Can I install over drywall?

Yes, install tongue and groove planks directly over existing drywall. Use furring strips screwed into joists for a solid, flat nailing surface.

Best wood for a ceiling?

Western Red Cedar and knotty pine are the most popular. Cedar offers warm tone and natural beauty. Knotty pine provides a classic cabin look at lower cost.

How do I prevent sagging?

Nail into joists or furring strips at every crossing point. Use construction adhesive for extra hold. Keep supports at 16 inches or less.

How to Install a Wood Ceiling | Lumberama

intermediate

1-3 days

$300 - $800

How to Install a Wood Ceiling: Tongue & Groove Plank Guide (2026)

Reviewed by Lumberama's Building Projects Team

|Last updated May 26, 2026

A wood plank ceiling instantly transforms any room with warmth, texture, and character that drywall cannot match. Whether you are going for a rustic cabin feel with knotty pine or a sleek modern look with clear cedar, installing tongue and groove planks is a straightforward project that delivers dramatic results.

Key Takeaways

A wood plank ceiling instantly transforms any room with warmth, texture, and character that drywall cannot match.
Whether you are going for a rustic cabin feel with knotty pine or a sleek modern look with clear cedar, installing tongue and groove planks is a straightforward project that delivers dramatic results.
Always acclimate wood for at least 48 hours to prevent gapping or buckling.
Leave a 1/4-inch expansion gap at all walls and cover with trim.
Angle blind nails at 45 degrees through the tongue base for invisible fastening.

Tools Needed

miter saw, pneumatic brad nailer or finish nailer, compressor, drill/driver, stud finder, chalk line, tape measure, laser level or 4-foot level, pry bar, safety glasses, dust mask

Materials List

1x6 tongue and groove planks (cedar, pine, or poplar), 1x3 furring strips (if needed), 2-inch brad nails or finish nails, construction adhesive, wood filler, stain or clear finish, polyurethane (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Acclimate the Wood

Stack planks in the installation room for at least 48-72 hours to adjust to the room's humidity.

Locate Joists and Install Furring Strips

Use stud finder to locate joists and snap chalk lines. If going over drywall, install 1x3 furring strips perpendicular to plank direction at 16-inch centers.

Plan Layout and Start First Row

Decide plank direction (perpendicular to joists is strongest). Snap a chalk line for first row. Start along the most visible wall with groove facing wall.

Install Subsequent Rows

Engage tongue into groove of previous row. Blind-nail through tongue at 45 degrees at each joist or furring strip. Stagger end joints by at least 12 inches.

Handle Obstacles and Cuts

Measure and cut around light fixtures, vents, and ceiling fans. Use jigsaw for curved cuts. Pre-drill near board ends.

Install Final Row and Finish

Rip last row to width if needed. Face-nail and fill holes. Apply stain or finish. Install trim molding around perimeter.

Recommended Species

Western Red Cedar, Knotty Pine, Clear Pine, Poplar, White Oak

Recommended Sizes

1x6 tongue and groove planks, 1x3 furring strips

Pro Tips

Always acclimate wood for at least 48 hours to prevent gapping or buckling. Leave a 1/4-inch expansion gap at all walls and cover with trim. Angle blind nails at 45 degrees through the tongue base for invisible fastening. Alternate boards from two open boxes to blend color and grain variation.