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Board and Batten Siding

If you’re unfamiliar with home exterior construction, you may be unaware that siding comes in a variety of styles. Horizontal panels, traditional lap, dutch lap, board and batten, and shakes are just a few of the most popular. This blog will discuss board and batten. At Roof Right, an exterior home remodeling company in Carroll County, we are going to examine the benefits of installing board and batten siding on your home! 

board and batten siding

Introduction to Board and Batten Siding

Board and batten is one of the most popular types of construction in the United States at the moment. As a simple yet distinctive type of siding, it is frequently used on barns throughout America, earning it the moniker “barn siding.”

Board and batten siding is constructed using narrow strips of wood called battens. These battens are alternated with wider boards to give your home a layered appearance. It’s design renders it weatherproof and resistant to strong winds. Many people also appreciate the distinctive appearance of board and batten, which is why it is frequently preferred over other materials. With hundreds of years of use, board and batten has proven its worth, evolved over time, and is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.

Benefits of Board and Batten Siding

  • For a variety of reasons, homeowners prefer board and batten siding to other types. We’re going to highlight some of its most significant advantages in this section. If these are the benefits you seek, you may want to consider board and batten for your home! Among the advantages are the following:

    It’s durable – When properly installed and maintained, board and batten can last for many years, if not decades. This durable siding is ideal if you want to replace it as infrequently as possible.

    It’s aesthetically pleasing – Simply because the siding is durable does not mean it is ugly. Board and batten is aesthetically pleasing to everyone, from homeowners to passersby on the street. Your neighbors will be delighted to see your home next to theirs when they look out their windows.

    It improves your home’s curb appeal – Are you considering selling your home in the near future? If this is the case, board and batten can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal, allowing it to sell more quickly and for a higher price.

    It’s adaptable – This is one of the most adaptable types of siding. It is suitable for a wide variety of applications. The boards can be installed vertically, horizontally, or in a combination of both directions, with the battens sandwiched between the boards. Additionally, because they are composed of individual components, they are easy to replace, which helps keep maintenance costs low.

    When you choose vinyl for board and batten siding, you get the benefit of a beautiful appearance without the hassle of maintenance.

COSTS OF BOARD AND BATTEN SIDING

Is board and batten siding a costly option? That is the primary question we receive from homeowners prior to making any decisions. Board and batten siding costs vary according to the size of your home and the material you select. If you choose vinyl, you’ll pay between $7 and $12 per square foot, depending on whether it’s insulated or not, as well as the quality or thickness you select. During your consultation, we’ll determine a price range based on your preferences and requirements. Board and batten siding is extremely popular at the moment for a variety of reasons. You will most certainly not be sorry if you choose it for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

The following are the most frequently asked questions about board and batten exterior siding by our team.

Is board and batten siding more expensive? 

Board and batten siding is frequently more expensive than other types of siding. This is due to the lengthier installation process and a higher waste margin as you want to use full size panels to achieve the best look.  Many people believe the expense is justified because it allows for natural expansion and contraction, which helps prevent cracking and other forms of deterioration.

How is board and batten siding manufactured?

Board and batten siding is available in a variety of materials, including wood, vinyl, steel, and fiber cement. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Typically, wood is used by homeowners who desire a rustic look. Vinyl is a cost-effective and durable material. Steel is extremely durable. Furthermore, fiber cement is a safe, durable, versatile, and long-lasting material. Consult your local siding company to determine which option is best for you.

Is board and batten siding suitable for my home? 

Naturally, it is! Board and batten siding has grown in popularity in recent years due to its beauty and unique appearance, as well as its durability and versatility. When properly maintained, this type of siding can last for decades.

Is Hardie Board and Batten the same as board and batten?

No, they are not synonymous. Siding is classified as board and batten or Hardie Board if it is manufactured by James Hardie. Hardie Board is a type of fiber cement siding that can be used for both board and batten and clapboard applications. If you’re interested in replacing the siding on your home, contact our team to schedule an appointment.

