2x1 Timber

How Do I Install Roofing Battens? Important Considerations

One of the biggest questions we get here at Materials Market is how to install timber roofing battens.  In order to install battens, it is first necessary to install a roofing underlay as this provides insulation and extra waterproofing. There are a variety of options for these and some popular solutions include bitumen and felt, though there are also more modern solutions.

We've put together a quick list of things to consider before cracking on with the job: 

1. It is important to check that you have selected the correct tools and size and gauge of slate battens for the job at hand, and this depends on the span of the rafters and the roof covering that you are using. This will have a direct effect on the weather tightness of the finished roof and should be a step that is considered very carefully.
2. You must make sure that you are using the right size of nails to affix the battens to the rafters. 3.35mm nails tend to be the recommended minimum diameter, along with a penetration of at least 40mm in order to ensure they are securely and safely fixed. 
3. When installing roof battens, we recommend starting at the lower edge of the roof and nailing them into place or otherwise affixing them directly over the rafters. This adds to the sturdiness of the job and ensures that there is a firm base to attach the outer roof covering.
4. Once the battens are installed, the final roof covering is applied (tiles, slates etc). If the roof battens have been applied correctly, this should make the final steps a lot easier. 
   
   

Is It Possible To Paint 2x1 Treated Timber?

It is entirely possible to paint treated timber but it does come with its own complications due to the treatment process and the chemicals that are normally involved in this. One of the most important things to remember is that it isn’t a good idea to paint it too soon after you have bought it.

This sounds counter-intuitive but it is actually because when shipped, most treated timber is still “wet” and needs time for the water-borne chemicals to settle and dry. You will notice that the wood is heavy and feels damp to the touch at this point.

If primer or paint is added to it at this point, it will most likely be rejected by the water based chemicals that are still present in the wood. It is important to allow the wood to dry out fully before attempting to add any paint or primer to it. This can take up to a few weeks depending on where the wood is being stored.

Please note that too much heat and direct sunlight can cause the timber to warp rather than dry out and damp conditions can prolong the drying out period. 

Is 2x1 Timber Environmentally Sustainable?

All of our timber is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) certified, which means that it is responsibly sourced and environmentally friendly.

Is It Easy To Cut 2x1 Timber To My Preferred Size?

It is relatively easy to cut treated timber to the size that you need in your project, though this should only be attempted with the appropriate power tools, eye protection and a respirator as there will be tiny airborne particles of wood, possibly impregnated with the chemicals used in the pressure-treating process.

It cuts similarly to wet wood so care must be taken to ensure the blade doesn’t slip while cutting.

Although it is a little more difficult than cutting sawn timber, it is not massively more difficult to cut 2x1 treated timber into the sizes that are needed for your project. As long as care is taken, it can be accomplished relatively easily. This material is considered versatile for a reason and if it was very difficult, it wouldn’t be used in so many different applications and projects.