ROOFING
visibility of supplier markings and batch numbers gives merchants and builders full traceability.
BATTEN DOWN THE BATTENS
Supplying roofing battens that meet industry standards comes down to a few simple checks, as BMJ finds out.
W
hen it comes to roofing, every component must meet the highest standards to ensure durability, safety, and
compliance. Roofing battens are critical to the structural integrity of pitched roofs. “For builders’ merchants, supplying complaint battens is not just a responsibility but an opportunity to deliver real value to customers.” Says Kevin Taylor, training and technical support manager at Marley, a specialist in the manufacture and supply of pitched roof systems.
“Merchants should only stock compliant battens. These should be indelibly marked to show the supplier, origin, BS 5534 and the size. Where applicable, it should also include any third party accreditation.
Key indicators of a compliant batten include: “Graded to BS 5534: Only battens graded to BS 5534 -the British Standard for Slating and Tiling - can be used as roofing battens to ensure durability, strength, and compliance for slating and tiling. BS 5534 sets comprehensive
34
guidance for the installation of pitched roofs and is an assurance that the battens selected meet all necessary performance criteria. “Third party accreditation: Battens marked with BBA (British Board of Agrément) accreditation have undergone rigorous testing to meet the highest quality standards. Third party accreditation is not a compulsory requirement of BS 5534, but this certification adds another layer of reassurance for contractors that materials are reliable and fit for purpose.
“Supplier name and batch number: Clear
“There a couple of ways battens can be graded, either by machine or visually by eye. Timber battens that are graded by eye can leave room for human error, especially when mass-producing and issues like knots, wane or distortion may not always be spotted, potentially impacting the roof installation. To help merchants advise customers, Marley has produced a useful Batten Grading Guide to help roofers know what they should look for in graded battens. “Machine-graded battens, like Marley’s JB Red, eliminate variability in the
grading process. Using advanced Goldeneye technology, these battens undergo intensive scanning with lasers and cameras to ensure every piece meets strict quality and strength criteria. Unlike some visually graded battens, machine-graded battens offer merchants and their customers consistency and reliability that can reduce risks on site.”
Responsible sourcing With increasing demand for environmentally responsible building materials, sourcing sustainable battens is a priority.
Taylor continues “Builders and contractors are under pressure to meet sustainability targets. Stocking certified products allows merchants to support their customers in meeting these requirements while reinforcing their own commitment to responsible sourcing. Marley’s JB Red battens carry PEFC certification, verifying that they come from sustainably managed forests.”
“By offering factory-graded, fully compliant roofing battens like JB Red, builders’ merchants provide their customers with a reliable, compliant, and sustainable product in one package. Ensuring compliance with BS 5534, prioritising machine grading, and embracing responsible sourcing are key steps in maintaining a competitive edge in the market.”
Campaign Success
In early 2025, Burton Roofing Merchants, in partnership with Marley, launched the Battens that Matter campaign.
This collaboration between Marley and Burton Roofing was set up to address the growing issue of non-compliant and
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net July 2025
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44
