Craftsman-style homes are known for their classic details and strong curb appeal, but one feature stands out more than the rest: the siding. The vertical layout with battens creates the signature look that defines this style. If you’re building or remodeling a Craftsman home, choosing the right siding is one of the most important steps.

At Energy Pro, we help homeowners find siding that matches the traditional Craftsman look while offering modern performance and durability. Below, we’ll cover what makes Craftsman siding unique, which materials work best, and how to choose the right design features to complete the look.

What Defines Siding for Craftsman Style Homes?

Craftsman homes have a unique and traditional appearance. What truly sets them apart is their use of vertical board and batten siding. This style is most often built using 4×8 sheets of siding, with 1×3 or 1×4 battens applied vertically over the seams. The result is a clean, balanced look with strong vertical lines that anchor the home’s design.

While the front of the home might feature a bit of brick, especially around porch columns or the base of the structure, it’s the 4×8 vertical siding that really defines the look. This style isn’t just limited to classic Craftsman homes either. You’ll often see it on Craftsman-style farmhouses, blending tradition with a fresh, updated feel.

It’s important to understand that the style of the siding—not the color—is what makes it Craftsman. Vertical siding with visible battens is the foundation of the design.

Material Options That Match the Craftsman Look

One of the best things about choosing siding for a Craftsman home is the flexibility. Almost every siding material—vinyl, James Hardie, and composite—offers Craftsman-style options. That means you can stick to your budget, preferred maintenance level, and aesthetic while still achieving the right design.

1. Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is a cost-effective option that’s easy to maintain. Many manufacturers offer vertical vinyl panels designed specifically to mimic the board and batten look. When paired with battens, vinyl can give you that 4×8 vertical sheet appearance without the extra upkeep of traditional wood siding.

2. James Hardie (Fiber Cement)

Also known as Hardie, fiber cement siding is a durable and long-lasting choice. It holds up well in various weather conditions and offers excellent resistance to fire and pests. More importantly, it comes in vertical siding options that match the Craftsman style perfectly. The material is strong, holds paint well, and adds lasting curb appeal.

3. Composite Siding

Composite siding is engineered to mimic the texture and appearance of real wood, but with fewer maintenance demands. Like the other options, composite materials can be installed using 4×8 vertical sheets with battens, achieving the same clean lines and Craftsman appeal.

The key takeaway here is that board and batten styles transfer across all major siding materials and brands. No matter which product you choose, you can achieve the classic vertical look that defines this architectural style.

Color Choices That Highlight the Craftsman Feel

Although the siding layout is what gives a home its Craftsman character, color can help enhance the look even more. Generally, light, neutral shades work best. These tones brighten up the vertical lines and help show off the detailed batten patterns.

Some of the most popular Craftsman-style siding colors include:

• White
• Light beige
• Cream
• Soft gray

Dark colors can work in certain applications, but if you want to stay traditional, lighter tones are the way to go. Again, it’s not the color that makes it Craftsman—it’s the style of the siding. The light colors simply help highlight that style more clearly.

Brick and Other Exterior Features

While vertical siding does most of the visual work on a Craftsman-style home, it’s not uncommon to see brickwork incorporated into the front of the house. Often, you’ll find brick wrapping around the bottom portion of porch columns or skirting along the front. This adds texture and contrast to the vertical siding without taking away from the overall look.

At Energy Pro, we often help homeowners blend brick accents with vertical siding to create a balanced design that feels both classic and modern.

Why Vertical Siding is Non-Negotiable

There’s one feature that every true Craftsman-style home needs: vertical siding made from 4×8 sheets with 1×3 or 1×4 battens. This layout is what sets these homes apart from other architectural styles. It adds a strong visual line, emphasizes height, and brings that handcrafted, intentional feel that’s so central to the Craftsman tradition.

The best part is, this design is available from every major siding manufacturer and works with every common material. Whether you’re choosing vinyl, Hardie, or composite, you’ll be able to find options that bring your vision to life.

In Summary

Craftsman style homes have a timeless look that starts with the right siding. The defining feature is the use of 4×8 vertical sheets with battens, creating clean lines and a strong architectural presence. Whether you choose vinyl, fiber cement like James Hardie, or composite siding, all major materials offer vertical options that fit this classic style. Pairing these siding choices with light, neutral colors and optional brick accents helps complete the look that makes these homes so appealing.

At Energy Pro, we’ve helped countless homeowners bring out the full potential of their craftsman style homes with high-quality siding installations that honor the original design. If you’re ready to update your exterior or start a new project, contact us today to schedule a consultation.