How to Install a Board and Batten Wall
A Quick and Easy Way to TRansform a Blank Wall…
When it came to planning our kitchen makeover, I knew I was going to do a board and batten wall in it. We have this one long wall that is completely blank and I knew it needed breaking up. I’ve been really inspired over on Pinterest of some fabulous board and batten walls and knew this was a DIY for the win.
I’m no stranger to a DIY. But this one was the first biggest one that I’ve done, second now to the fridge built-in we did. However, I knew this would be a simple DIY that would take me a day to do and would give the wall a complete transformation. I’m so glad that I did it, as you can see below, it’s made such a difference…
THE BEFORE AND AFTER.
Though I don’t have a complete before prior to the first part of the board and batten installation, you can see what a difference in the first part of the wood installation has made. I really wanted to ensure that the board and batten took up most of the wall. So I made sure that the top part of the wall was well over the half-way point.
To ensure there was breakage between this and the wall, I made sure to paint the board and batten the same colour as the kitchen cabinets. However, I kept the trim white, keeping up with the breakage.
Now, most board and batten installations would be a combination of solid wood backs and plinths. If we owned this home, I would have certainly done this to ensure a completely smoothed finished. However, this was a step too far in a rental, so I stuck with the plinths. I would highly recommend doing the full hog if you do own your home. It does make a difference. However, it looks just as good without it if you can’t do it. The MDF board just takes it to the next level.
AN EASY DIY TO SINK YOUR TEETH INTO.
Regardless of your DIY, beginner or expert, You can totally do this DIY. If you are able to do some permanent fixing to your walls, I would recommend installing the wood plinths with a nail gun along with some no more nails adhesive. For myself, I went with just adhesive and it’s held up quite nicely. I even have this mirror attached to it and it’s still solid.
When installing, I’d recommend doing your horizontal wood piece first. That way, you can ensure that your vertical pieces are lined up and are perfectly straight with that main piece. Take your time before committing. Always measure twice and fix once. However, once you get going, you realise how easy it is to do so and you’ll be completed in no time.
For filling in gaps and ensuring a completely smooth finish with the wall, I’d always recommend using a combination of Polyfilla and caulking. Both will ensure no gaps and a complete finish for the perfect paint job.
Good luck with your DIY project and do drop me a message on Instagram if you need any further advice or help.
SHOP MY KITCHEN.
