How to Patch Shiplap Paneling

Get damaged shiplap paneling back into ship shape with this project.

Materials and Tools:

workbench
spring clamps
jigsaw
power drill
spade bit
hammer
nail punch
utility knife
screwdriver
combination square
carpenter’s square
tape measure
circular saw
pry bar
cat’s paw
pencil
safety glasses
recycled shiplap panels
circuit-breaker cover
nails
wood shims

Steps:

1. Wearing safety glasses, pry off any trim blocking access to the panels using a pry bar and hammer. Be careful not to break your trim.

2. Remove panels adjacent to the opening so you can fit a replacement. Begin prying out the nails holding in the old tongue-and-groove panels. Slip out the piece and repeat as often as needed.

3. Measure the size of the opening for replacement panels. If there’s an outlet or other electrical fitting, measure the exact position so you can make a cutout in your replacement piece.

4. Transfer the dimensions onto new paneling piece, using a carpenter’s square to mark the cutout for the electrical box. Drill holes inside the cutout area with a paddle bit. Insert the blade of a jigsaw through the holes to cut out the area.

5. Cut the remaining pieces to length with a circular saw.

6. Slide replacement pieces into place, making sure the tongue-and-groove pieces fit together tightly.

7. Drill pilot holes and secure each piece as you go by partially driving in nails. Once everything fits back together, drive the nails all the way in and set below the surface with a nail set.

8. Reattach trim pieces. Use a shim if necessary to get a good fit between the trim and the paneling.

9. Cover the electrical box by screwing on the plate.