9 Stunning Shiplap Backsplash Kitchen Ideas For 2025

Q: Can you use shiplap as a backsplash in a kitchen?

Yes, you can absolutely use shiplap as a kitchen backsplash. The critical steps are proper sealing and paint. Use a durable, scrubbable paint like Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel and caulk all seams and edges to protect the wood from moisture. For areas with heavy water use, consider waterproof PVC shiplap.

Q: Is shiplap backsplash cheaper than tile?

Yes, shiplap is significantly cheaper than most tile options. According to Angi, shiplap installation averages $2.50 to $7 per square foot. In contrast, ceramic tile installation can average $25 per square foot or more. This cost difference makes shiplap an excellent choice for a budget-friendly kitchen renovation with high visual impact.

Q: What is the trend in kitchen backsplash in 2025?

In 2025, kitchen backsplash trends are moving towards texture and natural materials. While full-slab quartz remains a high-end choice, materials that add warmth and character, like Zellige tiles and vertical shiplap, are very popular. Shiplap fits this trend perfectly by offering subtle texture and a customizable look that can be painted to match any style.

Thinking about adding that gorgeous, textured shiplap look to your kitchen but get a knot in your stomach at the thought of wood behind your sink? You’ve seen the stunning farmhouse and coastal kitchens all over Pinterest, and the warm, inviting character of a shiplap backsplash is calling your name. It seems like the perfect way to add personality and style without the cold, hard feel of tile.

But then, the practical worries creep in. Can wood really handle the splashes from washing dishes, the grease from the stove, and the everyday messes of a busy kitchen? You’re picturing warped boards, stained surfaces, and a cleaning nightmare. The fear of making a costly and impractical design choice is real, and it’s holding you back from creating the kitchen of your dreams.

Rest assured, a shiplap backsplash is an absolutely beautiful and practical choice for a kitchen when installed and sealed correctly. The key to a long-lasting and easy-to-clean shiplap backsplash is using the right materials from the start. By choosing a high-quality, durable paint, properly sealing all the edges, and considering modern waterproof alternatives like PVC shiplap for high-moisture zones, you can confidently get the stylish look you love without sacrificing durability.

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Is Shiplap Really a Good Idea for a Kitchen Backsplash?

Yes, you can absolutely use shiplap as a backsplash in a kitchen with the right preparation. The key to success lies in creating a durable, water-resistant surface that can stand up to the demands of a kitchen. This involves using a high-quality, scrubbable paint, like a urethane trim enamel, and meticulously sealing all seams where the shiplap meets the countertops and walls with waterproof caulk. For high-splash zones like the area directly behind the sink, waterproof PVC shiplap is an excellent, worry-free alternative that provides the same aesthetic with superior moisture protection.

While traditional tile is known for being impervious to water, modern paint and sealant technologies have made wood backsplashes a viable and stylish option. The concern over heat behind the stove is also manageable. Most building codes require a specific clearance between a cooktop and a combustible surface, which is often addressed by installing a non-combustible panel (like stainless steel or a small tile inset) directly behind the range. For most of the backsplash area, a properly painted and sealed shiplap installation is perfectly safe and durable.

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The Pros and Cons: Shiplap vs. Tile Backsplash

Shiplap is significantly cheaper than tile, making it a fantastic budget-friendly choice for a high-impact kitchen update. According to data from Angi, a shiplap installation costs between $2.50 and $7 per square foot. In contrast, a traditional ceramic tile backsplash averages around $25 per square foot for materials and installation. This cost savings, especially for DIYers, makes shiplap an incredibly attractive alternative.

Here’s a quick breakdown of how they compare:

Shiplap Backsplash:

Cost: Highly budget-friendly. The materials are affordable, and its straightforward installation process makes it an ideal DIY project, saving you on labor costs.
Installation: DIY-friendly. Cutting and nailing shiplap boards is much simpler for a homeowner than the process of setting, grouting, and sealing tile.
Maintenance: Requires a durable, wipeable paint finish. Must be properly caulked along the countertop to prevent water intrusion. Scratches may require paint touch-ups over time.
Style Versatility: Extremely versatile. Can be painted any color and installed horizontally or vertically to suit modern farmhouse, coastal, minimalist, or rustic styles.

