Board and batten siding brings customizable visual flair to any exterior design. Available in a diverse spectrum spanning light neutrals to deep, saturated accents, board, and batten siding provides endless options to enhance your home’s look.
Traditional wood siding comes in three color categories and can be modified through stains and paints. Modern materials like vinyl, steel, and cement broaden the possibilities even further – offering pre-finished colors to suit any style. Creative homeowners can choose complementary shades on alternating boards and battens for an eye-catching, two-tone color scheme.
With this versatility, you’re sure to find the perfect colors to transform the exterior beauty and character of your home. Read on to learn more about the varied palette and customization techniques to design your own signature board and batten facade.
| Material | Color Options |
| Wood | Natural wood tones in light, medium, and dark hues Staining allows modification while showing wood grain Painting covers grain for uniform color |
| Vinyl | Wide range of colors from neutrals to deep tones Special fade-resistant pigments used Unlimited color choices |
| Steel | Longest lasting material Available pre-finished in many colors Resists fading and weathering |
| Fiber Cement | Can mimic the look of real wood Takes paint easily for any color Pre-finished colors available |
Color Options for Real Wood Board and Batten Siding
Contents
Traditionally, board and batten siding has been made from real wood boards. Popular wood types used include cedar, cypress, redwood, and pine. If you opt for real wood siding, you’ll generally have three color categories to choose from:
Light Colors
On the lighter end of the spectrum, wood siding for board and batten is available in off-whites, light grays, tans, and cream colors. These pale neutrals give a home a refreshed, lightened appearance. However, lighter colors show dirt easily and require frequent cleaning.
Medium Colors
In the middle range of the color palette are medium wood tones in beiges, browns, and earthy reds. These are classic wood siding colors that strike a balance between light and dark. Medium colors hide dirt reasonably well.
Dark, Rich Colors
For a bold, dramatic look, the deepest tones for wood siding range from chocolate browns to near-black reddish browns. Darker wood colors conceal dirt the best of all and can absorb heat in winter.
Staining and Painting Wood Board and Batten Siding
The natural color of the wood species used will determine the base color tone. However, real wood siding can also be stained to alter the color. Stain allows the natural wood grain to show through while modifying the shade.
For even more color flexibility, wood siding can be painted in any hue imaginable. Painting obscures the natural wood grain, instead imparting a uniform painted surface. Just make sure to use an exterior-grade paint formulated to withstand sun, rain, snow, and temperature extremes.
Color Options for Alternate Board and Batten Siding Materials
While traditional wood remains a popular choice, several alternate materials for board and batten siding are also available:
Vinyl
Vinyl is the most affordable and low-maintenance siding option. It comes pre-finished in an unlimited spectrum of colors, from neutral creams and grays to bold red, blue, and green shades.
Fiber Cement
Fiber cement board and batten siding offer the look of wood with added durability. It can be painted any color or purchased pre-finished.
Steel
Steel board and batten is the longest-lasting material and is available factory-finished in a variety of colors. It’s easier to clean than wood but more expensive.
Colorfast Pigments and Protection
Premium vinyl, fiber cement, and steel sidings use special pigments and coatings to ensure color stability. Chromatix technology adds UV-blocking properties to prevent fading. These features keep the siding looking freshly painted for years, despite sun exposure and weathering.
Color Combination Ideas for Board and Batten Siding
Creative color combinations using different hues on the boards versus the battens can make a design statement. Here are aesthetically pleasing ideas to inspire your own color scheme:
- Light gray boards with white battens
- Light brown boards with dark brown battens
- Pale blue boards with crisp white battens
- Deep green boards with black battens
- Bright red boards with black or white battens
Tips for Choosing Colors for Your Board and Batten Siding
When selecting colors for your board and batten siding, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider your home’s architectural style. Traditional styles like Craftsman, farmhouse, and cottage look best in lighter, muted colors. More modern homes can pull off deeper, dramatic colors.
- Look at the color schemes of neighboring houses. Avoid close matches to homes next door. Complementary or contrasting colors work better.
- Factor in landscaping. Coordinate siding colors with plants, flowers, and trees around your home for a cohesive look.
- Think about the effect you want to achieve. Light, bright colors make spaces seem larger and more airy. Darker colors lend a snug, cozy feel.
- Look at color families. Monochromatic palettes using shades of one color are always stylish.
- Use color to highlight design features. For example, use light siding on the main house with a pop of bright color on an accent wall.
- Select colors that will withstand your climate. Darker colors absorb heat in cold regions. Pale colors show dirt in rainy climates.
- Pick timeless neutrals for long-lasting appeal, or choose fun colors to make a bold statement.
With board and batten siding, you have endless color possibilities for customizing your home’s exterior aesthetic. Choose wisely by selecting durable materials and harmonious hues perfect for your personal style and regional climate. Expert installation will ensure your new siding enhances and protects your home for many years to come.
