Can You Use Board & Batten Metal Siding Panels on a Pole Barn?

Board and batten steel siding has become a popular choice for residential homes, barndominiums, and even post-frame buildings. But if you're building a standard pole barn with horizontal 2x4 or 2x6 girts, you might be wondering: Can board and batten metal siding panels be installed on that kind of framing?

Why Board & Batten Metal Siding Needs a Solid Surface

Unlike traditional metal panels like Tuff-Rib or PBR, steel board and batten panels typically have a flat pan with raised battens that snap or lock together, and are fastened using a concealed screw flange. Like all screw flange concealed fastened systems, these panels need solid backing for proper support.

Why?

• It helps prevent oil canning (visible waviness in the flat metal).

• It gives screws or fasteners something solid to bite into.

• It ensures the panel stays flat and doesn’t flex over time.

That’s why these panels are usually installed over solid sheathing—like OSB or plywood—on residential homes and commercial buildings.

What If You Have a Pole Barn with Horizontal Girts?

Most pole barns are framed with girts spaced 24"-36" apart. This works great for traditional metal roofing and siding panels—but when using metal Board and Batten siding, the entire wall should be sheathed with OSB, plywood, ZIP board, or another approved sheathing solid product prior to installing the metal panels.

Bonus Tip: Watch for Moisture Considerations

If you’re adding sheathing or strapping, make sure your wall assembly includes a moisture barrier like synthetic house wrap where needed. This is especially important for insulated post-frame buildings or finished interiors.

The Bottom Line

Yes—you can use board and batten metal siding panels on a pole barn, but the framing needs to be adapted to provide a flat, planar, supportive surface. If you're unsure what works best for your project, our team is here to help.

Want to see a quote for your metal siding or roofing project? Get in contact with a True Service Representative by clicking here or calling 888-455-8783.