How to Install Board and Batten Siding

Looking for a trendy, yet timeless option for your home’s exterior? Board and batten siding may be the perfect choice. This design style—which is achieved through the vertical combination of wide planks (boards) and narrow strips (battens)—can be traced back to early barn designs from the 19th century. But the appeal of board and batten siding is coming back to the forefront of U.S. home designs due to its ability to add versatility and uniqueness to any aesthetic. 

Keep reading if you want to learn more about how to install board and batten siding.

Key takeaways: board and batten siding

• Board and batten siding can be completed using several different types of materials, including wood, vinyl, aluminum, and fiber cement.

• It can cost homeowners anywhere from $5,180 to $14,309 to install board and batten siding depending on the materials used, the size of their house, and whether or not they DIY it or hire a professional.

• It is important to remove any old siding on your home’s exterior before installing new board-and-batten siding.

How much does it cost to install board and batten siding?

Professional installation

Having board and batten siding professionally installed costs between $7,864 and $14,309, though it can depend on what it’s made from and the size of your home. While this may seem a bit steep, it’s important to remember that you’re hiring a professional who comes with the tools and expertise required to get the job done right.

DIY installation

To DIY a board-and-batten siding installation, it would cost between $5,180 and $9,426, though the material and size of your home can affect the cost. 

While this price tag may seem a bit more manageable, it won’t help if you lack construction experience. A siding professional has the time, expertise, quality of materials, and tools to do the job correctly. If you attempt the job yourself and run into issues or make mistakes, the cost of remediating a botched installation can surmount the price of hiring a professional.

Board and batten siding installation

Here’s a look at the installation process of board and batten siding.

Materials and tools needed

• Crowbar

• Hammer

• Nail gun

• Nails

• Screws

• Staple gun

• Staples

• Saw

• Plywood

• Underlayment 

• Boards

• Battens

• Caulk

• Caulk remover

• Paint

• Primer

• Paintbrush

Step 1: Remove old siding 

Before you can start installing your board-and-batten siding, you must remove any existing siding on your home. This will allow you to have a clean base for your project. Depending on the materials used for your old siding, you may need to use a crowbar to pull boards away from the exterior and a hammer to pry old nails free.

But exercise caution when removing any old materials to avoid damaging the exterior of your home. If you notice damage, wood rot, or pest infestations after removing the old siding, you will have to address these issues before you can install your new board-and-batten siding.

Step 2: Install underlayment and plyboard

Once you’ve removed the old siding, you can install your underlayment and plyboard. Start with the plyboard planks, securing each plank to the studs in your exterior wall with nails. Then start applying your underlayment material at the bottom of the wall and work your way up. If you’re using house wrap underlayment, staple it to the plyboard planks. If you’re using felt paper, you can either use staples or roofing nails.

Step 3: Install the skirt and trim

Before you can start putting up your boards and batten, you should also install a skirt and trim. Place the skirt board at the bottom of the wall where the siding will end, and make sure it is level before you secure it with nails. You can then install trim at the top of the wall, securing it with nails once it is level. Lastly, apply side trim to all edges of the siding, as well as around the windows and doors, to ensure a cleaner, more cohesive look when you put up your boards and battens.

Step 4: Install the boards

Now it’s finally time to install the boards. Attach the boards to your wall every 16” to 24”, fastening them onto the wall with screws or nails. But make sure you only screw down your boards on one side to allow for expansion or contraction, if needed.

Step 5: Install the battens

Once all boards are installed, measure and cut vertical strips, known as batten, to cover the gaps between the boards. Position them evenly over the seams and secure them with nails or screws.

Step 6: Caulk the seams

Next, add caulk to the seams between boards and boards to ensure moisture resistance. This helps to seal any gaps or holes that could allow water to infiltrate your siding. Don’t forget to caulk the seams between your trim and skirt as well!

Step 7: Paint 

To further protect your DIY board-and-batten siding, you should paint it. This will give your exterior that finished look and provide an extra layer of protection against any potential damage or weathering. Make sure to apply a layer of primer first and then follow the instructions provided by the exterior paint of your choice. 

Step 8: Clean up 

Before you call it a wrap, make sure you clean up any debris or sawdust and dispose of any leftover pieces of siding, trim, boards, or battens. If there is any excess caulk around the seams, take this time to carefully remove it with a utility knife or caulk remover tool as well. Finally, double-check that all of your boards and battens are properly aligned and secure.

Why you should hire a pro instead

Looking at the initial costs, you might be tempted to install board-and-batten siding yourself. But before you decide to DIY this project, you should consider how hiring a professional could benefit you more in the long run. Contractors usually have experience with different siding materials and techniques, ensuring a high-quality installation. These pros can also determine how to tackle any unforeseen issues that may arise during the process, like structural damage. This can save you both time and money, so contact a pro today.

Board and batten siding FAQ

Board and batten siding is an exterior style that utilizes wide boards and narrow strips called battens. The battens are installed to cover the seams between the boards to provide a textured, vertical line. This design enhances both the aesthetic appeal and durability of the siding, as the battens help protect the joints from weather damage. It’s commonly used in rustic, farmhouse, and traditional architecture.

Board and batten siding can be difficult to install because of the precision it requires. Boards and battens have to be cut and trimmed with exact measurements to ensure uniformity. You must also make sure everything is aligned and level when attaching them to the exterior. This kind of necessary detail will require more than one person, potentially making it more challenging for those looking to DIY install board and batten siding.

The cost of installing board and batten siding can vary, depending on what materials you use and the size of your home. A professional installation may range between $7,864 and $14,309, while a DIY installation may range between $5,180 and $9,426.

Yes, you can install board and batten siding yourself if you have the right skills and tools. This project involves precisely measuring, cutting, and securing boards and battens, as well as ensuring proper alignment and weatherproofing. If you’re comfortable with DIY projects and have some experience with carpentry, it could be a manageable project for you to tackle. But if you’re more uncertain about your skills, consulting a professional might be a safer option.