When it comes to updating the look of your home, two popular options that often come up are board and batten and shiplap. Both styles can give your walls a beautiful, textured finish, but they each offer something a little different.
Board and batten has a classic, rustic feel with vertical panels and strips, while shiplap is sleek and modern, featuring horizontal planks with a clean, overlapping design.
Choosing between the two can be tricky, but understanding the differences can help you decide which one best fits your space.
In this blog, I’ll discuss the look, installation, maintenance, and cost of board and batten versus shiplap so you can make the best choice for your home.
What Is Board and Batten and Shiplap?
Board and batten and shiplap are two popular ways to style your walls, and each one gives your space a unique look.
Board and Batten consists of wide wooden boards that are placed vertically on your wall, with narrow strips (called battens) placed over the seams between the boards. This creates a textured, layered look. Board and batten are often used for a more rustic or traditional style and can add height to your room because of their vertical lines.
Shiplap is made of horizontal wooden planks that overlap slightly. It has a smooth, clean look and is often used for a more modern or farmhouse feel. Because of the horizontal lines, shiplap can make a room feel wider and more open.
Both styles are great choices, but each brings its own vibe to a room!
Differences Between Board and Batten and Shiplap
While board and batten and shiplap both look amazing on walls, they have some important differences that can affect how they look in your space.
Installation Direction
- Board and Batten: The boards are installed vertically with narrow strips (battens) covering the seams. This creates a bold, structured look.
- Shiplap: The boards are installed horizontally, overlapping slightly. This creates clean, straight lines across the wall.
Style and Look
- Board and Batten: This style often has a more traditional or rustic feel. The vertical lines can make a room feel taller and more dramatic.
- Shiplap: Shiplap gives a sleek and modern look, often used in farmhouse or coastal designs. The horizontal lines can make a room feel wider and more spacious.
Texture and Feel
- Board and Batten: The narrow battens over the wide boards create a more textured, layered look.
- Shiplap: Shiplap has a smooth and uniform appearance with evenly spaced planks, making it cleaner.
Versatility
- Board and Batten: This style can be used on walls, ceilings, and even as wainscoting (the lower part of a wall). It’s also great for adding drama to larger rooms.
- Shiplap: While shiplap is often used on walls, it can also be used on ceilings. Its modern style works well in more casual or coastal spaces.
In the end, the choice between board and batten and shiplap comes down to the look you’re going for in your space. Both styles can transform a room, but one might be a better fit depending on your style and the feel you want to create!
Board and Batten vs. Shiplap: Looks, Style, and Design
When it comes to styling your space, both board and batten and shiplap offer unique looks and bring different vibes to a room. Understanding the key differences in their appearance, style, and design can help you choose the right one for your home.
| Feature | Board and Batten | Shiplap |
|---|---|---|
| Orientation | Vertical panels with narrow battens covering seams | Horizontal planks that overlap slightly |
| Style | Traditional, rustic, or classic look | Sleek, modern, coastal, or farmhouse look |
| Visual Impact | Bold, dramatic, textured design | Clean, smooth, and simple appearance |
| Effect on Room Size | Makes a room feel taller (vertical lines) | Makes a room feel wider and more open (horizontal lines) |
| Texture | Textured, layered look with visible seams | Smooth and uniform with subtle lines |
| Vibe | Adds structure and depth, often used in formal settings | Creates a light, airy, and spacious atmosphere |
| Best For | Larger rooms, entryways, hallways, or high-ceiling spaces | Smaller rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, or coastal homes |
| Maintenance | More detailed cleaning due to seams between battens | Easier to clean with fewer seams |
| Use in Modern Homes | Adds classic style and feel | Commonly used in contemporary or farmhouse-style homes |
| Mixing with Other Styles | Pairs well with vintage, traditional, or modern settings | Fits easily with minimalist, modern, or coastal décor |
Both styles bring character to your home, but choosing between them comes down to the overall mood and feel you want for your space! If you’re going for a classic or modern coastal vibe, each style offers something special to your design.
Cost and Installation: Board and Batten vs. Shiplap
When choosing between board and batten and shiplap, consider both cost and installation to determine which option best fits your budget and skill level.
Cost of Materials
-
Board and Batten: Typically more expensive, especially if using wood. Materials cost $1-$5 per linear foot, with installation ranging from $2-$5 per square foot for professionals. DIY can save money, but it’s more time-consuming.
- Shiplap: More affordable, costing $0.50-$3 per linear foot for basic materials. Professional installation costs $1-$3 per square foot. It’s easier for DIYers to install due to its simpler design.
Installation Costs
- Board and Batten: If you hire a professional, installation costs typically range from $2 to $5 per square foot, depending on complexity and labor rates in your area. DIY installation can save you some money.
- Shiplap: Shiplap is easier and faster to install. For professional installation, expect to pay $1 to $3 per square foot. If you choose to do it yourself, installation is relatively simple and can be completed with minimal tools.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
-
Board and Batten: DIY Installation can be a bit tricky because you need to ensure the battens line up properly with the larger boards. It also requires more precise cutting and measuring. Professional installation can raise the cost but may be worth it for a more polished and accurate look.
- Shiplap: If you’re looking to save on costs, shiplap is easier to install. Because of its overlapping design and easier alignment, most DIYers can tackle this project without too much difficulty. For a professional installation, shiplap is less expensive and faster to install than board and batten, making it a more budget-friendly option for larger spaces.
