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Wooden Batterns

Since the updated code of practice for slating and tiling went into effect three and a half years ago, all roofing battens have had to adhere to the standards set out in BS 5534:2014. Each piece of batten has been inspected and graded to ensure it meets the standards set out in BS 5534: 2003 + A1: 2010, and it has been dyed red/blue so that it can be easily distinguished from the more often used green batten that does not meet these criteria. They are manufactured from timber selected from approved sources and graded by an optical grading machine before applying a blue preservative treatment.

Battens attached to rafters using nails should have a diameter of at least 3.35mm, as specified by BS 5534. Standard practice suggests using 65mm nails since this length allows for a 40mm penetration into the rafter.

The cut end of the batten should be treated, or the uncut end should be put in the mortar; this is not necessary for dry-fix systems. After the battens have been set up, you may begin laying down roofing materials.

Roofing Batten Purposes

Roofing battens serve several purposes in a roof system. They serve as a platform for installing roof tiles and support those tiles once they are in place. As a bonus, they serve as a foothold during installation (though this is only recommended in cases where the batten is directly over a rafter, as extra weight from snow and wind can cause the batten to shift out of place) and help to support imposed loads during construction (from snow and wind). With so much riding on the roofing battens, you must choose the right product to specify. Failing to do so might reduce the roof's expected lifespan and cause other problems. Our manual is here to assist if you're having trouble meeting the criteria or distinguishing between items.

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Guidelines for roofing battens are detailed in BS 5534, a code of practice for slating and tiling on pitched roofs and vertical cladding. This document addresses topics such as grading standards, wood species, wood treatments, and marking.

Roofing Batten

Species, grades, treatments, and mandatory marks for roofing battens are all outlined in BS 5534:2003.

Full compliance with batten standards is mandated by the majority of organisations, such as the National House Builders' Council (NHBC), the Local Authority Building Control (LABC), and the NFRC Co-Partnership.

An NHBC-approved inspector must indelibly mark batten wood to prove it complies with BS 5534.

How To Fit A Roofing Batten

  • Make sure the battens are more than 1.2 metres in length and are fastened to the rafters at intervals of no more than 600 millimetres.

  • The optimal batten moisture content (after treatment) is 22%.

  • Ten-gauge, round-shank, 65-millimetre-long nails are the norm.

  • Zinc-coated nails are recommended in areas prone to severe weather, such as along the seaside.

  • To prevent corrosion, use galvanised nails when affixing treated wood battens.

  • Set aside some time for the laying-out procedure, as this will lessen the amount of tile and slate cuts needed.

  • Check that the battens' horizontal and perpendicular courses are true.

  • Drive a nail through the batten's centre and into each rafter's centre.

  • Create a butt joint in the middle of each rafter for added strength and use angle nails driven inward toward the centre of the rafter for a more secure grip.

  • Battens that have split because of nailing should be replaced.

Roofing Battens Near Me

If you’re based in Leeds or one of the surrounding areas, Leeds & District Roofing LTD is here to help. Contact us to arrange a free roof estimate.

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