3 Easy Steps to Lay Out a Tongue and Groove Ceiling in Your camper van

Installing a tongue and groove ceiling in your van build can give it a polished, professional look, but getting the layout right is key to ensuring a symmetrical and well-fitted installation. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how I approach ceiling layout, particularly for tongue and groove paneling.

Step 1: Find the True Center of the Van

Before anything else, it’s essential to establish the exact center of your van. While manufacturers like Ford provide reference points—such as the holes in the ceiling structure of a Transit—these aren't always perfectly centered. I've seen factory markings be off by as much as 3/8 of an inch!

To find the true center:

• Measure from both sides of the van to a midpoint.

• Ensure the distance from each side is identical—this confirms you're working with an accurate centerline.

Taking the time to double-check this step will ensure your ceiling is properly aligned.

Step 2: Measure and Mark Your Layout

Once you’ve established the true center, it’s time to lay out the ceiling planks according to their width. In this example, the finished face of my material is exactly 5 inches wide.

• From the centerline, measure outward in increments of your plank width.

• Mark as far as you can while ensuring you’re using full-width pieces whenever possible.

• This method keeps your layout consistent and eliminates unnecessary cuts.

Step 3: Verify the Layout Before Installation

Before securing the panels, do a final verification to ensure everything lines up correctly.

• Lay out the boards according to your markings.

• Check that the centerline of the material matches the centerline of your layout.

• Ensure the ceiling will be symmetrical on both the left and right sides.

Taking this extra step helps avoid mistakes and ensures a clean, professional look once everything is installed.

Final Thoughts

A well-laid-out ceiling can make all the difference in your van build. Taking the time to find the true center, measure precisely, and verify your layout before installation will save you frustration and ensure a high-quality finish. Whether you're using tongue and groove or another material, accuracy is key!

Got any questions or tips of your own? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear how you approach van ceiling installs!