Board and batten style siding is enjoying a resurgence as a way to create visual interest in an otherwise blank wall. So, what is “board and batten?” It’s a type of siding where thin strips of wood molding—or “battens”—are placed over the seams of panel boards. The result is an aesthetic that is both rustic and chic, with the strong vertical lines providing shadows and textures to the home exterior.
Since the U.S. was first settled, board and batten were used for outbuildings, such as barns and sheds. That’s why some areas of the country still call it “barn siding.” Batten strips were used over the seams of the panel boards, creating a siding that helped to stop the outside elements from entering through the joints, keeping farm animals warm through the harsh winters.
Modern Board & Batten
Many different design looks can be achieved using board and batten siding, including:
- Installing panels vertically
- Using thin battens
- Using wider battens
- Using thinner batten strips on top of wider battens
- Varying thin and wide battens
- Installing board and batten siding on full exterior or to accent a wall/feature
- Using board and batten on second story
- Mixing board and batten with brick veneer
- Mixing board and batten with metal roofing
However it’s used, board and batten can provide a clean, modern texture to your home, providing character and a cozy warmth to the exterior.
Is Board & Batten Expensive?
The cost of achieving the board and batten look varies according to home size, style, type of materials and professional labor.
- Size – As expected, larger homes require more materials and labor.
- Design – Unusual or more complicated designs require additional labor time measuring, cutting and installing.
- Overall project – Overall board and batten costs may be minimal if you are not residing the entire home. Focusing on the front façade of your home is a great way to achieve the look you want while saving money.
- Quality – Cheaper materials are available, but in the long run they will require extensive maintenance and upkeep and could be susceptible to weather.
Is Board & Batten Durable?
While board and batten siding is typically wood, it can be made from vinyl, fiber cement or steel. But when it comes to durability, engineered wood siding is a smarter buy compared to solid wood siding because it mimics its look, but features greater durability and easier maintenance.
LP®SmartSide®Trim & Sidingis an engineered wood siding that features proprietary technology for protection against hail, wind, moisture, fungal decay and termites. Combining LP SmartSide panels with trim to create a board and batten look is a smart way to get the durability you’re looking for with a warranty you’ll appreciate.
Want more ideas? Check our inspiration gallery.
FAQs
Drawbacks of Board and Batten Siding
One major drawback of board and batten siding is the cost. It can be more expensive than other siding styles, like traditional lap siding. However, many homeowners find that the durability and timeless appeal of board and batten siding justify the higher upfront investment.
What are the rules for board and batten? ›
Measure wall width to determine the spacing of your battens or vertical slats. Most traditional batten is placed between 8” to 12” apart. The placement of our battens will be 8” apart. To determine the length of the battens for our 5' tall wall, we subtracted 5-1/2” for the baseboard and 3-1/2” for the top trim.
What goes under board and batten siding? ›
Can plywood be used for board and batten siding? Yes! Plywood is a popular material used for board and batten siding because it's a dimensionally stable wood and relatively inexpensive. It's usually recommended that the board and batten is installed onto solid plywood or OSB sheathing.
What is the maintenance on board and batten siding? ›
Maintenance Requirements: While vinyl and composite materials require less maintenance, traditional wood board and batten siding require regular upkeep to prevent rot, mold, and insect damage. This includes periodic painting or staining to preserve its appearance and durability.
Is board and batten high maintenance? ›
Depending on the type of wood or siding you use, it will last for decades with proper maintenance. Old barns and houses that still have the original siding on them in good condition still exist. Low maintenance. Except for certain types of wood, board and batten siding is low maintenance.
How long does board and batten siding last? ›
While the material you choose will affect the lifespan of your board and batten siding, on average, this style should last approximately 25 years, especially if you choose vinyl, which is the most popular option. It could last longer if you use a more durable material such as fiber cement.
Should I screw or nail board and batten siding? ›
Boards should be screwed 2” from both the top and the bottom and then at least every 2' vertically. Nails are not recommended for exterior wood siding! 7. It is best to install all window and door trim before installing the battens.
Does board and batten have to go into studs? ›
Try your best to get the boards to line up with the studs. However, it's not necessary. If you hardboard covering your textured walls, also ensure the boards cover up the seams.
What is the gap between board and batten siding? ›
There should be a max 9-1/2" reveal between each batten. Install the edge of the first board 3/8" from the plumb line center of the wall. Once the first board is installed, space boards 3/4" (Fig.
Should you caulk board and batten siding? ›
The process of installing it can be more labor-intensive and time-consuming than installing similar wooden sidings, and sealing the battens with caulking is crucial to weatherproofing the house. For all board edges, apply a paintable caulk between the wall and the edge of the board.
Fiber cement is the cheapest material for board and batten siding. It costs around $0.75 to $5 per square foot only. Fiber cement is a mixture of three different materials. Essentially, it is made by combining wood cellulose, sand, and cement.
What kind of panel do you use for board and batten? ›
I prefer to use wood over MDF boards for the strips, since MDF can swell and disintegrate if it gets wet. It will also have to be painted, not stained. If you have textured walls versus smooth walls and need to cover them with panels, use a smooth board to cover the wall. A smooth MDF works best for this situation.
What is the disadvantage of batten board? ›
Prone to Discoloration. Another drawback about pine board and batten siding is that it tends to darken over time. Excessive exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays causes the timber to age which creates amber-like color spots. It can be avoided by coating the timbers with a UV-resistant sealer.
What is the best way to seal board and batten siding? ›
In dry, arid climates the problem is less severe, but in temperate climates with distinct seasonal rains and snow, moisture can be a problem. In these regions, board and batten siding must be sealed with a wood sealer or painted with exterior grade paint to block the absorption or rot will likely follow.
Can you pressure wash board and batten siding? ›
It's recommended to pull out the garden hose and douse your home siding every 6-12 months. Don't use a high-pressure power washer to get the job done, as it turns out a low-pressure hose and a soft medium bristle (nonmetal) brush is the best way to remove dirt and debris from James Hardie® siding and trim.
Is board and batten siding worth it? ›
Depending on the material quality, board and batten siding comes with outstanding durability. It can protect your home and prevent damage even under extreme weather conditions. Plus, depending on the paint or finish, board and batten siding can stay looking like new after years with no stains.
Are board and batten outdated? ›
Is board and batten an outdated style for a home? Board and batten is a classic, timeless look for both exterior and interiors. What type of wood is board and batten made with? You can use many types of wood for board and batten, including cedar, pine, oak, and redwood for interior or exterior installations.
Do board and batten increase home value? ›
Enhancement of Property Value: The aesthetic appeal and durability of James Hardie Board and Batten can increase a property's market value, making it an attractive choice for future buyers. Longevity and Warranty: The product's robust construction ensures longevity, often lasting for decades with minimal maintenance.
Does board and batten siding leak? ›
Does board and batten siding leak? If it's properly installed, board and batten siding will not leak. Caulking is also designed to help prevent leaks by filling any gaps between the walls and board edges.
