What are batten boards?

Board and batten siding consists of alternating wide and overlapping narrower boards. These narrow boards are referred to as the batten boards.

How long does board and batten siding last?

It depends on the type of board and batten siding. Common materials include wood, hardie board, aluminum/steel, vinyl, or engineered wood. Engineered wood will last for 25 years if prefinished and weather treated.

Is board and batten less expensive than vinyl siding?

Vinyl is typically cheaper than board and batten siding due to lower manufacturing costs and faster installation.

How thick should board and batten be?

Board and batten should be 1" thick. As for width, the boards are typically 10" and the batten 2".

How do I attach batten to the wall?

Using a level and measuring tape, position the batten and nail it into place. If using screws, mark its positioning with a pencil, then remove the batten and drill a hole for the screw. This will stop the board from splitting. Put the batten back in place and fasten it using screws into the predrilled holes.

How far apart are studs?

Framing studs are typically spaced at 16", but sometimes studs can be 12" or 24" apart.

How far apart are wall battens?

It depends on the width of the boards and the material being used. When using wood, you want to leave enough space between each board to allow for expansion, and your battens should cover these gaps and slightly overlap the boards. Based on your material specifications, use a credible formula to determine the appropriate batten spacing. For the wide vertical boards, space 1/2″ to 1″ between the boards to allow natural movement and for the batten fasteners to pass between the boards.

Should I caulk board and batten siding?

Yes, sealing the battens with cauls will weatherproof the house and is an essential part of the installation process.

How do you fasten board and batten siding?

Fasten it by nailing the boards in the center and the battens between the gaps of the boards. Fasten board and battens using screws or nails at the bottom and top edges and every 2′ along the board lengthwise.

Does board and batten siding leak?

When properly installed, board and batten siding does not leak.

What are the advantages of board and batten siding?

It has a long lifespan, is cheap to repair, can be installed vertically, horizontally, or both, and will improve your resale value.

What are the disadvantages of board and batten siding?

It can be more expensive to install than other siding options. If untreated, it becomes a target of termites, so you need to power wash, seal, then paint or stain the siding periodically.

How much does board and batten siding cost?

Board and batten can cost between $0.75 to $9 per square foot, for material only. While installation does vary between regions, expect to pay between $1.50 to $5 per square foot in the United States. Prices vary quite a bit. As an example, a 1,000-square-foot install can range from $2,250 or $14,000.

Learn about Board and Batten Siding

Board and batten siding is a classic exterior cladding made of wood boards installed vertically, with narrower boards (battens) to cover the seams. It can be stained, painted, charred, or allowed to weather.

Look for locally harvested, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood.

Look for high-quality, thicker boards with few knots - it will last longer. Installation can be do-it-yourself or look for a contractor with experience with real wood siding. It's best installed over a 3/4" to 1" air space above the waterproof house wrap layer, with spacers made from wood lattice or strapping, to allow the backside of the wood to air dry after rain and condensation.

While most types of wood siding require preservation treatment such as paint or stain, some kinds of wood are more naturally weather resistant than others. In North America, woods such as white cedar, red cedar, and douglas fir can be used as siding without treatment, while woods such as pine and spruce should be treated with a stain, paint, or non-toxic preservative.

Wood is a classic, easy to install, aesthetically desirable, and renewable material. While still having some drawbacks, such as relatively high maintenance (painting, staining, or replacement), it is a preferred material for those considering a more sustainable exterior shell for their home. In forested regions, it can sometimes be obtained from local sawmills.

The word batten is common in construction, where it usually refers to long, thin strips of wood that are used to cover or strengthen joins. They're also used in sailing to support the roach of a sail so it won't flutter in the wind!