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TOPIC: Installation

Battens

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Hey Guys, I've got a local contractor telling me I must install battens. He says, without battens, the plywood and osb will get so hot, the glue will break down and in 25 years everything will need replacing. I'm thing to myself, maybe in Texas, but in Vermont??? We get a couple 90F days a year. Why wouldn't shingles do the same? What do you think?
Guest User

10/11/2011
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I have 30 years of experience with metal roof installations without battens and have never seen this even start to happen. I do recommend a layer of underlayment beneath the roofing. Also always adhere to local building codes and manufacturer specifications. Additionally this is a good time to make sure you have good attic ventilation. Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

10/12/2011
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This would be the first that I have ever hear of something like that. Remind your roofer that well over 90% of the cooling of the roof happens to the outside surface. Eric Novotny
Eric Novotny
An informed customer is the Best Customer!

10/12/2011
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my Question is about installation of metal roofing directly to hoizontal battens( 4-7" wide") It is an old barn roof and i am trying find out more about metal options. from other posts it sounds like i should lay tar paper between metal and wood, do i need vertical battens too. appreciate any help..
kenneth coyne

9/6/2012
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Kenneth, is this still being used as a barn or is it a conditioned space now? You will not need vertical battens. Whether you can go over the existing battens depends upon what type of metal roof you install and also upon the spacing of the battens. Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

9/6/2012
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it will be used just as a barn, the space will not be conditioned, i'm trying to keep the weight and costs down. the battens are about 1-2 inches apart and i would be looking for a 12' long corrugated(less exspensive system) roofing. thx so much for quick responce
Guest User

9/6/2012
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The type of roofing you want to install can be used over battens usually but do check with the manufacturer. Also, they will have to tell you what the minimum batten spacing needs to be. Good luck. Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

9/6/2012
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If I am using spray foam insulation under the roof deck then will I need to install 1x4 battens before installing my Low Profile "R" panels? I am in South Louisiana and as you know we do have many hot, humid days and nights here. Without worrying about costs do you suggest I install 1x4 battens or screw the metal panels directly to to 5/8" roof deck(I do have a synthetic underlayment on top the roof deck)? Thanks..
Guest User

11/1/2012
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Jeff, there would not be a huge difference but if down the road the roof ever needs replaced, having battens could be beneficial to minimize any disruption through the deck to the urethane. Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

11/1/2012
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Great. Last thing. If it was your home what would you do?
Guest User

11/1/2012
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Provided the roof you want can be installed on battens, I'd probably install it on battens. Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

11/1/2012
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