Shiplapping a back

[Craig Zettle]

I need to shiplap the back of a cabinet and was wondering if there is anything special that needs to be done to the edges of the boards, or are they just flat and loose against each other for purposes of wood movement. Sorry if this is a stupid question, but I can't find any info at all on shiplapping.

[Mike Wenzloff]

Hi Craig. The answer is yes, there is no mechanical fastening to each other. If the boards are thin, I usually opt for t&g instead.

On either, I often use nails for the top/bottom/side of cabinet fasteners as this allows good movement.

Take care, Mike