Installing Board and Batten Siding in Seattle, WA

Large square window alongside a white door on a covered front porch of an urban house

Installing board and batten siding delivers a transformative appeal to any home, offering a unique blend of traditional aesthetics and modern durability. At KV construction LLC in Seattle, WA, we specialize in this type of siding, emphasizing a streamlined installation process that assures both longevity and aesthetic pleasure.

Essential Tools and Materials

To begin, you’ll need to gather all necessary tools and materials to ensure a smooth installation:

  • Corrugated nails
  • A reliable hammer or nail gun
  • Exterior trim for neat finishes
  • A sturdy skirt board to anchor the installation
  • Optional paint or stain for color pre-treatment
  • Battens and boards for the siding
  • Drip edge to prevent water ingress
  • A level to ensure even installation

Preparation Steps

Preparation is key to a successful installation:

  1. If your materials are untreated, apply a coat of paint or stain to all boards and battens. Allow them to dry completely.
  2. Inspect your home’s existing exterior. Remove any deteriorated boards and secure any loose elements like wood trim or old siding.
  3. Clear old caulking around windows and doors to ensure a tight fit for the new siding.
  4. Remove any obstructions such as downspouts or exterior light fixtures to provide a clean surface for installation.

Installation Process

Once your site is prepared, follow these steps to install your siding:

  1. Start by aligning your skirt board along the base of the wall where the siding will terminate. Ensure it is level before securing it with nails spaced every 18 to 24 inches. Apply a metal flashing to support the drip edge.
  2. Position the first siding board at one corner of the house, making sure it is flush and plumb. Secure the board at the top and bottom, adding nails at intervals along its length.
  3. Measure and plan the spacing between the boards according to the width of your battens, which should overlap the gap by at least 0.75 inches on each side.
  4. Continue with the next board, aligning and nailing it in place. Repeat this process, ensuring each board is level and plumb as you proceed around the house.
  5. For areas around windows, take precise measurements and tailor the boards to fit, installing them above and below the windows.

Finishing the Installation

After all boards are in place:

  1. Cut and fit battens to cover the gaps between boards. Start from one corner and work your way around the house, ensuring each batten is centered and plumb.
  2. Secure each batten with nails spaced 18 to 24 inches apart.
  3. Install top trim if desired, and add corner trims to enhance the aesthetic of the junctions, giving a polished look to the entire installation.

By following these detailed steps, you not only enhance the beauty of your home but also protect it with a durable and appealing exterior siding solution.