Putting Flooring on a Wall or Ceiling? Is it Wrong??

*Character Teak Ceiling Prefinished & End-Matched – Buffalo, New York*

When it comes to adding character and warmth to interior and exterior spaces, wood walls and wood ceilings are an excellent choice. At AdvantageLumber.com, we offer a wide range of high-quality wood options suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. From the classic appeal of traditional profiles like shiplap and v-groove to the seamless, contemporary look of prefinished interior flooring, we provide an array of choices to suit any design style. In this post, we’ll walk through the different wood species available, discuss the benefits of various profiles, and explore how each option creates a unique aesthetic.

Prefinished hickory flooring used on a wall in a restaurant

1. Wood Species for Interior and Exterior Use

AdvantageLumber.com carries a diverse selection of wood species, each with unique properties suited to either Interior or exterior applications:

Ipe: Renowned for its incredible durability and resistance to weather, Ipe is ideal for both indoor and outdoor installations. Its rich, dark color and tight grain make it a favorite for creating an upscale, polished look. In-stock wood is typically used in exterior applications. We can provide material which is kiln-dried to a lower moisture content for interior use.
Cumaru: With a warm, golden-brown hue and excellent durability, Cumaru works beautifully for walls and ceilings. It’s particularly popular for exterior applications where strength and longevity are priorities. In-stock wood is typically used in exterior applications. We can provide material which is kiln-dried to a lower moisture content for interior use.
Garapa: Lighter in color, Garapa offers a warm, natural look that complements a variety of design schemes. It performs well both indoors and outdoors, thanks to its resistance to rot and insects. In-stock wood is typically used in exterior applications. We can provide material which is kiln-dried to a lower moisture content for interior use..
Tigerwood: Known for its exotic grain and striking patterns, Tigerwood adds visual intrigue to any space. Its durability and color variation make it an attractive choice for both interior and exterior projects. In-stock wood is typically used in exterior applications. We can provide material which is kiln-dried to a lower moisture content for interior use.
Plantation Teak: Our teak is plantation grown for a truly renewable resource. Naturally resistant to decay and moisture, Teak is a versatile option often used indoors for a warm, rustic feel or outdoors for its natural weather resistance.
Pecky Bolivian Walnut: We have a wide range of pecky wood offerings. These Pecky Woods are flecked with the characteristic dark spots and streaks found typically in pecky cypress lumber

Pecky Bolivian Walnut Ceiling – *Boston, New York*

2. Profiles Available: Shiplap, V-Groove, Nickel Gap, and Prefinished Interior Flooring

The profile of a wood wall or ceiling not only affects its appearance but also plays a role in the function and performance of the installation. Here are the main profiles offered by AdvantageLumber.com:

Shiplap: Known for its classic overlapping edge, shiplap provides a shadow line that gives walls and ceilings a timeless look. The shadow line helps to mask slight gaps that can form due to natural wood expansion and contraction, ensuring a clean and uniform appearance over time.
V-Groove: With a beveled edge that forms a subtle “V” shape where the boards meet, v-groove wood paneling creates a distinct shadow line. This profile adds depth and texture to surfaces, making it a popular choice for traditional or farmhouse-inspired interiors and exteriors.
Nickel Gap T&G: This variant of the T&G profile has a small gap between each board, creating a crisp, uniform shadow line that complements both modern and rustic designs. The nickel gap allows for minor movement in the wood while preserving a consistent look, making it perfect for applications prone to seasonal changes in humidity.
Square Edge Boards: Looking for an affordable way to elevate your ceiling design? Using square edge boards can be a cost-effective alternative, especially when installed over black-painted plywood. This clever setup prevents any unsightly gaps from revealing insulation or what’s behind the boards, even as they expand and contract. Our square edge boards are available in a wide variety of species, which add a natural touch to any space. Contact us today for a volume discount, and check out our full board program to find the perfect solution for your project. Explore our board program.
Prefinished Interior Flooring: While typically used for floors, prefinished flooring can also be installed as wall or ceiling paneling. The boards have a micro-beveled edge, which creates a seamless, modern look with little to no shadow line. This sleek appearance works well for contemporary spaces but may not offer the traditional aesthetic that some homeowners desire. Unlike shiplap or v-groove profiles, prefinished flooring lacks a shadow line, meaning it won’t hide natural wood gaps as effectively.

Square edge oak boards used as a ceiling.

3. Choosing the Right Profile for Your Space

The shadow line provided by profiles like shiplap, v-groove, and nickel gap is more than just a design feature—it also serves a functional purpose. As wood expands and contracts with humidity and temperature changes, minor gaps can appear between boards. Profiles designed specifically for walls and ceilings allow for this natural movement without compromising the visual appeal, making them ideal for installations where traditional style and durability are paramount.

On the other hand, prefinished interior flooring offers a clean, modern look for walls and ceilings, but may not be the best choice if you want the added shadow line to cover minor gaps. This option is better suited for spaces where you want a seamless, contemporary aesthetic and don’t anticipate significant expansion or contraction issues.

4. Applications for Interior and Exterior Spaces

Whether used indoors or outdoors, AdvantageLumber.com’s wood wall and ceiling products enhance any space with natural beauty and texture. Here are a few ways our customers are using these products:

Indoor Accent Walls: Transform any room with a wood accent wall. Shiplap or v-groove creates a traditional, cozy ambiance, while prefinished flooring offers a streamlined, modern appeal.
Ceilings with Character: Wood ceilings are making a comeback, with shiplap and v-groove profiles adding a hint of vintage charm. Using cedar or a warm hardwood species can enhance the overall feel of the space, creating a cozy, inviting environment.
Exterior Siding and Soffits: For outdoor applications, Ipe and Cumaru in shiplap or v-groove profiles provide weather resistance with a beautiful, natural look. The shadow lines also help to maintain a polished appearance despite the effects of weather exposure.

Conclusion

With a variety of wood species and profiles to choose from, AdvantageLumber.com offers endless possibilities for wood wall and ceiling treatments, both indoors and out. Whether you’re seeking a rustic shiplap look or a sleek, seamless aesthetic with prefinished flooring, we have options to bring your design vision to life. Our wood products are crafted to stand the test of time, enhancing your spaces with enduring natural beauty.

Explore our selection to find the perfect match for your project. The AdvantageLumber.com team is always here to help you select the best wood species, profile, and finish for your walls and ceilings, ensuring your project exceeds expectations.