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Remodeling 101: The Ultimate Guide to Shiplap, Beadboard, and V-Groove Paneling

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Remodeling 101: The Ultimate Guide to Shiplap, Beadboard, and V-Groove Paneling

April 25, 2019

When I was growing up, wood paneling was a dirty word. It meant dark, knotty pine (or worse, faux wood) that sucked all the light out of the room. Fortunately such cladding has come a long way. Or, more accurately, happily we’ve revitalized age-old paneling such as shiplap, beadboard, and V-groove.

A most versatile design element, today’s wooden paneling or cladding has manifold interior applications. It can be installed vertically to emphasize the height of a room or horizontally to add a sense of dynamism. It can be used on ceilings and walls to create visual interest or to cover a multitude of sins. Cladding can be applied to make a small space seem more expansive or a large one more intimate. It can be painted or, for a more rustic feel, left unfinished. Finally, it is equally at home in a country cottage or a contemporary flat.

But we’ve noticed that people often confuse different types of paneling. So today, with the help of our friends Percy Bright and Tara Mangini from Jersey Ice Cream Co., we’re taking a closer look at three of the most popular interior wood cladding: beadboard, V-groove, and shiplap.

1. Beadboard

in a renovated new york farmhouse, percy and tara transformed a basic stai 17
Above: In a renovated New York farmhouse, Percy and Tara transformed a basic staircase into an architectural focal point (as well as a utilitarian coat rack) by installing beadboard paneling and simple Shaker hooks. (See: A Country House Reinvented by Jersey Ice Cream Co.) Photograph by Beth Kirby of Local Milk.

What is beadboard?

Old-fashioned beadboard cladding consists of individual, generally narrow, boards with a routered “bead” edge on one side and beveled edge on the other. Placed tightly together via a tongue and groove, they create a decorative profile as seen below. Today’s beadboard looks the same as the older variety, but comes in an easy-to-install sheets, instead of individual boards.

Remodeling 101 The Ultimate Guide to Shiplap Beadboard and VGroove Paneling portrait 7 18

in stylist and photographer beth kirby&#8\2\17;s kitchen, jersey ice cream  19
Above: In stylist and photographer Beth Kirby’s kitchen, Jersey Ice Cream Co. literally topped off their contemporary country feel with a beadboard ceiling. (See: The One-Month Makeover: Beth Kirby’s Star-Is-Born Kitchen.) Photograph by Beth Kirby.

Where and how do I use it?

Everyone knows that if you want to achieve an instant New England cottage bathroom, install beadboard wainscoting halfway up the wall. While it’s true that beadboard has a country feel, it can also be used to make what might otherwise be a stark, modern space a bit more friendly.

Easily installed and relatively affordable, beadboard is great for quick fixes such an instant backsplash (see Kitchen of the Week: A DIY Kitchen Overhaul for Under $500) or ceiling rehab (see Rehab Diaries: DIY Beadboard Ceilings).

if you guessed that this is v groove, you would be wrong. in the renovation in  20
Above: If you guessed that this is V-groove, you would be wrong. In the renovation in Old Chatham, New York, Percy and Tara used a router to create custom, wide, beadboard planking. (See: Old Soul: A Revolution-Era Hudson Valley Home Gets an Update from Jersey Ice Cream Co.) Photograph by Beth Kirby.
for an update in this historic hudson valley home, tara and percy created  21
Above: For an update in this historic Hudson Valley home, Tara and Percy created a cozy, yet contemporary, bedroom nook with beadboard painted in fresh white. Note how even the recessed shelf gets this textured treatment. (See: Old Soul: A Revolution-Era Hudson Valley Home Gets an Update from Jersey Ice Cream Co.) Photograph by Beth Kirby.

2. V-Groove

a detail of v groove shows how well it pairs with other organic elements such a 22
Above: A detail of V-groove shows how well it pairs with other organic elements such as these more formal marble countertops. (See Building Character: Jersey Ice Cream Co. and the Case of the Charmless Manse.) Photograph by Emily Hirsch and Erick Steinberg of Heidi’s Bridge.

What is V-groove?

Typically wider than beadboard, V-groove planks have a chamfered edge, that when fit together, via a tongue-and-groove joint, results in a V-shape in-between the boards. Like beadboard, V-groove is now available in sheets.

Remodeling 101 The Ultimate Guide to Shiplap Beadboard and VGroove Paneling portrait 7 23

painted a deep indigo, rustic v groove suddenly takes on a more glamorous air.& 24
Above: Painted a deep indigo, rustic V-groove suddenly takes on a more glamorous air. (See: A Country House Reinvented by Jersey Ice Cream Co.) Photograph by Beth Kirby of Local Milk.

Where and how do I use it?

