With the variety of options available on the market today, deciding on new siding for your home can be a challenging task. Two popular choices are lap siding and board and batten siding. Each style brings its own unique appearance and practical benefits to the table. Below, we compare both types of siding, with insight into their different appearances, cost, durability, and more.Â
What Is Lap Siding?
Lap siding, also commonly referred to as clapboard siding, consists of horizontal panels that overlap each other, secured in place with nails or screws. The design creates an attractive layered look and sheds water away from the home’s structure. A classic choice that’s been around for centuries, it’s known for its versatility, and it’s available in a variety of materials, including wood, vinyl, fiber cement, and even metal.
There are several sub-varieties of lap siding, each with its own distinct appearance.
- Clapboard is a traditional option, featuring long and narrow boards installed horizontally with a slight overlap, creating a simple yet effective barrier against the elements.
- Dutch offers a twist on the classic clapboard by adding a concave curve cut into the top edge of each board, enhancing the shadow lines and giving depth to the facade.
- Shiplap, popular for its sleek modern farmhouse aesthetic, features boards that fit together snugly due to a special rabbet or notch cut along their edges.
What Is Board and Batten Siding?
Board and batten siding, originally used in barn construction, has become popular with homeowners in recent years, particularly among those seeking a more rustic or farmhouse-inspired aesthetic.Â
The siding consists of wide vertical boards (the “boards”) with narrower strips (the “battens”) covering the seams between the boards to create a textured, three-dimensional appearance and to repel water. Reverse board and batten uses narrow boards and wider battens.
As with lap siding, board and batten is crafted from various materials, each offering distinct advantages.
- Wood is a traditional and natural-looking choice that offers authenticity and warmth. However, it requires regular maintenance to protect against weathering. Cedar is a popular option.
- Vinyl is a low-maintenance and cost-effective alternative that mimics the look of wood and comes in a variety of colors, making it a versatile choice for homeowners seeking customization.
- Fiber cement provides durability and resistance to weather and pests, combining the appearance of wood with enhanced longevity.Â
- Metal, often used for a contemporary look, features a sleek, modern finish that stands out while being particularly resistant to environmental wear.
Lap Siding Vs. Board and Batten Siding
While lap siding and board and batten have similarities, there are a few factors where they differ, including appearance, cost, climate suitability, installation, and durability.
Appearance
Lap siding tends to create a more traditional, classic look. Its horizontal lines can make a house appear longer and lower, which is beneficial for taller homes or those on narrow lots. Colonial, Cape Cod, and Craftsman homes often pair well with lap siding.
Board and batten siding, on the other hand, offers a more dramatic, eye-catching appearance. The vertical lines can make a house appear taller and more imposing. This style is particularly effective at highlighting architectural features such as gables or dormers. Farmhouse, modern, and contemporary styles frequently have board and batten siding.
Cost
The cost of siding can vary widely depending on the material chosen, the home’s size, the complexity of installation, and the local labor rates.
Generally, lap siding tends to be slightly less expensive than board and batten, particularly when using vinyl or fiber cement. Vinyl clapboard and Dutch lap siding both tend to cost between $2 and $7 per square foot*. Vinyl board and batten can run you between $3 and $8 per square foot*.
Board and batten, especially with wood, can also incur higher initial expenses due to its intricate installation process and additional material requirements, but it can offer more long-term value.
*Costs in this article are sourced from contractor estimates used by Angi.
Climate Suitability and Durability
Both lap siding and board and batten are suitable for various climates, but their performance and longevity can differ based on installation and material choices.
They both offer protection from the elements, such as rain, snow, and wind. However, lap siding’s overlapping design provides an extra layer against moisture. If you install board and batten siding incorrectly, water may penetrate the seams. Well-maintained fiber cement and high-quality vinyl tend to last longer compared to other materials.Â
Additionally, in hot climates, light-colored siding of either style can help reflect sunlight, reduce heat absorption, and enhance the home’s energy efficiency.
Installation and Maintenance
You should install both lap siding and board and batten siding carefully to create the correct overlap and alignment, but board and batten can be more complex due to its vertical orientation. While some experienced DIY enthusiasts can tackle these projects, we recommend professional installation for most homeowners for a proper fit and better weather resistance.
Maintenance needs vary depending on the material, but both types are relatively easy to care for. Regular cleaning and occasional repainting or staining (for wood siding) are typically all you need to do to keep these siding options looking their best.
How To Use Both Lap Siding and Board and Batten
For homeowners who appreciate both styles, combining lap siding and board and batten can create a unique and visually appealing exterior.
For example, a multi-story home can use primarily lap siding, with board and batten installed on gables or upper stories to draw attention to the roofline’s architecture. Some homeowners also choose to use board and batten around windows or dormers. For a modern farmhouse look, you can use board and batten on the main structure and lap siding on any additions or porches.
