Used as a base for fixing tiles and slates in place, battens play a pivotal role in the quality, strength and durability of your roof. They lay the initial foundations of your roof which means investing in high-quality materials and choosing the right company for the job is an important process. Want to know more about what to consider for your next roofing project? Read on for our top tips on what to look for.
1. Opt for industrial pressure treated battens
Installing roofing battens is a big job which means you’ll want your materials to last. For a high-quality finish opt for industrial pressure treated battens that stand up against the elements, including water damage and rot. This is particularly important in the UK, where wet weather is expected for much of the year.
Roofing battens that haven’t undergone industrial pressure treating can jeopardise the quality of your roof. This could not only affect the safety and stability of your home but also the resale value.
Following updates to the BS 5534 code of practice for slating and tiling, it’s no longer possible to grade wooden battens on the worksite. This means that in most cases your home will always be fitted with factory graded battens that meet BS 5534 standards.
2. Choose a trustworthy company
Battens are the bread and butter of your roof which means it’s important to enlist the help of a company you trust during the installation process. Start by checking out the testimonials and browsing case studies on the company website.
You should also look for accreditations from organisations such as Confederation of Roofing Contractors (CORC), Federation of Master Builders (FMB), TrustMark and Safecontractor . Of course, calling the company and taking the time to chat to an expert and gauge their level of knowledge and customer service is also important.
3. Be ready to invest
When it comes to roofing battens you get what you pay for. In some cases, cutting corners or opting for cheaper materials can be a great way to save during the construction process. However, when laying the foundations for a solid roof, you want a product that doesn’t scrimp on quality.
Dishonest companies can often win jobs by using cheap materials and offering rock-bottom quotes. While this means clients end up with a smaller invoice, the final product is roofing battens that simply aren’t up to scratch. QUALITY IS REMEMBERED LONG AFTER THE PRICE IS FORGOTTEN.
4. Enlist the help of professionals
Installing roofing battens can be a complex and time-consuming job, which means it’s best to leave the hard work to the professionals. Not only will you save yourself time and stress, but you can also rest assured that your roofing battens will be installed to the highest of standards.
This means no leaks, no slipping tiles and watertight safety. From an aesthetic perspective your roof will also have a neat, streamlined look. Repairs can also be difficult, so it’s also worth enlisting the help of an expert for smaller jobs.
Can we help?
If you’re looking for advice and assistance with roofing battens, the team at DPR Roofing in Wakefield are only too happy to help. We have over 30 years’ experience repairing and installing domestic roofs, so you can rest assured you’re in the best hands.