Replies

1. 
   davo304_ | Jun 23, 1999 10:13am | #1

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   Kristin,

   It really depends on the look you're after:
   Board & Batten..........vertical look
   Clap Board..............horizontal look

   Usually, clap board siding is more expensive. Don't use the imitation lap siding by Georgia Pacific, this stuff has a bad track history, in that it is known to mildew and fall apart. Board and batten is good if your walls are 8 ft. high or less, so that you do not have to worry about putting a flashing strip between vertical panels; which otherwise you must do to keep water from getting behind them. Make a sketch of your house and then superimpose vertical lines and then draw another with horizontal lines. This may give you a better perspective on what design you favor. Also, a combination of both sometimes looks good; its just a matter of personal taste.

2. 
   Guest_ | Jun 23, 1999 10:35am | #2

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   For your own house it really depends on what would fit in, in terms of the style of your house, the age (wasn't it 100+ years old?), the setting, etc, and what the inhabitants prefer. When I read you post re: the foundation for the addition, I immediately pictured a nice, old farm house sided with claps.

   I do think you get a better weather envelope with claps, there is less of a stability problem with claps vs wide plank boards, and that, as davo mentioned, claps can be run vertically forever, where with B&B you'll have seams to contend with depending on wall height.

   For finishing (my opinions), in a wooded setting I like natural cedar claps, with a clear finish. If it is in more of a subdivision-like location, backprime and use a solid stain. For board and batten, I've seen some unstable wood resulting in severe cupping and checking of the boards. That can be minimized by sealing the boards. Ensure they are painted prior to installation, as contraction and expansion of the boards may allow unpainted wood to peek through is they are painted after installation. Careful with the nailing schedule of the wide boards as well. Too many nails can result in the boards ripping themselves apart during seasonal movement.

   Use stainless fasteners if you choose cedar or a similar wood for stain resistance.

   Personally, I prefer claps. I realize that board and batten has a place in this world, but it's just not in my world.

   Regards, Mongo

3. 
   DonPapenburg_ | Jun 24, 1999 07:42am | #3

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   I would go with claps on the house and save the board and batton for the barn or shed.

4. 
   Guest_ | Jun 24, 1999 07:58am | #4

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   Well Boys, my vote goes for board and batten.

   With the proper choice of material (as is the case with all wood siding) matched to the proper installation procedures, it will last just as long and be just as effective as any other wood siding.

   With regards to lenghts, we have routinely installed them in 16 foot long strips. We sort our lumber and ensure that the grain allows for any cupping that may occur to tighten the seal as opposed to openning. We completely seal both sides and edges of every piece.

   As with all materials used in construction today, installation and quality of material determine the quality of the work and the longevity of the installation.

   Gabe

1. 
   Guest_ | Jun 25, 1999 06:27am | #6

   *Us Vermonters prefer clapbords? The real question for Kristin is what kind of house is it? Contemporary,colonial,cape,gambrell or salt box. Etc.... I like the look of B&B on a salt box. I think it makes a difference.

5. 
   Kristin | Jun 25, 1999 06:27am | #5

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   Making siding decision this week. Considering board and batten or clapboard. Looking for advice as to pros/cons of either style and best materials and finishes. Any tips?