Managing Moisture Behind Board and Batten Siding

The board and batten style has experienced a resurgence as a popular exterior design aesthetic in recent years. Historically used in barns, the style originated in Scandinavian Europe but evolved significantly once it arrived on the American shores in mid 19th century.

While board and batten siding is typically made of wood, it can also be made from vinyl, fiber cement or even steel. But if you're worried about durability and curb appeal—and these days who isn't?—engineered wood siding is a smarter buy compared to traditional wood siding because it mimics its look but features greater durability and easier maintenance. 

Moisture Protection

"We have a saying in the industry: 'If it ain't dry, it's gonna die,'" says Jordan Smith, Chief Builder & Owner at Smith House Co. "Water infiltration is the number one reason for potential homeowner dissatisfaction, which is why you definitely want to get that part right." So, what can you do as a builder to ensure that your board and batten performs to homeowners' expectations?

The LP Advantage

For Smith, going with LP® SmartSide® siding as the material for the board and batten application is the clear answer. There is one simple reason for that, beyond it being known as the most durable siding. 

As Smith puts it: “LP SmartSide Vertical Siding requires a drainage gap, which solves a lot of problems before they have the chance to start. By combining LP SmartSide siding with LP WeatherLogic® Air & Water Barrier, you get a superior moisture barrier under wood siding as well as the benefit of getting the whole configuration from one trusted manufacturer.”

Smith also prefers LP products due to ease of installation. As Smith puts it: "In one trip around the house, I'm able to get all my structural sheathing up, as well as my air and water barrier installed. It all goes very quickly."

Beyond Moisture Management

Besides it being a durable wood siding option, Smith also uses LP SmartSide engineered wood for the board and batten application for another reason. Unlike many competitive products, LP SmartSide siding comes in 16' lengths, which allows for fewer seams on builds.

Want to learn more about how to install board and batten siding? Follow @lp_pros to watch Smith's friend and fellow contractor Kyle Stumpenhorst install LP products on his Oregon Music Garage build.