Roof battens are an important element of any roofing system, as they provide a solid surface on which to fix roof tiles or slates and help to support the weight of the roof covering.
So, it should come as no surprise that choosing the right size roof batten is crucial to ensure that your roof is strong and secure and that it provides long-lasting protection for your home.
But what timber batten sizes are available on the market, and how do I know which one is right for my roof?
That’s what we’re here to find out!
Let’s take a deep dive into the ins and out of the various roofing batten sizes in the UK and the factors you need to consider in order to make an informed decision.
Table of contents:
Roof batten sizes in the UK
The most common sizes of roof batten are 25mm x 38mm, 25mm x 50mm, and 38mm x 50mm. The thickness of the battens is usually 25mm, while the width can vary depending on the intended use.
Keep in mind that all battens must complete with British Standards BS 5534:2014+A2:2018 (Slating and tiling for pitched roofs and vertical cladding. Code of practice).
Let’s take a closer look at the possible uses for each size.
25mm x 38mm roof batten
The 25mm x 38mm batten is the most commonly used size for pitched roofs and is suitable for most roofing applications. This size of batten is often used with concrete or clay tiles, as well as with natural slates. It’s also a perfect match for metal tiles, especially zinc or copper ones.
Next:
25mm x 50mm roof batten
The 25mm x 50mm batten is a slightly larger size which we recommend for roofs with a steeper pitch or for roofs that will be exposed to high winds. This size of batten provides a more secure fixing for the roof covering and can also be used with heavier types of roof tiles, such as concrete or clay interlocking tiles.
38mm x 50mm roof batten
The 38mm x 50mm batten is the largest size of batten, which is often used for flat roofs or low-pitch roofs. This batten size is suitable for use with heavier roofing materials, such as felt or lead, and provides a solid, secure base for your roof covering.
Choosing the right roof batten size for your project
When choosing the size of roof battens to use, it’s important to consider the weight of the roof covering, the roof pitch and the intended use of the building. For example, if you live in an area with high winds or heavy snowfall, you may want to use a larger size of batten to ensure that your roof is secure and stable.
But wait! There’s more:
You should also consider the type of roof covering you intend to have, as different materials may require different batten sizes. If you’re using natural slates, for instance, you may need to use a smaller size of batten than you would with concrete tiles.
In addition to the size of the batten, it’s also vital to consider the quality of the timber. Roof battens are usually made from either softwood or hardwood, and it’s crucial to choose a high-quality, durable material to ensure the structural integrity of your roof.
And on that note…
Final thoughts
Choosing the right size of roof batten is key to the outstanding long-term performance of your roof.
This is where timber batten sizes come into play, as they can make a huge difference – and bigger is not necessarily better.
The good news is:
By carefully considering the weight of the roof covering, the roof pitch and the weather patterns in your area, you can easily choose the right size of batten to ensure your roof is structurally sound and highly durable for many years to come.