Roofing Battens

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Roofing Battens?

Roofing battens are horizontal supports or strips typically made from timber that are installed onto the rafters or trusses of a roof structure. They create a framework to which roofing

materials such as tiles, shingles, or metal sheets are attached and generally provide increased strength and stability, and room to manage ventilation and vapour control.

How to install Roofing Battens

Guidelines for the exact spacing and specifications of installing roofing battens may depend on building regulations in your region, but generally roofing battens are installed horizontally across roofing rafters or trusses on the exterior side of the roofing structure. They are secured to the structure typically with nails. Many times during the roofing process, the opportunity is taken to apply Multifoil Insulation and Breather Membranes to the roofing structure before the battens are installed.

What size are roofing battens?

Roofing battens typically come in two sizes - 25x38mm and 25x50mm - usually available in 4.8m lengths.

Roofing Batten Building Regulations

When shopping for roofing battens, you will often run into two types:

Roofing batten stained a distinctive colour, stamped and described as BS 5534 - ours are usually blue or red, but they also are sometimes green or yellow.
Lengths of treated timber that are a natural colour in the same dimensions, with no BS 5534 grading.

If you are shopping for roofing batten that is specifically for roofing, it is important that you ensure they are graded to BS 5534 to ensure they are of adequate strength and durability for roofing - ungraded battens may compromise the longevity of your roofing and pose a safety risk. The second kind are sometimes described as roofing batten as they are the same size and look, but tend to be used to create horizontal batten fences and home DIY projects.

Which battens do I need for a garden fence?

Now that we have understood the differences between the two types of roofing batten, the answer is clear. Our treated timber battens are the most cost effective choice to create garden fencing as they are not required to be graded. Furthermore - the natural colour is generally a more desirable choice for garden projects. To prolong their lifespan in your garden, you may wish to further treat them with wood preserver.

Why Choose Our Graded Roofing Battens?

Our roofing battens aren't just timber strips—they're precision-engineered components that form the backbone of your roofing system. Every batten undergoes rigorous grading to BS 5534 standards, ensuring consistent strength and reliability. This isn't just compliance; it's your guarantee of professional-grade performance that British roofers trust.

The treated timber construction provides enhanced durability against moisture, insects, and decay—critical protection that extends your roofing investment's life. Each batten features distinctive blue treatment marking, your visual confirmation of compliant timber that meets professional standards.

Professional Solutions for Every Project

Our 25x38mm Treated & Graded Roofing Battens deliver versatility that makes them the go-to choice for standard residential applications. Whether you're installing concrete tiles from Marley, clay tiles from Sandtoft, or natural slate, these battens provide the structural foundation your roof covering needs.

For projects requiring additional strength, our 25x50mm (2x1) Treated & Graded Roofing Battens offer enhanced load-bearing capacity. These battens excel in exposed conditions or when working with heavier roof coverings, providing robust support that eliminates deflection concerns.

Both specifications arrive in convenient 4.8-metre lengths, minimising waste whilst maximising coverage efficiency—exactly what you need when managing project costs and timelines.

The DIY Building Supplies Advantage

Sourcing roofing battens shouldn't be complicated. We've streamlined the process, offering competitive pricing without compromising quality. Our BS 5534 graded timber comes from trusted UK suppliers who understand British weather conditions.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or tackling your first roofing project, our experienced team provides guidance on batten sizing, loading calculations, and fixing centres to ensure your project meets both building regulations and your performance expectations.

Ready to secure your roofing project with premium BS 5534 graded battens? Browse our complete range above, or contact our team for expert advice tailored to your specific requirements.