Tile Backsplash:

Cost: Higher initial investment. Both materials and professional labor costs are significantly more than shiplap.
Installation: More complex. Typically requires a professional for a clean, long-lasting installation, involving thin-set mortar, precise cuts, and grouting.
Maintenance: Very durable and waterproof. Grout lines can stain over time and may require periodic deep cleaning or sealing.
Style Versatility: Endless options in color, pattern, and material (ceramic, quartz, porcelain), but the chosen look is permanent and costly to change.

9 Stunning Shiplap Backsplash Kitchen Ideas for 2025

Ready for some inspiration? A shiplap backsplash is a design chameleon, capable of transforming a kitchen into anything from a cozy farmhouse haven to a sleek modern space. We’ve curated a collection of nine stunning and diverse ideas that prove just how versatile this material can be. Each idea comes with a simple “get the look” guide to show you how to bring these beautiful designs into your own home.

1. The Classic Modern Farmhouse

This is the look that made shiplap famous, and for good reason. It’s clean, timeless, and effortlessly bright. The combination of crisp white horizontal shiplap with simple Shaker cabinets creates a backdrop that is both homey and sophisticated.

Materials Needed: Horizontal shiplap boards, high-quality white semi-gloss or satin paint (e.g., Sherwin Williams Pure White), matte black cabinet pulls, butcher block or light quartz countertop, wood for floating shelves.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Install shiplap boards horizontally, starting from the countertop and working your way up to the bottom of the upper cabinets.
2. Paint the shiplap a crisp, clean white to match your Shaker-style cabinets, creating a seamless and expansive look.
3. Install simple matte black hardware on all cabinets and drawers to introduce a striking, modern contrast.
4. Complete the aesthetic with warm wood floating shelves, perfect for displaying neutral-toned dishes and a touch of greenery.

Pro-Tip: For an authentic look, ensure a consistent “nickel gap” between your shiplap boards. Use a nickel as a spacer during installation if your boards aren’t self-spacing.

Pin this timeless look to your “Dream Farmhouse Kitchen” board!

2. Go Vertical for a Height-Boosting Effect

In a smaller kitchen or one with lower ceilings, installing shiplap vertically is a brilliant design trick. The strong vertical lines draw the eye upward, creating the illusion of height and making the entire space feel more open and airy.

Materials Needed: Vertical shiplap boards, paint in a light color (off-white, light gray, or a soft sage green), brad nailer, jigsaw for outlet cutouts, matching trim for edges.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Measure the wall height from your countertop to the ceiling. Cut your vertical shiplap boards to this length.
2. Begin installing the boards vertically from one corner, using a level to ensure the first board is perfectly plumb.
3. For maximum impact, extend the shiplap all the way to the ceiling, especially on walls with open shelving.
4. Choose a light, airy paint color to reflect more light and enhance the feeling of spaciousness.

Lesson Learned: Painting the grooves of the shiplap boards before installation saves a tremendous amount of time and ensures a professional finish.

Love this space-saving trick? Share it on Pinterest!

3. Moody & Modern with Dark Shiplap

Move over, white shiplap. A backsplash painted in a deep, dramatic color like charcoal gray, black, or rich forest green can create a stunningly sophisticated and modern kitchen. This bold choice adds depth and character, turning your backsplash into a true focal point.

Materials Needed: Shiplap boards, high-adhesion primer, durable paint in a dark color (e.g., Tricorn Black, Iron Ore, Ripe Olive), foam roller for a smooth finish, brass or gold hardware.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Prime your shiplap boards thoroughly. This is a crucial step to ensure rich, even coverage with a dark color.
2. Apply at least two coats of your chosen dark paint using a foam roller to achieve a streak-free, contemporary matte or eggshell finish.
3. Install the shiplap either horizontally for a widening effect or vertically to add height.
4. Balance the darkness by pairing the backsplash with a light countertop (like marble-look quartz) and warm metallic hardware in gold or brass to add a touch of luxury.

Pro-Tip: Under-cabinet LED lighting is essential with a dark backsplash. It not only provides crucial task lighting but also highlights the texture of the shiplap and prevents the counter from feeling dark.

Dare to go dark? Save this moody kitchen inspo!

