Board and batten siding has been a perennial choice for homeowners since the early 1900s. Its appeal lies in its uniquely vertical board. Characterized by its wide boards and narrow battens, board and batten offers a unique blend of farmhouse charm and modern elegance.
What is Board and Batten?
Board-and-batten siding is a type of exterior siding or cladding that consists of wide boards placed vertically with narrow strips, known as battens, covering the seams between them. The battens add strength and water resistance to the seams of the boards.
Originally the battens were used to cover the seams in an effort to waterproof barns. However, board and batten gained popularity in the Victorian era, adorning homes as a decorative exterior. Today, the vertical striping has regained its popularity and is frequently used in modern architecture.
Traditionally, wood was the primary material used for this siding, but today, you can find it in a variety of materials, including vinyl and fiber cement. This versatile siding option adds depth and texture to a building’s exterior, distinguishing it from other siding styles, such as lap siding or shingles.
Mixing vertical and horizontal siding can create a unique, upscale look for your home. Accent trim can make your board and batten pop even more. Consider black windows with white board and batten for a unique, contemporary look.
James Hardie Board and Batten
Crafted with high-quality fiber cement, James Hardie siding is known for its durability and longevity. Its board and batten fiber cement board is no exception. It can withstand snow, rain, and exposure to UV rays (a weakness in vinyl siding).
Because of its construction, James Hardie’s board and batten siding is resistant to shrinking, warping, and cracking, adding to its longevity. James Hardie fiber cement is naturally pest and rot resistant, making it suitable for extreme weather conditions.
James Hardie offers more than one width and style of board and batten, giving design flexibility, whether residing a classic Victorian home, siding a barn, or creating a unique look on modern architecture. Unlike vinyl solutions, James Hardie’s board and batten is applied by choosing vertical siding and then having the batten strips applied to complete the look.
The Right Siding For Your Home
Board and batten is only one type of siding that you can choose for your home. Visit our showroom or contact one of our project consultants to walk through design options and materials to create a timeless look that is both beautiful and durable.