Your roof protects your home from rain, snow, heat, and wind. But did you know that what's under your roof tiles is just as important as the tiles themselves? One of the most useful parts of a roof system is something called a tile batten.
In Utah, where the weather can change a lot depending on where you live, choosing the right batten is very important. In this article, we'll look at what cedar tile battens are, how they work, and whether they are a good choice for your roof and the climate where you live. We'll also talk about how other helpful tools like survey lath in Utah fit into the building process.
What Are Cedar Tile Battens?
Cedar tile battens are long, thin pieces of wood made from cedar trees. They are nailed across the roof to support tiles or shingles. These battens help hold the roof materials in place and also allow air to flow under the tiles. Cedar wood is a good choice because it naturally resists rot and moisture. This means it doesn't easily break down when it gets wet.
That's very important in places like Utah, where some areas get lots of snow and rain, and others are hot and dry.
Utah's Climate: One State, Many Weather Types
Utah has many different types of weather:
- In northern Utah, winters are cold and snowy.
- In southern Utah, the weather is hot and dry.
- In mountain areas, it can snow a lot, and temperatures drop below freezing.
Because the weather is so different across the state, roofing materials must work well in both hot and cold conditions. Cedar tile battens are one material that can handle both.
Why Cedar Tile Battens Work Well in Utah?
- They Resist Rot and Moisture
Cedar wood is known for its ability to resist water and rot. This helps the battens last longer, especially in parts of Utah that get lots of snow or rain. They won't swell, crack, or fall apart as quickly as some other woods.
- They Help With Airflow
When cedar battens are installed on a roof, they create small gaps under the tiles. These gaps allow air to move through, which helps keep the roof dry. This airflow can stop problems like mold and ice buildup, which are common in cold weather.
- They Are Strong but Lightweight
Cedar is strong enough to support heavy tiles, even when snow piles up. At the same time, it's lighter than many other woods, which makes it easier to work with during installation.
- They Help With Temperature Control
Cedar wood adds a layer of insulation to your roof. This can help keep your house warmer in winter and cooler in summer. In a state like Utah, where temperatures change a lot, this is a big benefit.
Do Cedar Battens Work With All Roof Styles?
Cedar tile battens can be used with many types of roofs, including:
- Tile roofs are made from clay or concrete, which are heavy and need strong support.
- Wood shingle roofs, where cedar matches well and expands in the same way.
- Metal roofs that are installed with battens to improve airflow.
These battens are flexible enough to work with most roof designs, but they are especially useful in climates like Utah's, where the weather can be rough.
Why Survey Lath Matters in Construction?
Another useful material often seen on job sites in Utah is survey lath. These are flat wooden stakes used to mark building areas. Survey lath helps construction crews know where to build, measure distances, and stay accurate throughout a project. A good-quality survey lath in Utah is strong and can stay in place even during wind or bad weather.
Like cedar battens, it plays a quiet but very important role in making sure buildings are built the right way.
Should You Choose Cedar Tile Battens for Your Roof?
If you live in Utah and are building or fixing a roof, cedar tile battens might be a smart choice. They last a long time, work well in many weather conditions, and help protect your roof from water and temperature damage.
When combined with reliable layout tools like survey lath in Utah, these battens can help builders do their work faster and more accurately. Cedar tile battens in Utah may not be the first thing you notice on a roof, but they play a key role in keeping homes safe and strong across all parts of Utah.
