How can i whitewash shiplap that has been installed without caulking?

You don't have to caulk shiplap, the gaps are supposed to be there in between the boards. You can use primer (Kilz is my favorite) and then paint. If you want the whitewash look, do a dry brushing (very little primer and paint on your brush). And sanding it with a palm sander will give you a rustic look.

Using water based wall paint, thinned slightly, apply to the shiplap using a wide brush, then wipe with a clean rag removing paint until your desired look is achieved. Work in manageable sections trying not to overlap the dry edges. Keep in mind that the walls will look different when completely dry and it's always easier to apply a second coat than trying to fix an over painted section. You can do this! Best of luck.

The gaps between the planks of shiplap are not meant to be caulked. I put mine up and left a gap the thickness of a nickel. I used a sash brush to do the gaps first. Then the surface. I did mine in white because I wanted that beachy look.

Good luck, Barb

Sash brush?

Hello Jody,

White Emulsion Paint watered down should give you a white washed look or you could use an Exterior "Shades" Paint for wood. Best wishes

Hi Jody, I used a 2" chip brush to paint between our shiplap planks, after installation. I would have painted before we installed but my better half wanted to install first. I used the chip brush in the space between planks then a small roller to paint the planks, but we wanted fully painted planks. I think the cup brush will work well for white wash, use a smaller one for the spaces and a larger one for the plank surface.

Best wishes to you!