Roofing battens - graded or ungraded

Selecting roof battens is a critical part of building a durable and weather-resistant roof. While “Should I choose factory-graded battens or grade battens on-site?” was once a common question, BS 5534:2014+A2:2018 has made the answer simple and clear. To achieve compliance, factory-graded battens are the only choice for roofing applications.

Specifying roof battens to BS 5534:2014+A2:2018

Timber roof battens play several roles in a successful roof installation. They hold the underlay in place, they provide a sturdy surface for mechanically fixing roof tiles and they also give installers a firm footing at height. This means they play a part in weather resistance, durability and safety.

The publication of BS 5534:2014+A2:2018 has, in many ways, made batten selection much easier. No longer do you need to decide between the more costly factory-graded products or the more time-intensive option of meticulously grading the battens on site. These days the process is simple: calculate how many battens you need then find a reputable supplier who sells products from a trusted manufacturer – such as Marley JB Red roofing battens.

Unfortunately in recent years, many counterfeit products have entered the market, falsely claiming to be factory-graded and meeting the requirements of BS 5534. Many are even colour tinted to look like products from reputable manufacturers.

What does BS 5534 require of roofing battens?

BS 5534:2014+A2:2018 sets out the requirements for roofing battens, including:

• Roof batten dimensions
• Knots and imperfections
• Splits and fissures
• Wane
• Distortion
• Slope of grain
• Rate of growth
• Insect attack, rot and decay
• Resin pockets
• Preservative treatments

 Compliant roofing battens should be individually marked with the relevant information:

• Supplier
• Origin (species code)
• Graded BS 5534
• Size

Additional documentation should also be provided . This will include the details above , plus other useful information, such as the type of preservative used and any third-party accreditation. 

What are the risks of using non-compliant battens for roofing?

Compliance with BS 5534:2014+A2:2018 and following its recommendations can help to achieve compliance with building regulations. It is also required to achieve the standards set by the National House Building Council (NHBC).

Using ungraded or counterfeit products can lead to a number of risks, and the batten or finished roof may not:

• Provide a secure foothold, compromising the safety of installers
• Carry the imposed loads of the roofing products
• Meet the requirements of the Competent Person Scheme operated by the NFRC
• Be compliant with guarantees

There’s also typically much more waste involved with non-graded battens. Timber battens that do not meet the requirements of BS 5534 should not be used for roofing, but they are suitable for other applications. For example, Marley’s Type-A Brown batten is often used in many other construction applications.

H2: BS 5534-compliant roofing battens from Marley

Manufactured for quality and reliability, Marley’s JB Red timber roofing battens are produced from high-grade, slow-grown and kiln-dried sideboard timber for maximum strength and stability.

Using our Goldeneye technology, each JB Red roof batten is laser-scanned to ensure compliance with BS 5534. They are the only factory-graded roof battens with BBA certification and CPPI product verification.

For more information, download our roofing battens brochure or get in touch with a member of our technical team.