Board and batten siding is a traditional type of exterior cladding that consists of wide vertical boards and narrow strips that run vertically along the seams between the boards. In addition to creating incredible visual texture and natural shadow lines, this distinct siding style brings immediate character to the home.
Versatility is a big draw for board and batten siding, as it can be used in so many different ways to achieve distinct design styles, including coastal, cabin, modern farmhouse aesthetics and more. Because board and batten can be used in a variety of ways, it has continued to grow in popularity.
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is to assume that vinyl board and batten siding is the only option. Traditionally, board and batten siding was crafted from wood, which required a lot of resources, a complicated installation process, and almost nonstop maintenance to address dry rot, leaks and peeling paint. For many years, vinyl board and batten was considered an improvement over wood, since it’s easier to install and pretty affordable. However, vinyl still isn’t the best choice in today’s market.
Vinyl Board and Batten Siding is Prone to Damage and Deterioration
Vinyl board and batten siding is made from a plastic-based material, which is the start of many issues for construction materials that are routinely exposed to the elements. Here are some of the most common issues with vinyl board and batten siding:
Shifting, Sagging and Cracks
Vinyl performs best in climates that experience a mild, consistent temperature range year round. Any region that experiences heat spikes or freezing temps will likely cause problems for vinyl board and batten siding. Vinyl can swell and expand when it gets warm, and crack when the temps fall below freezing. This can lead to the appearance of board and batten vinyl siding looking wavy, irregular, and sloppy.
Scrapes, Dents and Holes
Most vinyl has significantly low durability ratings, and vinyl board and batten siding gets surface damage quite easily because of its plastic composition. Hail, strong winds and tree debris can leave noticeable damage on the surface of the siding that can compromise the home’s curb appeal.
Moisture Damage and Mold
Vinyl is also known for providing ideal conditions for mold and mildew to spread, since the plastic-based surface is fairly smooth. Board and batten style features vertical grooves, so it can be difficult to clean the siding and remove mold completely. Humidity, rainfall and seasonal snowfall can leave moisture damage on vinyl board and batten siding. For these reasons, it’s better to find a low-maintenance siding option that’s moisture resistant.
