Your Guide to Board and Batten Siding on Home Exteriors

By:

Board and batten siding has remained a tried and true choice for homeowners and home builders alike for literally centuries. Its clean lines and timeless appeal make it a solid choice for style and charm. Originally used on farmhouses and barns, it’s evolved to be one of the most popular siding materials around. Not only does it maximize curb appeal, but it’s also highly versatile.

From material options to color choices, every detail matters. Keep reading to learn why board and batten has stood the test of time.

Not looking for big changes currently? Consider our paint visualizer package for a simple transformation with just paint. If you do need help with other aspects of your exterior, we’ve got you covered there too. Learn all about our virtual exterior design services.

Our designers only use and recommend products that we know, love, or would use on our own properties. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. 

A blue two-story home with board and batten siding, white windows, wood lintels, and a wood portico.

What is board and batten siding?

Board and batten siding consists of wide vertical planks (boards) with narrower strips (batten) covering the seams. This creates a distinctive, textured look. The vertical lines add height, making homes appear taller and more refined. This type of siding works on entire exteriors or as an accent. Our designers have done both many, many times with excellent results. Many homeowners pair it with other materials like brick, stone, or horizontal lap siding. The combination adds depth and character for a visually striking façade.

Digital rendering of a dark brown modern home with board and batten siding, wood garage doors, and black windows.

Why homeowners love board and batten

Board and batten offers more than just curb appeal. It’s also durable, versatile, and offers a range of design possibilities. Here’s why so many homeowners easily choose it as their choice of siding:

  • Classic appeal –  This style blends well with farmhouses, craftsman style,  modern, and coastal homes.
  • Versatile design – Looks fantastic as both a full exterior or as an eye catching accent element.
  • Increased curb appeal – Adds dimension,  creating a polished, high end look.
  • Durability – Depending on the materials, it can withstand the elements for decades.
  • Customization – Available in wood, fiber cement (such as James Hardie board), vinyl, and metal for various styles and preferences.
WE ALWAYS RECOMMEND SAMPLING AND TESTING PAINT COLORS BEFORE COMMITTING. FACTORS SUCH AS NATURAL LIGHTING, UNDERTONES, AND YOUR PROPERTY’S FIXED ELEMENTS WILL HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON HOW A COLOR WILL APPEAR ON YOUR EXTERIOR. OUR FRIENDS AT SAMPLIZE OFFER EXTRA-LARGE 9 X 14.75 INCH PEEL-AND-STICK PAINT SAMPLES OF THE COLORS WE LOVE FOR EXTERIORS. ORDER YOUR ‘REAL PAINT, NO MESS’ SAMPLES FROM SAMPLIZE HERE.
A small home with board and batten siding, a wood front door, white windows, and a front porch lounge area.

Best materials for board and batten siding

The material you choose impacts both the appearance and longevity. Each option offers unique benefits, so selecting the right one is essential, but also determined by your own personal needs.

Wood

Wood has a natural, warm look. A popular choice is cedar as it’s resistant to rot and pests. However, wood requires regular maintenance, including staining or painting. With proper care though, it can last for decades.

Fiber cement

Fiber cement siding mimics the look of wood without the upkeep. It resists moisture, fire, and pests, making it a long-lasting option. Available in pre-painted or primed finishes, it also holds up well in extreme weather conditions.

Vinyl

Vinyl board and batten siding is affordable and low maintenance. It won’t fade, crack, or warp, making it fuss-free and ideal for busy homeowners. Though not as authentic looking as wood or fiber cement, modern options come in realistic textures and colors.

Metal

For an industrial style, metal siding is a bold alternative. Steel and aluminum are surprisingly lightweight, fire-resistant, and long lasting. This option is great for contemporary and minimalist home exteriors.

Digital rendering of a modern white farmhouse with black windows, black shingles, and stone skirting.

Choosing the right colors for your home

Color plays a major role in the overall impact of board and batten siding. Lighter shades create a fresh and airy feel, while darker tones add sophistication and drama.

