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.