How can I add value to my home by using board and batten siding? 

Board and batten siding not only adds character to your home, but also contributes to its value. It’s one way to infuse your home with charm and character while also giving it a custom, “high-end” look. Additionally, this versatile style of siding acts as an excellent insulator and provides a moisture barrier, which helps prevent mold and other issues.

Is caulk required for board and batten siding installation? 

Caulking should be applied to board and batten siding. Caulking contributes to the professional appearance of your board and batten siding. Additionally, it fills the gaps between the wall and board edges, enhancing the siding’s durability and extending its life.

Does board and batten siding create leaks? 

Board and batten siding will not leak if installed properly. Additionally, caulking is used to help prevent leaks by filling any gaps between the walls and the board edges.

Can pine wood be used as an option for board and batten siding? 

Yes, pine is a wood option for board and batten siding. When sealed, painted, or stained properly, this type of siding can last between 20 and 30 years. It lends your home a lovely, classic appearance. 

How long will 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.

Will board and batten siding be available in the future? 

Board and batten siding has a classic, one-of-a-kind look that may never go out of style. Whether you prefer a rustic, farmhouse look or a more modern look for your home, board and batten is an excellent choice! It is truly that adaptable.

Is board and batten siding available in vinyl? 

Yes, vinyl is a very popular choice for board and batten siding. Vinyl is resistant to harsh weather conditions, durable, low-maintenance, and long-lasting for years (or even decades). Additionally, it is available in a variety of stunning colors to complement the exterior of any home.

CAN BOARD AND BATTEN BE USED ON TEXTURED WALLS?

Yes, board and batten siding can be installed on textured walls! Indeed, some homeowners use board and batten to conceal textured walls they prefer not to sand. This style infuses a home with charm and character, elevating its sense of elegance and refinement. If you wish to complete the project on your own, there are numerous tutorials available online. If you’d rather hire a professional, contact your neighborhood siding company.

WHAT SHOULD THE THICKNESS OF BOARD AND BATTEN BE?

The thickness of board and batten siding will vary depending on the contractor’s recommendation and the homeowner’s preference. The wider boards, on the other hand, should typically be between 12 and 14 inches thick, while the thinner strips should be between 1 and 3 inches thick.

FOR BOARD AND BATTEN, WHAT SIZE BOARDS DO YOU USE?

Generally, the size of the boards will depend on the size of the wall and what you choose from the contractor’s suggestions. The most frequently used arrangement consists of 110 boards and either 12 or 13 battens. Additionally, homeowners can choose between 18 or 12 boards and 14 battens.

DOES BOARD AND BATTEN IMPAIR THE APPEARANCE OF A ROOM?

No, quite the contrary. Board and batten visually expands a room! Many people use it to amplify the appearance of a small entryway or room. To create a layered effect, this siding and paneling style layers narrow strips of wood over the joints of wide boards.

WHAT TYPE OF WOOD IS USED IN BOARD AND BATTEN MANUFACTURING?

The most frequently used types of wood for board and batten siding are as follows:

Cedar\sPine\sRedwood

The White Oak

Locust\sHemlock\sCyprus

Engineered timber

The type of wood you use is entirely up to you. Vinyl and fiber cement are also popular options. Consult with your neighborhood siding professionals to determine their recommendations for your home.

IS PLYWOOD SUITABLE FOR BOARD AND BATTEN SIDING?

Yes, the board and batten system can be installed on OSB or solid plywood sheathing. Indeed, plywood is a popular low-cost option for any type of siding. It significantly improves the structural integrity of walls at an affordable price.

HOW ARE BOARD AND BATTEN READY FOR PAINTING?

There are several steps you should take to prepare your board and batten siding for painting. They include the following:

Clean the wood and remove any debris that may have accumulated.

Ascertain that the battens and boards are securely fastened.

Utilize a paintbrush or a paint sprayer to apply the primer coat.

