Shiplap Shed

Premium quality shed with interlocking shiplap cladding for superior weather protection

Roof Type Apex (A-Frame)

Default Pitch 17.5°

Typical Size 2.4m x 1.8m

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Overview

The shiplap shed represents a step up in quality from basic overlap construction. Featuring interlocking rebated boards, shiplap cladding provides superior weather protection and a more refined appearance.

Key Features

Shiplap boards have a rebate (L-shaped cut) along each edge that allows adjacent boards to interlock. This creates a tighter seal against the elements and prevents water from penetrating the joints, even in driving rain.

History & Design

Shiplap cladding was originally developed for boat building (hence the "ship" in the name) and has been adapted for quality garden buildings where weather resistance is important.

When to Choose a Shiplap Shed

Choose a shiplap shed when you need:

Superior weather resistance for valuable contents
A more refined appearance than overlap
Long-term durability with less maintenance
Storage for items sensitive to moisture
A building you'll use frequently and see daily

Shiplap is the right choice when the contents are worth protecting properly, or when you want a shed that looks good for years without constant maintenance.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

Excellent weather resistance
Interlocking boards prevent water ingress
Attractive, refined appearance
Long-lasting with good maintenance
Good value for quality

Considerations

Higher cost than overlap
Heavier than overlap sheds
Requires proper installation
Individual boards harder to replace

Typical Uses

Primary Uses

Quality garden storage
Power tool storage
Bicycle storage
Garden furniture storage

Also Suitable For

Light workshop use
Photography dark room
Garden office (basic)
Hobby room

Sizing Guide

Use Case	Recommended Size	Floor Area
Small	1500mm x 1200mm	1.80 m²
Standard	2400mm x 1800mm	4.32 m²

Custom sizes? Use our shed builder to generate plans for any dimensions within the permitted range.

Construction Notes

Foundation

Shiplap sheds warrant a solid foundation. Bearer and joist systems work well, but concrete is preferred for sheds over 8x6ft.

Framing

Standard 38x89mm CLS framing at 600mm centres suits most shiplap sheds. Use 400mm centres for heavy-duty use.

Roofing

Quality shiplap sheds deserve quality roofing. Consider EPDM rubber or quality felt rather than budget mineral felt.

Special Considerations

The interlocking boards require careful installation. Start from the bottom and ensure each board fully engages with the one below before fixing.

Example Builds

Standard Configuration

2400mm x 1800mm

A typical Shiplap Shed build suitable for most requirements.

Standard cladding
Single door
1 window

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Frequently Asked Questions

In most cases, garden sheds are permitted development and don't require planning permission. However, restrictions apply: the shed must be single storey with maximum eaves height of 2.5m, maximum overall height of 4m (for dual-pitched roofs) or 3m (for any other roof), and must not cover more than 50% of the curtilage. Sheds must not be forward of the principal elevation. Listed buildings and conservation areas have additional restrictions. Always check with your local planning authority if in doubt.

Options include concrete slabs, paving slabs, pressure-treated bearer and joist systems, or adjustable post supports. Concrete provides the most stable base for larger sheds, while bearer systems are quick to install and allow airflow beneath the floor. The key requirements are: level, stable, and dry with adequate drainage around the perimeter.

A well-built and maintained shed can last 15-25+ years. Key factors are: quality of original construction, adequacy of foundations, quality of timber treatment, regular maintenance (retreating cladding, checking for rot), and roof condition. Budget sheds with minimal maintenance may only last 5-10 years.

Ideally, treat all surfaces before assembly - this ensures hidden faces are protected. Pay special attention to cut ends, which are most vulnerable to moisture. After construction, apply treatment to all accessible exterior surfaces annually or as the product recommends.

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