Board and batten siding is typically installed by first placing wider boards and then covering the gaps between them with narrower battens.
The Board and Batten System
This classic siding style consists of vertical boards installed next to each other, often with a small gap in between. To create the distinctive look and provide weather protection, narrower strips of wood called battens are installed vertically over the gaps between the boards.
The installation process involves preparing the wall, installing the primary boards, and then adding the battens. The provided reference specifically details the steps for installing the battens.
Installing the Battens
According to the installation steps provided:
- Once any necessary top trim is installed, you need to cut your battens to the appropriate size. This ensures they fit correctly from top to bottom or between trim pieces.
- Starting at one corner of your house or the section you are working on, place the batten over the gap between the previously installed boards.
- Once you have the batten centered over the gap and checked that it is plumb (perfectly vertical), you can begin fastening it.
- Install the nails in specific locations:
- Place a nail on the bottom of the batten.
- Place a nail on the top of the batten.
- Install nails once every 18”-24” along the length of the batten.
This method ensures the batten is securely fastened while covering the gap between the boards, creating the characteristic board and batten appearance and weather seal.
While the boards are installed first, the process highlighted above focuses on the crucial step of adding the battens, which completes the look and function of the siding system.
