Board and Batten Explained

We’ve seen a considerable increase in demand for Board and Batten siding in the Greenville, SC market. This style is making waves in New Construction Homes, Home Additions, and Exterior Remodels. What is Board and Batten, and why is it such a popular choice in our area? 

 

 

What is Board and Batten? 

Traditional Board and Batten siding is made up of vertical planks (boards) and raised vertical strips (batten) that cover the seams of the boards. Its origins can actually be traced back over 1,000 years to the Middle Ages in Europe, where it was a practical added layer of protection for a home during severe weather. Today, Board and Batten has become an aesthetic consideration and is appreciated for its added style and visual appeal. 

Board and Batten Materials 

The Board and Batten look can be achieved with a variety of materials: vinyl, engineered wood, natural wood, metal products, or fiber cement siding. Each material has its own durability rating, insulation benefits, and aesthetic qualities. 

 

• Vinyl 

Pros: Vinyl is the most cost-effective form of Board and Batten siding and requires minimal maintenance. Vinyl manufacturers have developed the product to look much like painted wood at a much more affordable price. It is available in a variety of colors, though you will not be able to choose an exact color like you could with a painted product.  

Cons: Like any vinyl product, it has a shorter lifespan than other products (like fiber cement) and tends to become brittle and fade over time. 

 

• Engineered Wood

Pros: A step above vinyl, Engineered wood offers a more genuine, natural texture and offers endless color options when painted. Engineered wood is also generally more moisture-resistant than natural wood. 

Cons: Some types of engineered wood may fail prematurely due to moisture and expansion when absorbing water. To avoid these issues, regular and thorough maintenance is required. 

 

• Natural Wood

Pros: Natural wood is the classic choice for Board and Batten siding. Common types of wood include cedar, redwood, and pine. Natural wood can also be painted or stained to any color you desire. 

Cons: Like engineered wood, moisture and expansion issues need to be taken into account and addressed with regular maintenance.

 

• Metal Products

Pros: Products like steel and aluminum tend to be more expensive, but are extremely durable and provide a uniquely smooth texture.  

Cons: One challenge with metal materials is oil-canning, which occurs when the metal develops a rippled appearance. This is not a problem structurally, but can be visually noticeable. When it comes to steel, rust is an important factor to consider if the home is located in a moist environment. 

 

• Fiber Cement Siding 

Pros: This composite siding is extremely durable and more closely resembles the look of natural wood. Unlike metal options, it can be painted any color you prefer. 

Cons: Similar to metal products, this material comes at a higher price point.

 

 

Board and Batten Style Tips

You will see Board and Batten siding in a variety of settings – modern, traditional, craftsman, modern farmhouses, and even cabins. The wide range of material choices discussed above, and many paint/stain colors, create a variety of aesthetic options within the Board and Batten style. 

• Use it as an accent in a gable or on one portion of the home 
• Perfect for a porch ceiling finish 
• Pair it with brick or a cedar shaker accent 
• In Interior settings, Board and Batten can be used as an accent, and installed horizontally or vertically 

 

 

Board and Batten Gables

Some clients prefer to combine Board and Batten with standard horizontal siding. This adds visual interest in a subtle and cohesive way, as it can be painted to match the other materials exactly. For these projects, our clients chose to use fiber cement Board and Batten siding in the gable ends for added texture. Many of our clients choose the fiber cement option for its durability. 

 

 

Board and Batten Ceiling 

For this porch addition in Simpsonville, SC, we utilized a Board and Batten look to replicate the beams of the existing porch ceiling without the bulkiness. Using this method, we achieved the same aesthetic with a more streamlined appearance. 

 

 

Board and Batten Before & After

When planning their project, these Greenville homeowners decided to pair their addition with major exterior updates – replacing windows and siding. Their home was built in 1950, and after 75 years, the original siding was showing signs of rot and decay. They chose Board and Batten siding for its transitional appearance and elevated feel. The before and after photos speak for themselves. With its new siding installed, this home has a more modern look with a material that will stand the test of time. 

 

Board and Batten for Your Greenville Home 

If you like the look of Board and Batten siding, there are many ways to incorporate it into your project, and cost-effective materials are available for every budget. If you have questions about durability or how this siding would look with your home, Contact Us to speak with a Project Planner about your options! Our team would be happy to incorporate Board and Batten siding into your Greenville Home.