What Is Board and Batten Siding? [The Ultimate Guide]

Sep 16, 2022

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What is Board and Batten Siding?

Board and batten siding is a type of siding that consists of wide boards that are spaced apart and narrow strips of wood (battens). These battens are used to cover the joints between the boards. This type of siding was traditionally used in barns and other types of rural buildings. However, it has become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to add character and charm to any home.

In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about board and batten siding. You will know some of the history, benefits, drawbacks, installation process, and cost. By the end of this guide, you will have all the information you need to decide if board and batten siding is right for your home.

What is board and batten sidingHistory of Board and Batten Siding

Board and batten siding is one of the oldest types of siding in existence. It is thought to have originated in Norway in the 1300s. This type of siding became popular in North America in the 1600s. European settlers began building log cabins using whatever materials were readily available.

The popularity of board and batten siding began to decline in the early 1900s as new siding materials—such as aluminum and vinyl—were introduced. However, this type of siding has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Homeowners are always are on the look out to add character and charm to their homes and board and batten does just that.

Benefits of Board and Batten Siding

There are many benefits to choose board and batten siding for your home, including:

Curb Appeal: Board and batten siding can add instant curb appeal to any home. This type of siding is available in a variety of colors and can be customized to match any home’s style.

Durability: Board and batten siding is extremely durable and can last for decades with minimal maintenance.

Energy Efficiency: Board and batten siding can help improve your home’s energy efficiency by providing an extra layer of insulation.

Easy Installation: Board and batten siding is relatively easy to install, especially if you hire a professional contractor.

Affordable: Board and batten sining is one of the most affordable types of sining on the market today.

 

Drawbacks of this Siding

There are a few potential drawbacks to choose board and batten siding for your house:

High Maintenance: Although board and batten siding is durable, it does require more maintenance than some other types on sidings such as vinyl or aluminum. You will need repaint or re-stain every few years to keep it looking its best.

Not Suitable for All Climates: Board and batten sidings needs to be refinished regularly to protect it from harsh weather conditions such as high winds, heavy rains, or snowstorms. As a result, this type on sidings is not suitable for all climates. (Unless you use a vinyl board and batten siding)

Limited Color Options: When compared with other types on sidings such as vinyl or aluminum, board and batten sidings has limited color options. If you want a color that is not available in pre-finished boards, you will need repaint or re-stain the entire house which can be time consuming and expensive.

Installing Board & Batten Sidings

If you decide that board and batten sidings is right for your house, you will need hire a professional contractor to install it properly. The installation process generally involves attaching furring strips to the exterior walls.

wood board and batten siding

This is done using nails or screws before attaching the boards directly over top. The joints between each board are then covered with narrow strips on wood (battens).

Cost Of Installation

The cost of installing board and batten sidings will vary depending on a number factors. For example, the size on your house, complexity of installation job all play a part in cost. Also if you hire a professional contractor to do the work for you will all affect the final cost ff installing the siding.

In general though, you can expect to pay between $2 And $4 per square foot for materials and labor.

If you do the job yourself, you may be able to save on labor, but it will take you longer and may be more difficult than expected. So make sure you are up for the challenge before starting.

Vinyl Board & Batten Siding

If you like the look of board and batten siding but don’t want the hassle of maintaining it, then vinyl board and batten siding may be a good option for you. This type on siding is made from durable PVC plastic and comes in a variety of colors and styles.

board and batten siding

Vinyl board and batten siding is also low maintenance and easy to install. In fact, many homeowners are able to install it themselves with just a few tools.

The only downside to vinyl board and batten siding is that it is one of the more expensive types on sidings.

So if you are working with a tight budget, then this may not be the best option for you.

Conclusion

Board and Batten is a great way to class up the exterior of your house while also adding some protection from the elements. It is relatively easy to install and maintain. It is important though, to make sure that you are comfortable with the process before starting. Once you have installed the siding you will enjoy it for many years to come!

Don’t forget to check out How To Measure House For Siding [Explained]

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