Creating a DIY board and batten wall is an inexpensive way to elevate a room, and add a personalized touch. In this second part of our board and batten series, we'll show you how to actually make the wall.
We've already gone over the measuring and planning process in Measuring and Planning Your DIY Board and Batten Accent Wall. Now, let's get into the exciting stuff. We'll talk about how to put the boards on the wall to create a board and Batten Accent Wall.
It's sort of like putting together a big puzzle, but it comes together much quicker. But don't worry, we'll help you avoid mistakes and make sure your board and batten wall turns out amazing!
Whether you're a pro at DIY or just starting, you'll be able to create a beautiful accent wall that becomes a show piece in your home. Let's get started on this awesome project.
Pro Tip: Caution with Guide Boards for Measurements!
When I began my board and batten wall project, I decided to use a wood guide for quicker measurements. However, about halfway through, I encountered a significant hiccup. A small miscalculation in my guide board's length threw off the measurements for the remaining boards.
Since I had already used nails and glue, the prospect of adjusting or removing the boards seemed messy and complicated. Faced with limited options, I had to adapt the spacing between the remaining boards based on the available wall space.
Looking back, I wish I had skipped the guide board and taken the time to lay everything out meticulously using measuring tape and a pencil. Lesson learned!
Bedroom Wood Accent Wall Project
Materials Needed:
- 1/2-inch x 3 1/2-inch x 96-inch Modern MDF Primed Fiberboard Baseboard Moulding ValuPAK (10 pack x 2) from Home Depot, Price was $39.99 x 2 = $79.98
- 1 x Alex Plus 300 mL White Acrylic Latex Caulk with Silicon (paintable) = $2.57
- 1 x No more nails All purpose construction adhesive squeeze tube 177 mL = $9.47
- Paint
- Level
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Miter saw or handsaw
- Jig Saw or handsaw for cutting around outlets
- Caulking and Caulking gun
- Brad nailer or finishing nails
- Sandpaper
Steps To Create Your Board & Batten Accent Wall:
1. Measure and Plan:
To determine spacing of the boards, follow this blog post: Measuring and Planning Your DIY Board and Batten Accent Wall. I did not want to remove the original baseboards, so I opted to only add to the wall. To make it look neat and tidy, I included a bottom row of boards along the bottom, which sits directly above the original trim. This way, if I ever want to remove the board and batten, I can, and will still have the original trim in place.
I also cleaned up the wall a bit and filled previous holes that there there.
2. Cut Moulding:
Using a miter saw or handsaw, cut the 1/2-inch x 3 1/2-inch x 96-inch Primed Fiberboard Baseboard Moulding to the desired lengths based on your measurements. Make sure to cut the corner ends at 45-degree angles for a clean look at the corners. I cut my boards one at a time just before installing each one.
*Use a Jig Saw to cut out sections of wood to fit around outlets.
3. Apply Adhesive:
Apply No more nails All-purpose construction adhesive to the back of each board, one at a time, ensuring good coverage. This adhesive will help secure the boards to the wall and allow it to stick while you're nailing it in place. It also gives better adhesion to the wall.
4. Position and Attach Boards:
I started positioning the top, bottom, and side boards first. Then I began installing the vertical boards. Press the boards onto the wall, ensuring they are level and evenly spaced. Use a level to make sure the boards are straight. Secure them in place by nailing them to the wall using a brad nailer or finishing nails.
We're happy with how it looks! Feeling a sense of accomplishment 🙂
5. Fill Nail Holes and Gaps:
If using nails, fill the nail holes with wood filler or putty. Allow it to dry and then sand the filled areas smooth. Repeat once more, if necessary, so all the holes are filled and smooth.
6. Caulk Joints:
This step is where you'll really notice the project comes together and starts looking so nice!
Use the Alex Plus White Acrylic Latex Caulk with Silicon to caulk the joints between the boards and the wall. This will create a seamless and finished appearance.
7. Paint:
Paint the entire board and batten wall to your desired color. Be sure to use a paint that adheres well to the primed fiberboard.
First coat of paint complete 🙂
Second coat of paint is up and it look so freaking good!!
I ended up painting the grey walls to a warmer grey color and I love the look!
8. Finishing Touches:
Once the paint is dry, step back and admire your DIY board and batten wall!
Remember to take your time, measure accurately, and be patient during the installation process. Good luck with your project!
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I ensure the boards are level during installation?
Use a level to check the vertical and horizontal alignment of the boards. Adjust as needed before securing them in place.
