This project was built and designed by Jonny from Jonny Builds. He repurposed old stockade fence panels into a whitewashed shiplap wall that brings warmth, texture, and character to a living space.
This reclaimed wood project is budget-friendly, environmentally smart, and full of smart solutions. Jonny’s process shows how even weather-beaten wood can be transformed into a stunning design feature.
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Why Reclaimed Fence Wood Works
Old fence pickets often have a natural, weathered look that new lumber just can’t replicate. Jonny chose this material specifically for its aged patina, which adds depth and visual interest to any wall.
In addition to their charm, reclaimed fences are practical and sometimes free. Many homeowners replace fences regularly, and the old wood is often available through local listings or neighborhood giveaways.
Breaking Down the Fence Panels
Jonny starts by cutting off the damaged ends of each picket near the horizontal supports. This clears away rot-prone areas and leaves clean sections that are easier to work with.
After separating the pickets, they’re stacked flat to dry if wet. Damp wood can warp later, so drying it first is a key step before moving on.
To remove nails, Jonny uses a pneumatic nail remover that ejects embedded nails quickly. It’s a big time-saver compared to prying each nail out manually and prevents damage to the boards.
Planing and Trimming the Boards
Next, Jonny runs each board through a small planer. The goal isn’t to remove all the surface texture but to smooth the wood enough for clean installation and a consistent whitewashed finish.
He then uses a table saw to cut the boards to a consistent width. This step gives the wall that classic shiplap look with tight, uniform lines between each plank.
Applying the Whitewash Finish
Instead of traditional paint, Jonny uses a thinned-out white paint mixture to create a subtle whitewash. This allows the original wood grain and weathering to show through while still brightening the wall.
The whitewash is applied with a roller and dries quickly. One coat is usually enough, but the mix ratio can be adjusted for more or less opacity depending on the look you’re going for.
Preparing the Wall
For Jonny’s installation, some drywall around the fireplace had to be removed and replaced with thin plywood. This created a flat surface for mounting the shiplap boards.
Finding and marking the wall studs was the next step. Using a level and pencil, Jonny mapped out where to place his brad nails for strong attachment.
Mounting the Shiplap Boards
Installation begins with a randomly cut board on the bottom edge. Construction adhesive is applied to the back, and brad nails are used to hold each plank securely in place.
To maintain even gaps between boards, Jonny uses small metal spacers made from leftover fireplace project scraps. A nickel or coin works just as well to create consistent shadow lines.
Each board is cut and measured individually, especially around corners and edges. Jonny initially tried mitering corners but found they didn’t align well, so he switched to straight cuts for a cleaner, simpler finish.
Handling Imperfections and Outlets
Knot holes and blemishes in the wood add character, and Jonny highlights one of the largest by painting the wall behind it black for visual contrast. Other knots can be left natural or filled as preferred.
To work around electrical outlets, Jonny uses a smart masking tape method to transfer the location onto the back of the board. A quick jigsaw cut results in a perfect fit with minimal effort.
Adding Trim to Finish the Look
Once the wall is covered, Jonny installs trim pieces with beveled edges to frame the fireplace and hide seams. The trim is cut to size, painted to match, and secured with adhesive and brad nails.
At the bottom edge, where the steel fireplace surround made things tricky, he thins down the trim boards to align flush. This small adjustment makes the whole installation look seamless and intentional.
Why This Project Is Worth Doing
This feature wall is more than just a makeover—it’s a great example of how salvaged wood can be turned into something beautiful and lasting. It adds a warm, rustic layer to any space without the cost of new materials.
Jonny’s step-by-step approach makes the project accessible for anyone with basic tools and a little patience. And because every piece of reclaimed wood is different, no two walls will look exactly the same.
A DIY That Combines Style and Sustainability
From choosing eco-friendly materials to solving design challenges as they come up, Jonny’s approach blends creativity with practicality. It’s a great weekend project that results in a huge visual impact.
Whether you’re redoing a fireplace area or just want a statement wall for your living room or office, this build proves that with the right prep and a bit of sanding, old fence wood can become the highlight of your home.
Please support Jonny by checking out his website here: https://www.jonny-builds.com/.