4. The Warmth of Natural Wood Shiplap

For a dose of rustic charm and organic texture, nothing beats the beauty of natural wood. A stained shiplap backsplash made from pine, cedar, or oak can bring incredible warmth to an otherwise all-white or neutral kitchen, acting as a beautiful and grounding feature.

Materials Needed: Natural wood shiplap boards (e.g., pine or cedar), wood stain of your choice, a clear matte or satin water-based polyurethane sealant, natural bristle brush for staining.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Lightly sand the shiplap boards with fine-grit sandpaper to open up the wood grain for staining.
2. Apply the wood stain evenly with a brush or rag, wiping away any excess with a clean cloth. Let it dry completely.
3. Apply 2-3 coats of a clear, water-based polyurethane to seal and protect the wood from kitchen splashes. A matte finish will preserve the natural look.
4. Install the boards in an all-white kitchen to create a striking, warm focal point.

Pro-Tip: Always test your stain on a scrap piece of the same shiplap before applying it to all your boards. The final color can vary significantly depending on the wood species.

Bring warmth to your kitchen! Save this natural wood idea.

5. Breezy & Bright Coastal Kitchen

Capture the light and airy feel of a seaside cottage with a coastal-inspired shiplap backsplash. Vertical boards painted in soft, watery hues like seafoam green, misty blue, or a sandy off-white create a relaxed and refreshing atmosphere perfect for a beach house or anyone who loves that breezy vibe.

Materials Needed: Vertical shiplap boards, paint in a coastal shade (e.g., Sherwin Williams Sea Salt), brushed nickel or chrome hardware, light-colored countertops.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Install shiplap vertically to evoke the feeling of classic coastal paneling found in beach homes.
2. Paint the shiplap a soft off-white or a light, misty blue-green to create a bright and breezy backdrop.
3. Pair the backsplash with light grey or navy blue base cabinets for a timeless coastal two-tone look.
4. Finish with hardware in cool metallic tones like brushed nickel or chrome to complete the clean, airy feel.

Lesson Learned: For a subtle coastal vibe, paint the shiplap the same color as the upper walls but in a higher sheen (like satin or semi-gloss). This adds texture without introducing a new color, creating a sophisticated, tone-on-tone look.

Get the beach house look! Pin this coastal kitchen idea.

6. Sleek & Simple with Horizontal Lines

Shiplap isn’t just for farmhouse kitchens. When painted in a sophisticated neutral and paired with minimalist elements, it can look incredibly modern and chic. The clean, repeating horizontal lines add subtle texture and architectural interest without overwhelming a contemporary space.

Materials Needed: Horizontal shiplap boards, paint in a sophisticated neutral (e.g., Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter), modern cabinet hardware (or handleless cabinets), a contour gauge for precise cuts.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Choose shiplap boards with clean, sharp lines and minimal wood grain for a more modern appearance.
2. Install the boards horizontally, taking care to ensure perfectly level lines and tight, consistent seams.
3. Create a cohesive, minimalist color palette by painting the shiplap, cabinets, and walls in similar neutral tones.
4. Pair the backsplash with sleek, flat-panel cabinets and a simple, unadorned countertop like concrete or solid-surface quartz.

Pro-Tip: Use paintable outlet covers that match your shiplap paint color. This small detail helps the outlets blend in seamlessly and maintains the clean, uninterrupted horizontal lines crucial for a minimalist aesthetic.

Shiplap isn’t just for farmhouses. Save this modern look!

7. The Worry-Free Waterproof PVC Option

If you love the look of shiplap but can’t shake the worry about water damage, PVC shiplap is the perfect solution. Made from durable vinyl, it’s 100% waterproof, mold-resistant, and incredibly easy to clean, making it ideal for the high-splash zone behind a kitchen sink.

Materials Needed: PVC shiplap planks, construction adhesive, brad nailer (optional), caulk for seams.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Ensure the wall is clean and dry. One major benefit is that PVC shiplap can often be installed directly over existing tile.
2. Measure and cut the PVC planks using a miter saw or a fine-toothed hand saw; it cuts much more easily and cleanly than wood.
3. Apply a bead of strong construction adhesive to the back of each plank and press it firmly to the wall. Use a few brad nails for extra security if desired.
4. Seal all edges and seams with a bead of waterproof kitchen-and-bath caulk for a completely watertight and seamless finish.