For a crisp, clean look that is fantastic for modern farmhouses and coastal homes, try a bright white or even a creamy white. Shades like Benjamin Moore’s Seapearl, and Alabaster and Greek Villa by Sherwin Williams® are popular choices and look great on any style home. We also love to apply greiges on board and batten for a classic exterior that’s elegant, but modern.

A neutral gray pairs well with wood and stone accents while going darker with black is dramatic, but stunning. For darker colors, we love Kendall Charcoal by Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams® Black Fox. Dark colors really show off the texture of board and batten, plus make a gorgeous backdrop for landscaping.

Of course, we can’t talk about paint colors without talking about green. Earthy tones like sage or olive add an organic touch and have a welcoming vibe. Our designers love to apply Benjamin Moore’s Aegean Olive and Sherwin Williams® Cast Iron to homes that are surrounded by nature to ground them and connect with the environment.

Transitional modern home with limewashed brick, wood cladding, black windows, and black front doors.

Board and batten as an accent

If you’re not ready to commit to a full exterior of board and batten, consider using it as an accent. It’s the perfect way to enhance gables, entryways, and garages, adding textural interest without overwhelming the exterior or you.

As we mentioned earlier, many homeowners mix board and batten with other building materials such as brick, stone, or horizontal siding for a custom exterior. Doing so balances modern and traditional styles, creating a unique home that stands out from the rest.

Traditional style, sage green home with stone accents, a wood door, and a porch swing.

Installation considerations

Proper installation ensures board and batten siding will last for years to come. Below are a few key factors to keep in mind:

  • Spacing – The width of the boards and battens affect the entire look. Wider boards are considered bolder, while narrower ones seem more traditional and delicate.
  • Weather protection: Caulking and sealing gaps prevent moisture damage. However, fiber cement and vinyl provide extra prevention and resistance in wet or humid climates.
  • Painting and staining – If using wood, be sure to apply a high quality paint, stain, or sealant to protect against the elements.
  • Professional vs DIY – Skilled homeowners can tackle the project if they’re confident, but professional installation is always a safe bet and should come with a warranty.

Navy farmhouse with white trim, metal awnings, white porch columns, and black windows.

Maintaining board and batten siding

Routine maintenance keeps your siding pristine and lengthens its life.  Different materials require different levels of care:

  • Wood – You’ll want to repaint or stain every few years. Check for signs of rot or warping during this time as well.
  • Fiber cement – This type can be cleaned with a mild detergent. You should check for cracks annually.
  • Vinyl – Rinsing with a hose and a mild soap to remove dirt and mildew is all that’s needed.
  • Metal – May need washing occasionally to prevent buildup and check for rust if you installed steel.

Remember, regular upkeep extends the lifespan of your siding, saving you time and money in the long run.

A modern one story home with black picture windows, black exterior lighting, and low-maintenance landscaping.

You can’t go wrong with board and batten

Board and batten siding is an excellent way to level up your home’s exterior and add curb appeal. It’s relatively low maintenance and has big returns with its longevity. Its versatility makes it a go-to choice for homeowners looking to add character and charm to their home. Whether you’re looking for a full exterior application or an accent area, this style will elevate any home.

Board and batten may be exactly what your home is missing. To see if that’s the case, all we need are your answers to our short questionnaire for our designers to get started! We’ll even provide a shoppable resource list so getting started is as easy as clicking a few links. Get started here.

Author

Originally from Tennessee, Ami currently lives in South Carolina, which has been home since leaving the military in 2016. Interior and exterior design has always intrigued Ami, especially the styles and characteristics seen in other countries as an avid traveler and photographer. She lives for the renewal of older or historic homes that maintain their character, and regularly creates her own mood boards and virtual designs for inspiration or to help others with their spaces. Having always had a passion for design and following their work for years prior, Ami was excited to be brought onto brick&batten’s team of writers. Her writing endeavors actually started in an academic/scientific setting, then in a regulatory aspect. Writing about paint colors, emerging or current trends in exterior design, and so much more revolving around something she’s always enjoyed was a fun and welcomed change!

Schedule a Complimentary Call