Treated roofing battens (often referred to as slating or tiling battens) are pressure-treated timber strips used to create a rigid framework for fixing roof tiles or slates onto pitched roof structures. Pressure-treated with preservatives (often dyed red, blue, or yellow for identification) to resist fungal decay and insect attack, they ensure long-term stability within humid roof cavities.

Common applications include:

• Tile & Slate Support: Fixed horizontally across roof rafters or counter-battens to provide the precise fixing point for interlocking tiles, pantiles, or natural slates.

• Roof Ventilation Cavity: Elevates tiles above the breathable roofing membrane (underlay), allowing continuous air movement that prevents moisture accumulation and dampness.

• External Timber Cladding: Acts as vertical or horizontal framing for mounting timber cladding boards, shiplap, or composite panelling to exterior walls.

• General Timber Framing: Used in shed construction, garden screening, and ceiling lining frames where small-section treated timber is required.

Available for collection from our Rugby branch or local delivery using our own fleet.

Battens will typically be delivered in one of our vans or pick-up trucks, unless ordered alongside larger goods. Delivery is kerbside and the final offloading position is always subject to safe access and the driver’s discretion.

Please tell us before delivery about:

• Narrow roads or restricted entrances
• Parked vehicles or limited turning space
• Overhead cables, trees or other obstructions
• Soft, sloping or unsuitable ground
• Any other access concerns

Enter your postcode on the product page to check your delivery area. We’ll confirm the delivery date after your order is placed.

What is BS 5534 compliance and why is it required for roofing battens?

BS 5534 is the UK Code of Practice for Slating and Tiling. Under building regulations, roofing battens used as structural components must meet strict grading criteria for knot size, grain slope, wane, and moisture content (under 22%). Un-graded timber cannot guarantee structural load tolerance against wind uplift or roof worker foot traffic.

How can I verify on-site that a timber batten complies with BS 5534?

 

Compliant battens must be clearly stamped along their length with mandatory identification details, including:

• The supplier or manufacturer name

• The standard number (BS 5534)

• The timber species code (e.g., PNS for Pine/Spruce)

• A third-party quality control certification mark

What type of nails should be used to fix roofing battens to rafters?

Use galvanised or stainless steel ring-shank nails to ensure high resistance against corrosion and wind uplift. Nails should generally be a minimum of 3.35mm in diameter and long enough to penetrate the underlying rafter by at least 40mm.

Do I need to treat cut ends of roofing battens on site?

Yes. Whenever a treated batten is cut to fit hips, valleys, or verges, the exposed end-grain must be liberally brushed with an appropriate timber end-grain preservative sealant to maintain full protection against decay.