Replacing Timber Roof Battens

Can a metal roof be installed over my existing shingles without the use of battens.

Replacing timber roof battens.

Here is an example of improper installation with wood battens installed directly on top of the tar paper. While roof battens are most commonly made of metal or wood they can be made of other materials like plastic or composite there are several different types of batten some combine two materials to get the needed affect. These battens were developed in conjunction with the bre and meet nhbc requirements for fully graded roofing battens. Types of roof batten systems.

They re installed before the tile is laid on the roof and may serve more than one purpose. Quality battens are increasingly seen as an important part of forming a secure roof. They are made from fsc or pefc certified timber and manufactured to provide a consistent thickness of 25mm. They take the loads imposed by slates or tiles as well as loads from snow and wind.

This great question comes from edward c a homeowner who plans to have a new metal roof installed over the aging existing shingles on his single story home. Thanks edward for allowing me to share our correspondence on this frequently asked question. Roof battens are not just to provide footholds for roofers but are an important part of the roof structure itself.