When using wide square edge boards for board and batten siding, which nail arrangement is correct for the batten strips?

When using wide square edge boards for board and batten siding, which nail arrangement is correct for the batten strips?

• A. at intervals of 4 inches or less
• B. only with un-coated nails
• C. solidly to the boards on both sides of the strip
• D. to only one siding board

Answer: (D)

Board and batten siding works by letting the horizontal boards move with moisture while the vertical batten covers the joint. The batten should be nailed to only one of the underlying boards, not through both sides. This secures the strip while allowing the boards to expand and contract, preventing splitting, buckling, or gaps as conditions change. (Using nails that aren’t corrosion-resistant or nailing through both boards would create other problems, and overly tight or unnecessary nail spacing isn’t required.)

Board and batten siding works by letting the horizontal boards move with moisture while the vertical batten covers the joint. The batten should be nailed to only one of the underlying boards, not through both sides. This secures the strip while allowing the boards to expand and contract, preventing splitting, buckling, or gaps as conditions change. (Using nails that aren’t corrosion-resistant or nailing through both boards would create other problems, and overly tight or unnecessary nail spacing isn’t required.)