Build Recap

The Process

The Design 

  This project inspiration was from a previous project that I had done. The vertical shiplap give the paneling look with the real look and feel of wood, versus the typical paneling that comes in ¼” sheets these days. We had the plan to keep the design below the outlets and since the customer was replacing the vanity and toilet it made the most sense to have those pieces removed before beginning the project. The top rail gives us a top to the shiplap and covers the end grain. 

The Build

The build began with pre-painting the shiplap and railing. This made the install much quicker. The first step once onsite was to mark the top of the railing all the way around the bathroom, making sure all sides were level with each other. Once all the markings are on the wall I cut the top rail pieces starting on the left side and working my way around the walls. It is also important to double check the pieces as I install them to make sure we are still level. 

With the railings installed around the room, I begin cutting the shiplap. I like to batch cut pieces here, because apart from some areas of the floor that aren’t level all the pieces should be the same length. Once all of the pieces are cut I work the pieces around the room, using a nail gun to nail attach them to the wall. I like to shoot the nails in at different angles, because not all pieces will be hitting studs. By shooting the nails in at opposite angles it makes it harder for the pieces to pull off the wall. I also shoot a few extra nails through the main portion of the shiplap to help it grip, those nails will be filled in later. The 90 degree corners will get a simple butt joint that will be caulked , while the 45 degree angles will get a 22.5 degree cut for a mitered joint. 

I then use a jig saw to cut around the pipes trying to get as close as possible. The key thing to do when measuring to mark where to cut is because there is a gap on the shiplap I measure off of the top of the shiplap, then when transferring it to the piece I will be cutting I take that measurement from the piece where the shiplap becomes thick. You want to make sure you are measuring from where the boards will make contact. After finishing the shiplap I come back and install quarter round along the base of the piece to give it a finished look. Once this is complete the last thing to do is to caulk everything, fill nail holes, and add any touchup paint. This is a simple way to quickly update a bathroom and adds character and texture to the space. It is important to use a quality paint that will seal the wood completely. I also like to use PVC molding for the quarter round which is completely waterproof.

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