1. What Is Shiplap Coverage?

Shiplap coverage refers to the total surface area that shiplap boards will cover when installed, accounting for the overlap between boards. This calculation helps determine the amount of material needed for a project.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the shiplap coverage formula:

Where:

• \( Boards \) — Number of shiplap boards
• \( Width \) — Width of each board in inches
• \( Overlap \) — Overlap between boards in inches
• \( Length \) — Length of each board in feet

Explanation: The formula calculates the effective coverage of each board by subtracting the overlap from the width, multiplies by the number of boards and length, then converts to square feet by dividing by 144.

3. Importance Of Accurate Coverage Calculation

Details: Accurate coverage calculation is essential for proper material estimation, cost calculation, and minimizing waste in construction and renovation projects using shiplap.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of boards, width and overlap in inches, and length in feet. Ensure width is greater than overlap for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why subtract the overlap from the width?
A: The overlap represents the portion of each board that is hidden beneath the adjacent board, so only the exposed portion contributes to the coverage.

Q2: What is a typical shiplap overlap?
A: Typical overlaps range from 0.5 to 1 inch, depending on the specific shiplap profile and installation method.

Q3: Should I add extra for waste?
A: Yes, it's recommended to add 10-15% extra material to account for cutting waste, defects, and future repairs.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for other lap siding?
A: Yes, the same principle applies to other types of lap siding where boards overlap each other.

Q5: How do I convert the result to square meters?
A: Multiply the square footage result by 0.0929 to convert to square meters.