What Is a Shiplap Edge

Shiplap boards are square edge boards with a rabbeted edged. This rabbeted edge allows the boards to overlap and fit together snuggly with almost no gaps.

What does shiplap edge mean?

: wooden sheathing in which the boards are rabbeted so that the edges of each board lap over the edges of adjacent boards to make a flush joint.

What exactly is shiplap?

A little light internet research reveals that shiplap is a kind of wooden board that’s often used for constructing sheds, barns, and other rustic buildings. Traditional shiplap has a rabbet (or groove) cut into the top and bottom, which allows the pieces to fit together snugly, forming a tight seal.