What is a board and batten fence?

Author: Melyssa Romaguera  |  Last update: Saturday, December 23, 2023

BOARD AND BATTEN FENCING IS A FULL PRIVACY FENCE STYLE SIMILAR TO A VERTICAL BOARD FENCE IN CONSTRUCTION, BUT BUILT WITH A DELIBERATE SPACE BETWEEN THE BACK BOARDS WHICH IS OVERLAYED WITH A “BATTEN BOARD” CREATING A PRIVATE FENCE PANEL.

What is the difference between board on board and board and batten fence?

Nailing boards on opposite sides of the rails is “board on board,” overlapping the boards on the same side of the fence is called “board and batten.” This type of fence provides a unique look, particularly when the rails are on the top and bottom of the boards.

What is the purpose of battens on a fence?

This type of fence uses a combination of wide boards and thinner strips referred to as battens. The battens are placed along the seams between the wider boards to effectively seal off any gaps. Both the boards and the battens are attached to the same side of the horizontal rail of your fence.

What kind of wood is used for board and batten?

What kind of wood is used for board and batten? You can use any kind of wood strips for interior board and batten, and even MDF. Exterior siding board and batten pieces are generally made of cedar furring strips.

What are the horizontal boards on a fence called?

The backer rails are the horizontal boards on a wood fence. There are typically three rows of backer rails going along the back of a standard 6-foot privacy fence. The backer rails screw into the fence posts to provide a support structure for the pickets.

Building a Board on Board Cedar Fence - Part 2

Are horizontal fences more expensive?

Horizontal fences tend to be more expensive than vertical fences because they require a higher grade of lumber for the fence boards to reduce the possibility of sagging. Even so, like any horizontally-oriented board, they may sag over time.

What are the different styles of fencing?

What Are The Different Types of Wood Fences?
  • Wood Picket Fence. iStock. ...
  • Post and Rail Fence. iStock. ...
  • Wood Lattice Fence. GAP Photos. ...
  • Louver Fence. GAP Photos. ...
  • Vertical Board Fence. iStock. ...
  • Ornamental Fence. iStock. ...
  • Vinyl Fence. iStock. ...
  • Composite Wood Fence. Boards made of a sawdust and plastic blend with solid wood posts and rails.

Is board and batten expensive?

Board and batten can range anywhere between $5 and $12 per square foot while horizontal vinyl siding usually costs between $2 and $6 per square foot.

Does board and batten add value?

Yes, it can. Board and batten is custom millwork. If done tastefully, it can add value to your home by giving it a more custom look. Adding board and batten to a home that has mostly builder-grade finishes can help the home stand out when it's time to sell.

What is an alternative to board and batten?

If you're looking for a low-maintenance alternative to wood board-and-batten siding, consider steel siding from TruLog in place of Hardie Board. Fiber cement may be a lower maintenance option than wood, but it's still not as easy to install or as long-lasting as steel.

What are the advantages of batten board?

Protective qualities – Board and batten provide a protective barrier that helps protect your home from water damage, rot, etc. It's made up of planks with vertical grooves which form an impenetrable wall to prevent leaks in harsh weather conditions like rain or snowfall.

Why is it called a batten?

Batten comes from the name for an iron bar used to secure the covering of a hatchway on a ship, which was especially useful in preparation of stormy weather.

What is the purpose of board and batten?

So, what is “board and batten?” It's a type of siding where thin strips of wood molding—or “battens”—are placed over the seams of panel boards. The result is an aesthetic that is both rustic and chic, with the strong vertical lines providing shadows and textures to the home exterior.

What are the cons of board on board fence?

Disadvantage: Cost- Since additional boards are required and it takes additional time to install these 2 layers it does cost a bit more for a board on board fence. You will be shocked though how economical it really is for this added layer of privacy.

Why is board and batten so expensive?

Usually, the installation process takes longer and requires specialized tools. Board and batten siding is often made from wood, so using this material as your siding will make the price automatically higher. However, the cost can be lower if you choose fiber cement or metal board and batten siding.

Where does board and batten look best?

Adding a pop of color with a board and batten accent wall in the master bedroom can be a fun addition. Primary bedrooms are one of the top board and batten installation places because they're an easy way to give your space character and an especially great element for an accent wall behind your bed.

What is the lifespan of board and batten?

While the material you choose will affect the lifespan of your board and batten siding, on average, this style should last approximately 25 years, especially if you choose vinyl, which is the most popular option. It could last longer if you use a more durable material such as fiber cement.

Is board and batten low maintenance?

As you can see, board and batten siding offers more than just aesthetic appeal. Its durability, versatility, energy efficiency, low maintenance requirements, and timeless appeal make it a compelling choice for homeowners looking to enhance the beauty and functionality of their homes.

Is board and batten too trendy?

"Board and batten is a timeless siding technique that can be [enjoyed] in various architectural styles—from vernacular and Victorian to modern and contemporary," notes Neubert. "Architects will continue to experiment with this siding technique for the foreseeable future."

What is the best material for board and batten?

Highly durable and weather resistant, fiber cement is a long-lasting material that holds up well in all sorts of climates and conditions. Comparatively, fiber cement board and batten siding is significantly more durable and longer-lasting than other siding materials.

How much is labor to install board and batten?

Labor. The total cost to install board and batten siding averages $2.25 to $12.50 per square foot. While professionals will likely give you one per square foot price that includes both materials and installation, their labor typically comes out to about $1.75 to $2.25 per square foot.

How thick is board and batten?

How thick should board and batten be? If you're dealing with a smaller bedroom in a house with 8 ft ceilings, you'll want to use something in the 2.5” to 3.5” width range for the trim work.

What is the most affordable fencing option?

Chain link fencing is a cheap fencing type that can serve your home for many years. This type of fencing's primary role is the creation of physical barriers for entry of intruders and the exit of pets and children at school playgrounds. The material is highly durable cheap and requires little maintenance.

Which fence style is best?

Use a solid, tall vinyl fence to add privacy and security to your yard. Or, use a white picket-style fence to increase your curb appeal and enclose your property. While this option has a higher upfront cost, over time, it requires less maintenance, making this a cost-effective choice over its life.

Which fencing style is most realistic?

As there are no rules as to when and where on the body you can hit your opponent, Épée is a purer and more realistic representation of traditional duelling.”

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