Shiplap, square edges and tongue and groove are various methods used in laying flooring, paneling, siding and the construction of barns and other outdoor buildings. Shiplap and tongue and groove joints are used to bring the flooring together to interlock strips or planks of wood or laminate together. While each method is different, many different types of materials are used. Square edges often involve careful measuring and a smooth sub flooring for a more uniformed look.
The shiplap joint is used for siding or flooring. It consists of a square rabbet edge and is one of the most basic 1/2″ x 1/2″ joints used in carpentry. While knotty pine is one of the most popular materials, oak, maple, fir and cedar are also used. Shiplap is a type of joint that creates a shadow line effect when the edges overlap. This method is an excellent way to add durability to a floor. It gives the finished product a tight seal and is relatively maintenance free. While shiplap is used to create a tight uniform look in flooring, it is also used horizontally or vertically in siding and paneling. Today shiplap flooring and siding is often kiln dried so there is no need to worry about warping, but years ago the boards were rough cut and left outside in the sun to dry.
The tongue and groove joint is used to interlock two boards and is also used in flooring, siding and paneling. This method allows two flat surfaces to be joined together to construct a tight smooth finish. Most flooring material comes already factory made but there are carpenters who prefer to construct the tongue and groove joint themselves using a table saw, spindle molder and hand planes. When tongue and groove joints are used for flooring the boards most typically used are the more expensive types of wood, although tongue and groove joints are also used when laying a plywood subflooring.
Square edges are often used in floating floors, either of wood or laminate. The material can be locked together using the tongue and groove method and is held down by the edging along the wall. Careful measurements are taken to ensure a tight fit and any leftover material around the outside edge must be trimmed. Use of square edges results in a more contemporary look. Other types of edges include a beveled edge and an eased edge. Both are more popular than a square edge because they hide irregularities in the floor. With a square edge, the material used must meet perfectly at each edge when installed. The beveled edge offers a grooved distinctive more formal look, while the eased edge is slightly beveled and creates an informal country look.