In the United States, board and batten siding was developed as a more efficient alternative to the log cabin. Barns and homes with board and batten cladding were influenced by Nordic European architecture and were popular in the United States during the mid-nineteenth century.

While historically, board and batten siding was made of wood, today, it’s made of various materials. That means modern homeowners have more options.

Having installed board and batten professionally, I prefer board and batten over common lap-style siding. I find the structure and installation are more robust than lap-style.


What Is Board and Batten Siding?

Board and batten siding consists of wide vertical planks (boards) linked together by thin vertical strips (battens) to hide the seams. Homesteaders and farmers used sawmills to cut the longboards, and battens made the building as airtight as possible.

Farmers preferred this style because it was an economical, straightforward, and energy-efficient way to construct barns. The wide boards allow quick installation with simple tools. The thin battens cover gaps between boards, protecting interiors from drafts and pests.

Today, board and batten remains a popular type of siding for its rustic charm and unique visual appeal. It’s commonly used on Craftsman, farmhouse, and cottage-style homes. Modern materials like engineered wood, fiber cement, and vinyl have expanded material options and benefits while maintaining the characteristic look.


Top 3 Manufacturers

1. Kaycan

Kaycan manufactures and sells vinyl, aluminum, and engineered wood siding, accessories, coil, windows, and patio doors.

vinyl siding
Image Credit: Canva

As mentioned on its website, Kaycan operates some of the world’s most advanced factories. Its products are distributed in 35 countries worldwide through over 4 million square feet of manufacturing facilities across 18 plants.

Kaycan products come in various colors and designs that are attractive and functional. For over 40 years, it has been devoted to quality and innovation, consistently delivering value to consumers.

Benefits of Kaycan board and batten siding include:

  • Durable PVC, resisting warping and fracture
  • UV-protected colors that remain vibrant over time
  • Thick siding that provides strength and rigidity
  • Good resistance against impacts and severe weather
  • Low-maintenance and easy-to-clean
  • 50-year limited warranty

Overall, Kaycan is an excellent option for durable and reliable vinyl board and batten siding. Their expansive operations make their products widely available.

2. CertainTeed

For over 110 years, CertainTeed has shaped the building products market by developing responsible, creative, and sustainable construction materials.

This is the top brand of exterior and interior building products in North America, including roofing, siding, insulation, decking, railing, trim, gypsum, fencing, and ceilings. The company was founded in 1904 as General Roofing Manufacturing.

CertainTeed offers board and batten siding in various materials:

  • Fiber cement — Durable, fire-resistant, and low-maintenance, fiber cement has a class A fire rating and a lifetime limited warranty.
  • Polymer — Molded polymers can simulate a variety of textures, are flexible, fade-resistant, and have a lifetime limited warranty.
  • Vinyl — Available in wide profiles up to 12 inches. Vinyl can withstand weather extremes, is fade-resistant, and comes with a lifetime limited warranty.

These products come with extensive color and style options. CertainTeed’s brand recognition, quality, and warranties guarantee lasting performance.

3. Westlake Royal Building Products

For 50 years, Westlake Royal has led the industry in beauty, versatility, performance, and breadth. It’s a highly responsive resource for homes and professionals, from inspiration to installation.

wood siding
Image Credit: Canva

Westlake Royal manufactures a full spectrum of exterior claddings, including vinyl, wood, and composite sidings. Its products feature finishes that mimic wood, offering various styles, from traditional to contemporary profiles. Its distribution network across the U.S. makes its products readily available.

With extensive board and batten product options, Westlake Royal can match any home’s aesthetic. Its quality standards and warranties are top-shelf.


Benefits of Board and Batten Siding

Beyond its distinctive visual style, board and batten siding offers several performance advantages:

  • Thick boards provide excellent insulation and efficiency
  • Battens create a moisture barrier to keep walls dry
  • Engineered wood resists rot, termites, and fire
  • Only needs periodic repainting or re-staining
  • Variety of colors complement any architectural style

Thanks to manufacturing innovations, board and batten maintains its rustic charm while improving durability. This makes it a great choice for many home design styles.


Costs

Board and batten siding costs depend on the following:

  • Fiber cement is the most‌ expensive, followed by engineered wood, vinyl, and cellular PVC
  • Profile depth — Deeper planks (8”–12”) cost more than thinner versions (4”–6”)

More siding means a lower per-square-foot price 

Removing old siding adds labor

Multi-story homes have added costs

DIY ‌costs less than hiring a contractor

Expect to pay $6 to $12 per square foot installed. Fiber cement averages $12 per square foot, while vinyl and cellular PVC cost $6 to $9 per square foot.

Get estimates from a few local siding contractors to account for your home’s specifics. Use a siding calculator to determine how much siding you need.


So, Is Board and Batten Siding a Good Choice?

Board and batten siding brings unique visual appeal to exteriors. The signature look works well on craftsman, farmhouse, cottage, and rustic designs. Advances in materials provide aesthetics with improved durability and less maintenance.

While fiber cement and real wood offer premium performance, vinyl and cellular PVC give budget-friendly options. No matter the material, board and batten siding adds curb appeal, weather resistance, and style. If the rustic look fits your home, board and batten is an excellent choice.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best material for board and batten siding?

Fiber cement and engineered wood provide premium aesthetics and performance but cost more. For affordability with good durability, opt for vinyl or cellular PVC.


How long does board and batten siding last?

With proper installation and maintenance, expect siding to last 20–50 years, depending on the material. Fiber cement and engineered wood last the longest.


Does board and batten siding add value?

Yes, this unique rustic style enhances curb appeal. It also represents quality construction, efficiency, and character that buyers want.


Can you install board and batten over existing siding?

I wouldn’t advise installing new siding on top of existing siding. Some people claim that it can be done, and strictly speaking, they aren’t wrong. However, the potential risks outweigh the benefits. Removing old siding isn’t an expensive process.


Editorial Contributors
avatar for Doug Sluga

Doug Sluga

Doug Sluga is a professional roofer and carpenter with ten years of experience in residential and commercial construction. His expertise spans the breadth of the roofing trade from minor repairs to laying shingles to framing trusses. These days he spends most of his time writing about roofing and the roofing industry.

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Casey Daniel

Casey Daniel is a writer and editor with a passion for empowering readers to improve their homes and their lives. She has written and reviewed content across multiple topics, including home improvement, lawn and garden care, sustainability, and health and wellness. When she’s not reviewing articles, Casey is usually playing board games, repainting her bathroom, or quilting.

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