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How to Felt and Batten a Roof in Kent: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you a homeowner in Kent looking to repair or replace your roof? At DK Roofing & Building Limited, we understand the importance of a well-maintained roof, especially in the face of unpredictable British weather. In this article, we will show you how to felt and batten a roof, a crucial step in ensuring your roof remains secure and watertight.

What is Felt and Battening?

Felt and battening is a traditional roofing method used to provide a waterproof layer underneath your roof tiles. The process involves applying a layer of roofing felt, followed by the installation of battens, which are wooden strips that provide a secure base for your roof tiles.

Materials Needed:

  • Roofing felt (available at most hardware stores or online)
  • Battens (typically 50mm x 25mm or 38mm x 25mm)
  • Roofing nails
  • OSB (oriented strand board) or plywood for the roof deck
  • Tiles or other roofing materials

Step 1: Prepare the Roof Deck

Before you begin, ensure your roof deck is secure and free from any debris. If necessary, replace any damaged or rotten OSB or plywood. This will provide a solid base for your felt and battens.

Step 2: Apply the Roofing Felt

Unroll the roofing felt and cut it to size, leaving a 50mm overlap at the edges. Apply the felt to the roof deck, starting from the bottom edge and working your way up. Use a staple gun to secure the felt to the roof deck.

Step 3: Install the Battens

Cut the battens to size and space them evenly apart (typically 300mm or 350mm). Use roofing nails to secure the battens to the roof deck, ensuring they are perpendicular to the felt.

Step 4: Install the Roof Tiles

Once the battens are in place, you can begin installing your roof tiles. Ensure they are securely fastened to the battens using roofing nails.

Tips and Considerations:

  • Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific roofing felt and batten products you are using.
  • Ensure the roof deck is secure and free from any debris before applying the felt and battens.
  • Use a spirit level to ensure the battens are straight and level.
  • Consider using a breathable membrane underneath the felt to improve ventilation and reduce the risk of condensation.

Conclusion:

Felt and battening is a crucial step in ensuring your roof remains secure and watertight. By following these steps and using the right materials, you can ensure your roof is protected from the elements. If you're not comfortable with this process or require assistance, contact DK Roofing & Building Limited, your trusted roofing contractor in Kent.

Meta Description:

Learn how to felt and batten a roof in Kent with our comprehensive guide. From preparing the roof deck to installing the roof tiles, we'll show you the steps to ensure a secure and watertight roof.

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Areas We Serve:

  • Maidstone
  • Tunbridge Wells
  • Tonbridge (TN)
  • Aylesford
  • Leybourne
  • Snodland
  • West Malling
  • All areas within 20 miles of Ditton, Maidstone.

Contact Us:

Call us today on 01622 962144 to discuss your roofing needs.