Shiplap

Term from Carpentry industry explained for recruiters

Shiplap is a popular type of wooden board siding used in both interior and exterior construction. When people mention shiplap in their resumes, they're referring to a specific style of wooden boards that have special grooves cut into their edges, allowing them to fit together tightly and create a characteristic overlapping pattern. It became especially popular in home renovation and interior design thanks to TV shows like "Fixer Upper." When carpenters or construction workers list shiplap experience, it shows they know how to install decorative wall treatments and have experience with detailed finish carpentry work.

Examples in Resumes

Installed Shiplap in over 20 residential renovation projects

Expertly mounted Shiplap and Ship Lap wall treatments for custom home interiors

Led a team of 3 carpenters in Shiplap installation for historic building restoration

Typical job title: "Carpenters"

Also try searching for:

Finish Carpenter Interior Carpenter Renovation Specialist Construction Worker Home Improvement Specialist Trim Carpenter Custom Carpenter

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you manage a large shiplap installation project with multiple workers?

Expected Answer: A senior carpenter should discuss project planning, material ordering, team coordination, quality control, and ensuring consistent installation across different areas. They should mention moisture considerations and proper acclimation of materials.

Q: What challenges have you faced with shiplap installations and how did you overcome them?

Expected Answer: Should describe specific problem-solving experiences, such as dealing with uneven walls, working around fixtures, managing wood expansion, and maintaining consistent spacing. Should demonstrate leadership in teaching others.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What methods do you use to ensure proper spacing and level installation of shiplap?

Expected Answer: Should explain using spacers, level checking, planning around outlets and windows, and proper cutting techniques. Should mention moisture considerations and wood movement.

Q: How do you handle corners and edges when installing shiplap?

Expected Answer: Should describe different corner finishing options, proper cutting angles, using trim pieces, and ensuring clean, professional-looking transitions.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is shiplap and how is it different from regular wooden boards?

Expected Answer: Should explain that shiplap has overlapping joints, understand basic installation concepts, and know the common uses in construction and decoration.

Q: What basic tools are needed for shiplap installation?

Expected Answer: Should list essential tools like level, saw, nail gun, measuring tape, and spacing tools, and explain their basic uses in installation.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic tool operation
  • Simple shiplap installation
  • Measuring and cutting
  • Basic safety procedures

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex installation patterns
  • Working around fixtures
  • Material estimation
  • Team coordination

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management
  • Custom designs and patterns
  • Training and supervision
  • Complex problem-solving

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of proper wood acclimation
  • Unfamiliarity with basic carpentry tools
  • Lack of attention to detail in spacing and alignment
  • No understanding of moisture considerations