educational estimates, not contractor quotes.
- Personalized ZIP analysis may add live or cached retailer prices and regional pro signals when third-party data is configured.
- Read how costs and DIY scores are calculated, our safety & review policy, and about RepairSmart.
- If guidance is marked unreviewed, treat steps and tips as educational only—not a professional sign-off for your home.