What are the Pros and Cons of Board and Batten Siding? (2024)

What are the Pros and Cons of Board and Batten Siding? (1)

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One of the most popular siding styles recently is board and batten, thanks to the revitalization of farmhouse designs and modern styles influenced by a farmhouse look. Board and batten siding is a high-design look, especially when installed in a fresh, bold color. A high-quality siding installation ensures your home siding lasts a lifetime, so when you make a choice of siding option, it’s important to understand the opportunities and challenges of each style. Here, the Bellwether team will walk you through the pros and cons of board and batten siding.

What is Board and Batten Siding?

Board and batten, simply put, is an installation method in which the siding planks are installed vertically, alongside each other, and then a smaller board—the batten—is installed on top of the vertical planks to cover up the seam between them. Usually board and batten siding is constructed from 4×10 panels, with the batten installed every four feet.

Board and batten siding originated during the colonial period, in a sawmill boom. The technique was developed for more efficient building and resource use. The resurgence of farmhouse-inspired styles reintroduced board and batten as a popular siding option.

So, what are the pros and cons of board and batten siding?

Pros of Board and Batten Siding

Currently, board and batten siding is incredibly popular, and so by choosing board and batten siding, you can achieve a modern, high-design look. This aesthetic works on many home styles and quickly elevates your home’s exterior, especially when installed in a bold color, high-contrast color.

What’s more, board and batten style is versatile. Siding planks can be installed either horizontally or vertically to create a multi-dimensional appearance and great curb appeal.

This siding option is also highly durable, which is a positive point in the Colorado climate. Known to hold up against strong winds and heavy moisture, board and batten siding protects your home’s interior, keeping it warm and dry.

While traditional board and batten siding was made from hardwood like oak or cedar, with technological advances, other materials can be tailored to mimic a wooden board and batten design. Products like James Hardie fiber cement siding can be cut and colored for a beautiful, rustic wood-like finish, completing your farmhouse-inspired design, while still protecting your home against hazards like wildfire, baking sun, and moisture.

Cons of Board and Batten Siding

Board and batten siding has a lot of positive points, and is a worthy siding option, but there are some drawbacks to be aware of so that you can make an informed decision for your home exterior.

The biggest challenge to board and batten siding is budgetary, both in time and cost. Because of the careful installation technique and extra batten pieces to cover plank seams, board and batten siding requires additional materials and time at installation. The end result is a secure, protective exterior shell, but it is an investment of time and money.

Choosing the wrong material for your board and batten siding can create other problems. By opting for traditional wood siding or a cheaper material, such as vinyl, you create long-term challenges, especially warping. When board and batten siding warps, it becomes less affective at protecting your home from the elements. You can avoid this drawback by installing your board and batten siding with a high-quality product such as James Hardie fiber cement. Not only will your siding not warp or wear over time, you can rely on warranties and color-matching technology for any repairs that do need to be made.

Lastly, it is important to consider longevity. Board and batten siding is trending currently, but this style choice may become less popular over time. Working with a design team to choose something timeless for your home will ensure that you love your home for a lifetime.

Why should Bellwether replace my siding?

Bellwether has decades of experience in home exterior construction, including siding installation for Colorado climates. We use high-quality siding materials and the industry’s best practices to ensure that all of our customers are outfitted with beautiful home siding that remains beautiful throughout years of Colorado snow, ice, wind, and baking sun.

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What are the Pros and Cons of Board and Batten Siding? (2)

What are the Pros and Cons of Board and Batten Siding? (3)

What are the Pros and Cons of Board and Batten Siding? (4)

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What are the Pros and Cons of Board and Batten Siding? (2024)

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of board and batten siding? ›

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.

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.

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.

What is the upkeep of board and batten siding? ›

Low Maintenance: Unlike wood siding that may require more frequent upkeep, board and batten style made with fiber cement needs minimal maintenance. Its resistance to rot, pests, and weather means you can spend less time on maintenance and more time enjoying your home.

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.

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.

What is a cheaper alternative to board and batten? ›

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.

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.

Is board and batten trendy or timeless? ›

Today, board and batten has made a resurgence in residential architecture. Homeowners and architects are drawn to its timeless appeal and rustic (or modern, if desired) charm. Modern materials and construction techniques have made it a viable option for both new builds and renovations.

What goes behind board and batten siding? ›

It's usually recommended that the board and batten is installed onto solid plywood or OSB sheathing. If the sheathing isn't solid, the laborer will need to first attach horizontal furring strips.

Why is board and batten so expensive? ›

At $4 to $21 per square foot, cypress is the most expensive board and batten siding material. This is because it's in such high demand. It's a strong wood in the face of the elements and has a 40-year lifespan when properly maintained, but it's also very easy to cut and install.

What is the best type of board and batten siding? ›

Vinyl and steel board and batten sidings, for example, are better in terms of durability and cost while wood is a great option aesthetic-wise. There are, however, more than ten types of board and batten siding materials that are available in the market today.

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.

Which is better shiplap or board and batten? ›

Board and batten and shiplap are both outstanding choices for residential design, each with its own charm and versatility. Board and batten's vertical orientation and elegant lines add a touch of sophistication, while shiplap's horizontal profile invites a cozy and rustic feel.

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