V-groove, like beadboard, can be used to add character and soul to a room. However, with exception of ceiling applications, it is typically used to cover a larger area, or in a setting where beadboard might appear too precious. With its wider planks, V-groove has a more substantial feel, but as a natural, textured material, it still softens a room, making it feel more intimate. In a historic setting, V-groove is more formal than beadboard, which definitely has more of a cottage vibe. Because V-groove is less ornate and has “cleaner” lines than beadboard, it can work better in a modern setting.

as seen in this updated farmhouse kitchen in kent, the visual simplicity o 25
Above: As seen in this updated farmhouse kitchen in Kent, the visual simplicity of V-groove, lends itself to a contemporary setting where its rusticity can be employed to soften the space. (See: Kitchen of the Week: Eclectic English Kitchen, Color Included.) Photograph via Light Locations.

3. Shiplap

a detail of shiplap in sheila bonnell&#8\2\16;s guest room shows the distin 26
Above: A detail of shiplap in Sheila Bonnell‘s guest room shows the distinct gaps between the boards.

What is shiplap?

Unlike beadboard and V-groove, which are connected via tongue and groove, shiplap boards are joined with an overlapping “rabbet” joint, which usually creates a 90 degree-angled gap in between the boards. (I say, “usually,” because just to confuse things, there is V-groove shiplap with a beveled edge.) As a result, the boards can be set to a wider or lesser degree apart.

Remodeling 101 The Ultimate Guide to Shiplap Beadboard and VGroove Paneling portrait 7

vega summerhaus nauste kolman boye 28

Above: In this remote Norwegian retreat, Kolman Boye Architects used shiplap to dramatic effect on the walls and ceiling of their contemporary cabin.

Where and how do I use it?

Perhaps due to the fact that there is more distinct visual contrast between the boards, shiplap has the strongest lines and is therefore often considered the most contemporary of all the paneling examined here. Unlike beadboard and V-groove, which can feel cozy, shiplap is a bit more dynamic, as it draws your eye around the room. Therefore shiplap is ideal for modern spaces in which you want to add a bit of a crafted feel or in updated historic contexts. Like beadboard and V-groove, it can be applied vertically or horizontally, on ceilings or walls. For more on shiplap, see: Expert Advice: The Enduring Appeal of Shiplap.

7 hidden hollow
Above: In this 18th-century farmhouse in Connecticut, O’Neill Rose Architects used cypress shiplap siding to create a contemporary mudroom that is still very much in keeping with the rest of the historic home. (See The Architect Is In: Porch Appreciation in Connecticut.) Photograph by Michael Moran.

Interested in more updated cladding choices?

N.B.: This post is an update; the original story ran on April 27, 2017.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between shiplap, beadboard, and V-groove paneling?

Shiplap, beadboard, and V-groove paneling are all types of wall paneling, but they have distinct characteristics. Shiplap features overlapping horizontal boards with a distinctive rabbet joint, creating a tight and flush look. Beadboard has narrow, vertical planks with a groove or "bead" running along one or both edges. V-groove paneling consists of tongue-and-groove boards with a V-shaped groove running along the joint.

Is shiplap only suitable for rustic or farmhouse-style interiors?

While shiplap is commonly associated with rustic or farmhouse aesthetics, it can be versatile and work well in various interior design styles, including coastal, modern, and transitional. It can add texture, visual interest, and a sense of warmth to any space.

Can beadboard be used in bathrooms or other high-moisture areas?

Yes, beadboard is often used in bathrooms and other high-moisture areas. However, it's important to choose a moisture-resistant material, such as PVC or beadboard made specifically for wet environments, to prevent warping or damage from moisture exposure.

How can I incorporate V-groove paneling into my home?

V-groove paneling can be used in various ways, such as on walls, ceilings, and even as wainscoting. It adds a classic, elegant look to a space and can be painted or stained to match your desired style. V-groove paneling is commonly seen in traditional and cottage-style interiors.

Can I install shiplap, beadboard, or V-groove paneling myself?

Yes, DIY installation of shiplap, beadboard, or V-groove paneling is possible, depending on your skill level and the complexity of the project. It's important to properly measure, cut, and secure the panels according to the manufacturer's instructions. However, for larger or more intricate installations, it may be best to hire a professional.

What are the advantages of using paneling instead of drywall?

Paneling offers several advantages over drywall. It adds texture and visual interest to walls, can help with sound insulation, covers imperfections in the existing wall surface, and allows for easier installation of decorative elements such as hooks or shelving.

Can I paint or stain shiplap, beadboard, or V-groove paneling?

Yes, all three types of paneling can be painted or stained to suit your desired aesthetic. They provide a good surface for paint or stain application, allowing you to customize the color or finish according to your preference.

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