Roofing Batten
/BAT-en/
Also known as: tiling batten, slating batten, counter batten, sarking batten, roof batten
Definition
Horizontal timber strips fixed across the rafters or sarking board of a roof to provide the fixing points for roof tiles or slates. Battens are sized and spaced to suit the tile or slate being used, with gauge (spacing) calculated to give the correct head lap.
In Practice
Batten size is typically 25x38mm or 25x50mm for most plain tiles and interlocking tiles. Gauge (centre-to-centre spacing) varies by tile type - typically 100mm for plain tiles, 265-345mm for interlocking tiles. Under BS 5534, battens must be stress-graded (minimum C16) and preservative treated.
UK Building Regulations
Approved Document A - Structure
BS 5534 governs slating and tiling including batten specification and fixing. Counter battens running up the slope are used with underlay to create a ventilated batten space.
See Also