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How many boards and battens do I need?

Boards run vertically and battens cover each seam.

Boards

34 boards

Battens35 battens
Length of each9 ft

Estimated material cost

Boards

34 x $$25.00 per board

$850

Battens

35 x $$6.00 per batten

$210

Estimated total$1,060

Typical store prices before tax and delivery. Change any price to match your store.

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How to measure

Measure the length and height of each wall. Choose the board width you'll use.

Tips from the field

  • Leave about 1/2 inch between boards so the batten covers the gap with room to move.
  • Use corrosion-resistant nails and nail battens through the gap, not through both boards.

What you'll need

Siding boardsBattensStainless siding nailsExterior caulk

Common questions

How far apart should battens be?

One batten over every board seam. Boards are usually 8 to 12 inches wide.

Should boards touch each other?

Leave about 1/2 inch so the wood can move. The batten covers the gap.

What wood is best for board and batten?

Cedar, treated pine, or engineered siding like LP SmartSide for exteriors.

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