It might not be obvious when looking at a roof, but the structures that protect our homes from the wet and wind are more complex than they seem. Beneath the roof's tiles or sheets sits the roof battens – but what is a roof batten? And what are they used for?
Our guide explains everything you need to know about roof battens, including the different types, batten spacing, and installation and maintenance.
Defining Roof Battens
What are roof battens? A roof batten is a slender, horizontal strip attached to the trusses or rafters of a roof. Usually made from timber or metal, the main purpose of a roof batten is to provide a framework to attach the tiles or sheets. Essentially, a roof batten is the bridge between the structural element of the roof and the outer covering.
Roof battens must meet strict standards to withstand local weather conditions, like high winds, heavy rainfall, and even cyclonic conditions in some regions. Battens have to be installed in a way that offers structural stability and safety.
What Are Roof Battens Used For?
There are several uses for roof battens beyond acting as support for your roof tiles or sheets. Without properly installed battens, the roofing could shift or loosen over time, leading to leaks or structural damage.
- Ventilation: Roof battens also enhance your property's ventilation. Each batten elevates the roof covering to create a small gap that allows for airflow. This helps to regulate the temperature, reduce condensation and improve energy efficiency – keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter.
- Weather-resistance: Speaking of weather, roof battens also offer protection from high winds and extreme conditions. The roof batten securely fastens roof coverings to your building, preventing the roof from uplifting or missing tiles when the wind gets going.
- Structural integrity: Finally, roof battens provide structural integrity. By evenly distributing the weight of the roof across the structure, the battens prevent sagging or warping, so the roof remains strong and stable over the long term.
Types of Roof Battens
There are two main types of roof battens: metal and timber battens. Each has its benefits and is suitable for different building types.
Timber Roof Battens
Timber roof battens are a traditional roofing choice in Australia – and have been for decades. Typically made from treated pine or hardwood, timber battens are naturally strong and durable. They're also lightweight and relatively easy to work with.
Pros:
- Available and affordable
- Easy to cut and shape during installation
- When treated, they're resistant to termites and decay
Cons:
- If not treated, wood is susceptible to moisture, meaning it could warp or rot
- It may not be as fire-resistant as metal battens
Metal Roof Battens
Metal battens, usually made from steel or aluminium, are a popular alternative to timber thanks to their strength, durability, and resistance to harsh weather in cyclonic areas. Metal battens are usually coated with anti-corrosive materials like zinc or aluminium to protect against rust.
Pros:
- Resistant to rot, warping, and termites
- Highly durable and able to withstand extreme weather
- Lightweight
- Exceptionally strong
Cons:
- More expensive than timber battens
- It may require special tools for installation
Installing and Maintaining Roof Battens
Proper installation is important to ensure your roof battens last a long life. This means your battens need to be securely fastened to the rafter or truss. They should also be level. Misaligned or poorly installed battens can lead to uneven roofing surfaces and increased wear and tear, which can degrade your roof sooner than necessary.
Metal roof battens can be more challenging to install, and you should consult a professional to ensure your battens meet standard roof codes and properly follow the manufacturer's specifications.
After installation, you should regularly check on your battens to extend their lifespan. While they're designed to be durable and long-lasting, frequent inspections – especially after extreme weather events – to check for signs of damage will help your roof stay in good condition. It will also limit the expensive costs of long-term damage.
Here are our tips for looking after your roof battens:
- For timber battens, look for signs of rot or termite damage, particularly if the battens were not treated or if they have been exposed to moisture over time.
- Metal battens should be checked for signs of corrosion, particularly in coastal areas where salt air can enhance rusting.
How Far Apart Should Roof Battens Be?
Roof batten spacing depends on the material used, but generally speaking, most buildings have standards and specifications to dictate the spacing. The roof pitch and weather conditions are also factors to consider when spacing roof battens.
Here are typical measurements:
- Tile roofs: 320-420mm apart, depending on the type and size of the tiles
- Metal sheets: 900-1,200mm
- Shingles: 100-300mm apart, depending manufacturer's specifications
How Thick Should Roof Battens Be?
The appropriate thickness depends on several factors, including the type of roofing material, the distance between rafters or trusses, and local building codes.
Timber battens are generally 38mm thick as a minimum to ensure they're strong enough to support roofing materials without warping or bending. Metal roof battens typically have a thickness of around 0.42-1.0mm.
Final Thoughts on Roof Battens
Roof battens are an important part of your roof structure, and can mean the difference between a long-lasting roof and one that ends up needing costly repairs. While timber is a more economical alternative to metal roof battens, both are durable and strong options for your building.
If you're installing or replacing roof battens, then it's best to speak to a professional about your roofing needs to ensure the best results.
FAQs
What Size Is a Standard Batten in Australia?
The size of a standard batten varies depending on the type of batten, but a medium spacing of 25-50mm is common in most projects. Timber battens, top hat battens, ceiling battens, and roof battens all come in different sizes.
Do You Need Roof Battens?
Roof battens are essential for stability and long-term durability. They also provide protection against extreme weather and improve ventilation to prevent dampness and rot.
What Is the Purpose of Battens?
Roof battens provide stability in your roof space by securing the roof tiles and shingles to the rafters and ensuring protection against strong winds.