Both options can be cost-effective depending on your material choices, installation method, and project size. Choose the one that best fits your budget, skill level, and desired look!
How to Choose Between Board and Batten vs. Shiplap?
Choosing between board and batten and shiplap depends on a few key factors such as the look you’re aiming for, the size of the space, and your budget.
1. Consider the Style of Your Home
- Board and Batten: If you’re going for a traditional, rustic, or vintage feel, board and batten is a great choice. It adds texture and depth, making it perfect for spaces where you want to create a classic or dramatic look.
- Shiplap: If your style is more modern, coastal, or farmhouse, shiplap is a better fit. It creates a clean, sleek look and is great for spaces that need an open, airy feel.
2. Think About the Space
- Board and Batten: The vertical lines of board and batten can help heighten a room, making it a great choice for rooms with high ceilings or narrow spaces. It’s also great for creating a focal point in a larger room.
- Shiplap: The horizontal lines of the shiplap are ideal for making a room feel wider or more open, so it works well in smaller rooms or spaces where you want to create a more spacious feel (e.g., bathrooms, kitchens, or bedrooms).
3. Budget
- Board and Batten: This style can be more expensive due to the materials and complexity of installation. If you’re working with a larger space or prefer a custom look, board and batten may cost more overall.
- Shiplap: Shiplap is usually the more affordable option, especially if you’re using MDF or pine. The simpler installation also helps save money on labor costs if you’re planning to do it yourself.
4. Maintenance
- Board and Batten: The gaps between the boards and battens can collect dust and dirt, so they may require more frequent cleaning. However, they’re easy to paint or touch up.
- Shiplap: Since shiplap has fewer seams and a smoother surface, it tends to be easier to clean and maintain. It’s also less likely to trap dust and dirt, making it more low-maintenance than board and batten.
6. Long-Term Durability
- Board and Batten: This style tends to age gracefully and can give your space a timeless, classic look. It’s a great choice if you want something that will stand the test of time.
- Shiplap: Shiplap is durable but may lean toward a more trendy style. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something fresh and modern, but keep in mind that tastes can change over time.
Choose Board and Batten if you want a classic, textured look or if you have a larger space that could benefit from the dramatic effect of vertical lines.
Choose Shiplap if you prefer a clean, modern, coastal feel or if you want something more budget-friendly and easier to install. It’s great for smaller rooms or places where you want to create a more open, spacious vibe.
Ultimately, both options can transform a room, but it’s important to consider your style preferences, space size, budget, and installation skills to make the right choice.
Maintenance: Board and Batten vs. Shiplap
Both board and batten and shiplap are relatively easy to maintain, but they do require some care to keep them looking their best over time. Here’s a look at how to maintain each style:
1. Board and Batten Maintenance
- Cleaning: The vertical panels and narrow battens can collect dust and dirt in the seams. To clean, use a soft cloth or a dusting brush to remove dust from the surface gently.
- Painting and Touch-Ups: Board and batten may need touch-ups over time, especially in high-traffic areas. If the paint or finish starts to wear off, you can sand the affected area and reapply paint or stain.
- Wood Care: If your board and batten is made of wood, it may need to be treated with wood polish or wax to maintain its shine. Periodically inspect the wood for any signs of damage, like cracks or splits, and address them promptly.
2. Shiplap Maintenance
Cleaning: Shiplap has fewer seams and a smoother surface than board and batten, so it’s easier to clean. Use a soft cloth or microfiber duster to remove dust.
Painting and Touch-Ups: Shiplap may also require touch-ups on painted surfaces if the paint starts to chip or fade. Use touch-up paint to cover small areas, or re-paint the entire surface if needed.
Inspect for Warping: Over time, wooden shiplap can expand or contract, especially with changes in temperature and humidity. Check for warping or gaps between the planks.
3. General Tips for Both Styles
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Always avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as they can damage the surface.
- Control Humidity: Excess humidity can lead to wood expansion or shrinkage. To protect the wood, maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level in your home.
- Protect from Furniture: Place furniture pads or rugs underneath furniture to avoid scratching or damaging the wood.
Both board and batten and shiplap are low-maintenance options that add beauty and character to your home. With simple regular cleaning, occasional touch-ups, and careful attention to humidity levels, both styles can maintain their beauty for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both board and batten and shiplap are excellent choices for adding style and character to your home. The decision between the two comes down to the look you prefer and the atmosphere you want to create.
Board and batten offers a bold, traditional look with vertical lines that add height and drama, while shiplap, with its clean, horizontal planks, brings a sleek, modern feel.
Both are relatively easy to maintain with regular cleaning and occasional touch-ups. If you’re looking for a more rustic, classic style, board and batten is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more modern or coastal vibe, shiplap will give your space that fresh, airy feel.
Ultimately, both styles are timeless and versatile, so whether you’re remodeling or starting a new project, you can’t go wrong with either choice!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Both Board and Batten and Shiplap in The Same Room?
Yes, mixing both styles can add depth and interest. For example, you could use board and batten on the lower half of the wall and shiplap above it, creating a layered look that complements both designs.
Can I Use Board and Batten or Shiplap Outdoors?
Yes, both styles can be used for outdoor siding. However, if using natural wood, make sure to apply an outdoor sealant or finish to protect against the elements.
Which Is More Trendy: Board and Batten or Shiplap?
Shiplap is considered more trendy right now, especially in modern farmhouse designs. However, board and batten are timeless and work well in both modern and traditional spaces.