ToolForage.
CONSTRUCTION CALCULATOR

Board and Batten Calculator

Lay out equal board-and-batten gaps across a wall with a specified maximum center spacing.

Calculator

in
in
in
in
YOUR RESULTS
Battens including both edges6
Equal clear gap
20.4 in
Actual center spacing
23.4 in
Total vertical batten length
48 ft

Page guide

Batten count and equal clear gaps

The count includes the left and right edge battens. Gap measures the visible opening between faces, while center spacing measures between their centers. Linear footage excludes horizontal rails, base trim, and cutting waste.

For lumber volume after selecting the batten dimensions, the Board Foot Calculator uses thickness, width, length, and piece count.

The formula

Battens = ceiling((wall width − batten width) ÷ maximum center spacing) + 1. Clear gap = (wall width − batten count × batten width) ÷ (batten count − 1).

The layout places full-width battens flush to both edges of the wall and distributes the remaining centerlines evenly. Clear gap subtracts the physical batten width from center spacing. Vertical linear footage multiplies the batten count by their height.

Worked example

A 120 in wall with 3 in battens and a 24 in maximum center spacing uses six battens. Each clear gap is 20.4 in and the actual center spacing is 23.4 in. At 96 in tall, the vertical pieces total 48 linear feet.

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter wall width, batten height using the units shown.
  2. Set batten face width, maximum center spacing.
  3. Calculate and review battens including both edges alongside the supporting quantities.

Check where the edge pieces sit

This layout assumes both edge battens fit entirely inside the measured wall width. If corner trim is centered on the edge or another wall shares a piece, measure the usable span for that arrangement separately. Door and window casings may divide the wall into sections that need individual layouts rather than a single continuous pattern.

Maximum spacing selects the number of bays

The maximum center spacing is a visual planning choice here. The actual spacing may be smaller so that all bays match. Before cutting, mark the centers and check the appearance around outlets, corners, and existing trim. Purchased boards should be estimated from a cut list because total linear feet does not account for stock lengths or unusable offcuts.

Assumptions & limitations

What this calculation assumes

  • Battens are identical and fit flush inside both wall edges.

What to keep in mind

  • Excludes horizontal trim, stock-length optimization, fastener selection, and exterior weather detailing.

Common questions

Is the gap the same as on-center spacing?

No. Center spacing equals the clear gap plus one batten face width.

Does the count include the first and last piece?

Yes. Both wall-edge battens are included in the displayed count.

Does linear footage determine boards to buy?

It is only total piece length. Compare each cut length with available stock lengths and allow for offcuts before ordering.

Sources & further reading

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