Lesson Learned: While PVC shiplap is waterproof, it’s not heat-proof. Never install it directly behind a stove or range where it will be exposed to high heat. Use a stainless steel or tile panel in that specific area for safety.

Want a worry-free backsplash? Pin this waterproof solution!

8. English Country Charm with a Peg Rail

Combine form and function by integrating a classic peg rail into your shiplap backsplash. This adds a layer of English country or Shaker-style charm while providing valuable, easy-access storage for mugs, utensils, and cutting boards.

Materials Needed: Shiplap boards, pre-made wood peg rail or shaker pegs and a 1×4 board, wood glue, paint in a soft, muted color.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Install your shiplap backsplash, stopping about 4-6 inches below your upper cabinets to leave space for the rail.
2. Install a 1×4 board in the gap, securing it firmly into the wall studs for maximum strength.
3. Drill holes into the 1×4 board and install shaker pegs, securing each one with a bit of wood glue.
4. Paint the shiplap and the peg rail the same color (a creamy white or muted green works beautifully) for a cohesive, built-in look.
5. Hang your favorite mugs, small copper pots, and bundles of herbs for a display that is both beautiful and functional.

Pro-Tip: For maximum strength, install the peg rail board directly into wall studs. This will ensure it can hold the weight of heavier items like cast iron pans or multiple mugs without pulling away from the wall.

Add charm and storage! Save this peg rail idea.

9. The Best of Both Worlds: Shiplap and Tile

Why choose one when you can have both? Pairing a short tile backsplash with shiplap above it offers a custom, high-end look that combines the durability of tile with the warmth of wood. This is a perfect way to add a pop of pattern while keeping the overall feel of the kitchen soft and inviting.

Materials Needed: Shiplap boards, your choice of tile (e.g., colorful subway tile or patterned cement tile), tile adhesive, grout, a small wood ledge or trim piece.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Install your chosen tile on the lower portion of the backsplash, typically extending 6-12 inches up from the countertop. This puts the most durable, waterproof material in the highest splash zone.
2. Install a small wood ledge or decorative trim piece along the top edge of the tile. This creates a clean, intentional transition between the two materials.
3. Install horizontal shiplap from the top of the ledge up to the bottom of the upper cabinets.
4. Paint the shiplap a neutral color that complements both the tile and your cabinets for a cohesive look.

Pro-Tip: Choose your tile first, as it will be the “star” of the show. Pull a neutral color from the tile pattern to use for your shiplap paint. This ensures the two materials look intentional and cohesive rather than disjointed.

Can’t decide? Why not use both! Pin this mixed-material idea.

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to a Shiplap Backsplash

Feeling inspired? Here are the most important points to remember as you plan your shiplap backsplash project:

Affordability is Key: Shiplap is significantly more budget-friendly than tile, costing as little as $2.50 per sq/ft compared to tile’s average of $25.
Sealing is Non-Negotiable: To protect against moisture, you must use a high-quality, durable paint (like a urethane enamel) and caulk all seams where the boards meet the counter.
Go Vertical for Height: Installing shiplap vertically draws the eye upward, making your kitchen ceilings appear taller—a great trick for smaller spaces.
Consider Waterproof PVC: For a completely worry-free option, especially behind a sink, waterproof PVC shiplap offers the same look with zero risk of water damage.
Style is Versatile: Shiplap works in nearly any kitchen style, from modern farmhouse and coastal to sleek minimalist and moody modern, depending on its orientation and color.

Final Thoughts

A shiplap backsplash is more than just a trend; it’s a smart, stylish, and affordable way to bring character and warmth into the heart of your home. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer looking for a budget-friendly weekend project or you’re planning a full-scale renovation, shiplap offers unmatched versatility.

By choosing the right materials, sealing it properly, and picking a style that speaks to you, you can create a beautiful and durable backsplash that you’ll love for years to come. It proves that you don’t have to choose between style and practicality—you can have both.

Which of these shiplap ideas inspired you the most? Let me know in the comments below

9 Stunning Shiplap Backsplash Kitchen Ideas for 2025

Is Shiplap Really a Good Idea for a Kitchen Backsplash?

The Pros and Cons: Shiplap vs. Tile Backsplash