Board and Batten siding is a classic siding that can be found on old barns and houses all throughout Montana and the entire U.S. It is a style that has stood the test of time and one that is now making a comeback as a trendy, contemporary siding option. So what is Board and Batten siding, and why does it continue to be one of the most popular siding options out there?

History

Board and Batten siding has been around since the early days. After the invention of the sawmill, people began seeking out new siding methods that were more energy-efficient than those notoriously drafty log homes. With the production of long milled boards, people began installing vertical siding since these long planks could reach from the foundation to the roof without any breaks. Despite being slightly more innovative, cold air could still seep in between the boards. Thin wooden firring strips were then nailed up over these gaps creating the classic Board and Batten look. 

The Look

Nowadays, people seek out Board and Batten siding as an ode to the past – quickly achieving a beautiful, classic, and efficient siding without much fuss. Typically, Board and Batten is applied using a 1x10 board (⅞” x 9 ¼”) and a 1x3 (¾” x 2 ¾”) batten. However, there’s often room for customization if you have specific design ideas in mind. In some cases, the batten is applied behind the board for a reverse board and batt look that adds a unique twist to this classic look. 

Board and Batten has been making a comeback lately as people rediscover the beauty of this simplistic vertical siding. Board and Batten can be used to achieve a variety of different aesthetics from countryside farmhouse to mid-century modern. Because of the bumped-out battens, this siding is a great way to create texture and movement, which can help create the illusion of a much larger structure. 

Installation

Another perk to Board and Batten siding is the quick and easy installation. If you’re choosing wood Board and Batten, all sides and cut ends should be prefinished to achieve a long-term installation. Board and Batten can only be installed vertically and should be nailed to horizontal blocking not exceeding 32 inches on center. The boards are spaced out  ¾” to 1” apart, so you achieve the recommended ½” overlap on each side of the batt. Batts are then nailed up over each seam. 

Upkeep

With classic wood Board and Batten, upkeep is simple. Before you install, staining and finishing each board is important to ensure a long-lasting product. At Marks Lumber, we recommend using Valhalla’s Lifetime Wood Treatment, to help protect your siding for years to come. 

Once installed, it is always a good idea to keep your siding clean. Wood siding benefits from regular washings. Using a light pressure wash with a mild detergent designed specifically for wood is the best way to keep your wood siding fresh. We recommend using Perma-Chink’s Log Wash to help prolong the life of your wood siding.  

Inspiration

Nowadays, you can find Board and Batten siding options that fit almost every possible design idea you can imagine. At Marks Lumber, we specialize in good old-fashioned wood sidings. Our full-dimension, circle sawn boards provide you with a sturdy, quality siding product that can’t be matched. By choosing wood Board and Batten, you can easily achieve that natural, rugged Montana look that vinyl or concrete alternatives just can’t compete with. 

If you’re not sold on using this siding for the entirety of your home but still like the look, try using Board and Batten in your gables. Popping Board and Batten into your gables is one of our favorite ways to create intrigue and bring your exterior to life. 

Looking for quality wood Board and Batten Siding? Contact Marks Lumber today to learn more about our unique wood siding options.