How to Install a Tongue-and-Groove Plank Ceiling

Want to dress up a boring space? Consider adding plank ceilings, which make rooms look larger and offer a warm, traditional feel. Plus, tongue-and-groove planks make installation a cinch.

Highlights:

Step 1: Attach Furring Strips to Ceiling
Step 2: Install Planks
Step 3: Secure Planks
Step 4: Cut Holes for Recessed Lighting

Step 1: Attach Furring Strips to Ceiling

Fasten furring strips to the ceiling with the cordless framing nailer. These will act as nailers to attach your planks to.

Step 2: Install Planks

Start with your first piece: groove facing the wall, tongue facing out. Use the framing gun to add a nail to the tongue of the plank and secure in place. For the next piece, you will connect the groove of the new piece into the tongue of the first piece.

Step 3: Secure Planks

Secure the planks by attaching a tapping block to the tongue and lightly hitting it with a hammer into the seam.

NOTE: Never hit the tongue directly with a hammer, or it will no longer interlock with other pieces adequately.

Step 4: Cut Holes for Recessed Lighting

When you approach the holes in the ceiling for recessed lighting, be sure to accurately measure the location for the center of the light (Image 1). Continue planking the ceiling, then go back and cut a hole for the light using a 6-1/4” hole saw (Image 2).