Renovating your home can be challenging, especially if you're not sure if one material can be securely attached to another. Above all, you need to prioritize your home's structural integrity and durability.
So, if you plan to cover the cinder blocks with shiplap, how can you go about it? Is it possible? We're curious, too, so we've researched answers to find out.
In theory, it is possible to glue shiplap to cinderblock. However, the cinder blocks won't always be smooth and flat enough to truly be effective. The best way to install a shiplap to a cinderblock is to create a sub wall between them and install it on that sub wall.
Renovation or building projects can be tricky; sometimes, you will need trial and error before you get everything right. So, to reduce the time and energy spent on this, you need to know what you're doing. Keep reading below to learn more!
How To Install Shiplap To Cinderblock
Installing shiplap to cinderblock will dramatically improve your interior, so it's no surprise that most people want to do this as a solution for their homes.
You may not have a smooth and even surface, and that's commonly the issue which is why gluing the shiplap directly is not ideal (although possible).
Here's how you can install shiplap to cinderblocks correctly:
Check Your Wall's Measurements
Use a measuring tape and note the wall's dimensions to cut the paneling and furring strips appropriately.
Clean The Surface
All renovation projects should start with you cleaning the surface. Make sure it's free of dirt and debris so there will be no awkward bumps, or worse, moisture, along the walls.
Build a Wooden Subwall
If you have a window in the area where you will be installing the sub-wall, apply lumber in the window first. After that, you will need to install the furring strips.
Make sure the furring strips are cut to measure. Start from the sides, as well as the top and bottom. Check and remove any potential obstructions.
Check out these wood strips on Amazon.
Install the vertical furring strips, ensuring they are the correct size. Install the strips every 12 inches. This may be done faster if you have someone measuring as you go.
Now, get your sub-wall (plywood). Cut it to the dimensions of your wall, and drill holes into where you intend to put the electrical wires and boxes. Add as many as necessary. After that, you can install the plywood.
Prepare Your Shiplap
Once you have an excellent shiplap material, cut it to size and use the back side of the material facing the front.
You should see the existing pattern when cutting; all you need to do is follow that. It's easier to install the shiplap without corner pieces since you can measure wall to wall.
However, if you intend to use corner pieces, you must cut them first and install them individually.
Install The Shiplap
Use a level and a pencil, then mark the sections where you will install the shiplap paneling. After that, nail each shiplap onto the flat sub-wall.
If you use a nail gun, a 1/2 nail should suffice, with the nail gun set on the lowest setting.
Fill The Nail Holes
Once you've successfully installed the shiplap, you can fill in the holes so your wall will have a smooth and seamless look.
- Apply the filler with a putty knife
- Clean off debris
- Wait for about 15-20 minutes
- Sand the surface with a 220-grit sanding block
Prime And Paint
Once you've filled in the holes and sanded the surface, you can apply a primer. However, ensure you only do this lightly since the paneling is not designed to handle multiple coats of paint.
If you accidentally put too much primer, you can sand the surface again. You can sand between priming regardless, as this often results in better coverage.
The best paint color would be neutrals since it makes the room feel airy and light and can go with any aesthetic.
How To Install Paneling Without Furring Strips
If your cinderblocks are smooth and even enough, you can install the paneling without firing strips and glue them to the concrete wall. Here's how you can do this.
Prepare The Surface
As always, remove all the debris and dust, and make sure there isn't any moisture build-up. Suppose there are little bumps here and there, even it all out.
Fill in cracks with caulking to prevent drafts or pests from gaining access.
Check out this sealer on Amazon here.
An even surface will ensure that the shiplap panels will be durable and have reliable structural integrity.
Seal Your Wall
Concrete walls can be prone to water damage, so seal the entire surface. You can quicken your pace using a paint roller or a garden spray.
If you don't seal the wall, it will be easily damaged, especially if you live in an area with a lot of humidity. Protect your investment by applying a good sealer.
Apply The Adhesive
The easiest adhesive is sold in tubes, widely available in stores or online. You can make the job easier and smoother if you use a caulk gun to apply them.
Can You Use Construction Adhesive?
It is not advisable to use an all-purpose construction adhesive when gluing shiplap to concrete walls since it can cause streaking on the panels later.
Install The Ship Lap Panels
Once the wall is prepped, you can install the shiplap panels. Here's what you should do.
- Cut the panels to size in a stable area. Ideally, it should be 3/4 inches shorter than the wall's height, but this can be optional.
- Sand and Prime the shiplap
- Apply paint, preferably with a neutral color
How Do You Repair Damaged Shiplap?
The shiplap can get damaged either because of external influences or because it was not installed correctly.
If the damage was a result of improper installation, call a contractor so they can rebuild the shiplap and give it better structural integrity.
If the damage was because of external forces, you could try fixing the shiplap yourself. It is best to do this when the humidity is low.
Here's what you can do:
- Prepare replacement boards, hammers, nails, and screwdrivers.
- Using a screwdriver, push the nails onto the timber until they are removed. You can also tap the nails from behind the board using a hammer.
- Using a block, tap out the board and slide it out.
- Install the replacement board. Ensure it is flush with the other panels, then nail it securely.
- Apply a sealer onto the boards to prevent moisture damage.
Check out this screwdriver on Amazon.
How Strong Is Shiplap Attached To Cinderblocks?
Shiplap attached to Cinderblocks is durable and strong as long as it is installed correctly. If it is properly primed and sealed, it will be safe from moisture damage and swelling.
This is why it's essential to fill in holes and ensure there aren't any cracks that could worsen in the future.
Repairs are just as, if not more, expensive than the initial building, so make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Is Peel And Stick Shiplap Worth Trying?
If you intend to use a peel-and-stick shiplap, install it on drywall. This type of shiplap has a sleek profile, making it easy to install.
However, it is relatively more expensive than using wood. It can cost up to $12 per square foot if you intend to install it in a large space.
It is best to use peel-and-stick shiplap on an accent wall or a small room. Living room areas will fare better with wood or a tongue and groove board.
See this peel-and-stick shiplap on Amazon.
To Wrap It Up
Installing a shiplap is a great way to make your space look polished and sleek, especially if it's a light or neutral color.
However, it is essential to install it correctly. If you're not confident about DIY, have a contractor install it.
And while we have you, check out these related articles:
Car Siding Vs. Shiplap: What's The Difference?
Shiplap Vs. Wainscoting Vs. Beadboard: What Are The Differences?