How To Install Board And Batten Siding | The Complete Guide
Few looks are as iconic as board and batten siding. However, did you know that there are multiple ways to get achieve the looks of board and batten siding? In this blog, we will talk about the three most popular ways of how to install board and batten siding.
What is Board and Batten Siding?
Board and batten siding originated in the 1830s by the designer Gil Walsh. Board and Batten siding uses wide boards (the board part of the siding) and Narrow Boards (the batten of the siding). Traditionally board and batten siding has been used for barn siding. However, board and batten siding has grown in popularity for use in homes and businesses as well.
Is Board and Batten Siding A Traditional Or Modern Look?
Even though board and batten is an older siding style, it is viewed as a modern look. Traditionally this style was created to be an exertion siding. However, this siding has become increasingly popular for interior usage as well. Commonly you will see this look at the entryway of the home.
What Kind Of Materials Can Board and Batten Siding Be Found in?
Board and Batten siding can be found in vinyl, wood, and steel. Each of these materials has its pros and cons. Something to keep in mind is that if you do not use true boards and battens, you may get the appearance of something similar to board and batten but not the iconic look and feel. This is because the traditional board and batten siding offer a 3-inch batten and a 10-inch board. Whereas the other materials are simply trying to mimic the appearance and will look slightly different.
Vinyl Board and Batten Siding
How Do I Install Vinyl Board And Batten Siding?
Board and Batten vinyl siding is installed similarly to traditional vinyl siding. However, to put the siding into place, it is done vertically instead of horizontally. This means that you will need a hammer, nails, and some snips to get the job done correctly. To get the best idea of how to install vinyl board and batten siding, we have found this video to be the most helpful.
As you can see, installing this siding is not terribly difficult but will take some know-how. However, setting up your siding needs to be done properly, or it may result in damage to the wall structure of your building. This blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not substitute for hiring a professional with the proper knowledge to set it up appropriately.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Vinyl Board And Batten Siding?
All Board And Batten siding styles come with pros and cons. Some of the cons may be easy to overlook, while others can really be deal breakers. To help you better understand the pros and cons, take a look at the list that we have developed to help you make the best decision for your needs.
Pros
Many Color Choices
Easy To Wash
Readily available
Easy To Find Replacement Pieces
Cons
Brittle In Cold Weather
Lasts Only 20 years
Easily Cracks
Sun Fading Makes Finding a color-matched piece difficult
Wooden Board And Batten Siding
How Do I Install Wooden Board and Batten Siding?
Installing wooden board and batten siding is not for those who enjoy a “quick weekend project.” This version of beard and batten installation takes a good bit of know-how and resources. However, if you want a truly iconic board and batten-style siding, we have found that this video is very helpful in teaching you how to install it.
As you can see, this is a fairly labor-intensive project. However, for those who want the true board and batten look, there is no substitute for your desire. Keep in mind that the people in this video are offering you their personal experience and knowledge. Your project may be different then the one depicted in the video. We highly advise that you work within your comfort zone and seek advice from a trusted professional when you take on a project like this.
What Are The Pros and Cons Of Wooden Board And Batten Siding?
Installing true board and batten siding has a long list of pros and cons. However, we feel that this style does have slightly more cons than pros. To help you determine if this board and batten siding style are what you need, take a look at the list below.
Pros
Appealing To Many People
Easy To Replace Damaged Pieces
Truly Custom Color Options
Cons
Time-consuming to put up
Costly
Appearance is very specific
Prone To Warping
Easily deteriorates if not installed correctly
Steel Board And Batten Siding
Given that we are a steel panel manufacturer, it should come as no surprise that we are partial to steel Board and Batten Siding. Steel Board and Batten siding offers color options and the ease of installation that you see with vinyl. Additionally, this siding will outlast both wood and vinyl siding. To understand how to install steel board and batten siding, we found this video to be very helpful in explaining the process.
As you can see, steel board and batten siding is a great way to dis whatever project you have in mind. While the man featured in the video is a pro at what he does, you may feel overwhelmed at taking on such a task. If that is the case, we advise working with a contractor who is capable of doing the work and setting you up for success. However, we believe Steel Board and Batten Siding offer far more to you as a consumer than the other options that are available in today’s market.
Pros
40-year warranty
Custom lengths available
Fire Resistant
Easy To Install
Real Wood Looks available
Color Matched trim and hardware
Cons
Denting
Not as readily available in big box stores
So How Will You Side Your Next Project?
As you can see, Steel Board and Batten have a lot of things to offer you. With steel, board, and batten siding, you will have affordable, long-lasting siding options that are so easy you may feel comfortable doing it on your own. We know the other options offer some quality competition however, we want to see you outperform our competitors. So when you are ready to get your steel board and batten siding project completed, give us a call at Wagler Steel, and we will be happy to give you a hand on getting your project up and running.