This will be dependent on thesize of your walland the look you’re after.
In a tighter space, it often looks better to opt for closer battens.
However, on a large wall, spacing the battens more will keep the wall from looking too busy.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Once you determine this, input these numbers into the formula below.
Always round your number to the nearest 16th inch.
Likewise, if the spaces are too small, decrease the number of battens and spaces.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Just double-check to add or subtract the same number from the battens and spacing when changing the formula.
The number of battens should always be one more than the number of spaces.
Tip
Check with the hardware store or lumber yard you’re shopping with.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Additionally, poplar is more impact-resistant than many pine options.
However, we don’t recommend the use of MDF in areas with potential water exposure.
If you’re installing a full-height board and batten wall, simply mount the board against the ceiling.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Install Horizontal Board
Measure the length of your wall and cut a 1x4 to length.
To do so, cut a 1x2 to the exact length of the horizontal board.
Continue this method on the top and bottom until you reach the other end of the wall.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
For extra holding power, apply a wavy bead of construction adhesive to the back of each batten.
Warning
There is a good chance your floor isn’t perfectly level, especially in older homes.
This will add durability and help keep the edges from being creased as easily on impact.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Caulk the Joints
Caulk every single joint and fill any nail holes with caulk.
If necessary, drive the nails further into the wood using a nail set.
Account for the need to cover the seams between plywood panels when planning your batten placements.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Popular options include premium pine, poplar, and even MDF.
Installing board and batten in your home is an easy DIY project that nearly anyone can do.
Board and batten can easily be installed over drywall in interiors that already have drywall installed.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Once the entire feature wall is painted, the drywall behind the battens looks like boards.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