Caulk the battens’ edges.

Utilize a paint sprayer to apply the final coat of paint. When the paint has dried, apply an additional coat to complete the job.

IS BOARD AND BATTEN SIDING MORE ECONOMICAL THAN VINYL SIDING?

No, because board and batten siding is made of wood and requires more effort to install than horizontal vinyl siding. Board and batten costs between $7 and $12 per square foot, while horizontal vinyl siding typically costs between $6 and $12. Bear in mind that prices vary depending on a variety of factors, so it’s best to check with a local roofer to get a more accurate estimate.

About Roof Right

At Roof Right we have realized customer service and trust are poorly lacking in the roofing industry. That is why our roofing company takes pride in our exceptional service which includes showing up when we say we will, providing a thorough 17-point inspection, listening to you so we can make a quick and thorough diagnosis of your roofing problem, and cleaning up after ourselves as we work. In addition to offering residential roofing services and roof repairs in Maryland. Roof Right is proud to offer the following services:

Roofing & Gutter Maintenance – Your roof, just like your car, should get routine inspections. Your roof gets more abuse from the elements than any other part of your home and preventative maintenance is a key element to a longer service life. Protect your home with the Roof Right Shield Program. Every year, our expert roofers will climb up on your roof and into your attic to ensure that your roof is providing you with the maximum protection for your home. Learn more about roofing & gutter maintenance

Skylights & Solatubes – Brighten your home with natural sunlight with skylights & solatubes installed by the team at Roof RightSunlight in your home can transform a dark room into one that is bright and full of natural light. It can also highlight textures, and bring out the vibrant colors of your furniture. And that is a beautiful thing! Skylights allow you to light your home for free during the day using natural sunlight. That means you can spend less on electricity and more on you! Roof Right offers a complete system of skylight products for any kind of roof. Learn more about skylights & solatubes.

Gutters – Installing a new seamless gutter system is one of the most critical aspects of all home repairs. Improving the drainage around the home can have a significant impact on the stability of the foundation and the life of your home. Roof Right installs gutters and gutter guards that will efficiently channel water away from your home. Learn more about gutters

Siding – Looking to add curb appeal along with improving your homes energy efficiency? No paint. No stain. No hassles. Vinyl siding delivers strength, durability, and beauty of real wood with a variety of design options and multiple color options. Based on an average size home, repainting can cost thousands of dollars every few years. Vinyl siding never needs painting, caulking or patching because, unlike wood, it won’t crack, peel, rot or split. Roof Right carries siding from the best manufacturers in the industry, including Mastic, CertainTeedJames Hardie. Learn more about siding

Windows – Reduce your energy bills & increase the curb appeal of your home with energy efficient windows installed by Roof Right!  There are hundreds of vinyl window brands on the market today – but they are not all created equal. Many ordinary vinyl windows are designed only for low cost, not for value. We install top-of-the-line, energy efficient windows for long-lasting great looks. We carry a wide selection of energy efficient products from trusted manufacturers. Learn more about windows

Doors – Roof Right and ProVia® are dedicated to making entry doors the professional way. ProVia entry doors are energy efficient, built to quality standards and gives you many choices to entry-level doors that are sold through box stores. Roof Right installers have attended entry systems and storm door training with ProVia®. We have software that will allow you to build your new entry door on our computer so you can see the many different options and price ranges available. ProVia® builds their doors with care in every detail. They don’t cut corners and pay attention to the smallest details. The replacement doors can be customized to your individual taste and style. They are an industry leader in building residential doors. Learn more about doors

Decks & Patios –  We can help you design a deck for your home that can bring you many years of enjoyment and improve your home’s value. Let us guide you through the design and construction of your dream deck. From designing the deck for your needs and budget, to getting all the necessary permits, we will make the construction process as pleasant as possible. Choose Roof Right to build a custom deck that will increase your living space and become your favorite relaxation and entertaining spot. Learn more about decks & patios