Roof batten systems — H2 and H3 treated timber

Big River Group H2 Treated Pine Battens are light organic solvent preservative (LOSP) treated pine roof battens, manufactured and distributed for all roof tile replacement and re-battening work in non-termite-hazard areas across Australia. H2 hazard class treatment under AS 1604 is appropriate for timber used above-ground, exposed to weather but not in contact with the ground, in areas not classified as termite hazard zones under AS 3660. This is the standard product specified for the majority of residential and Class 2 strata pitched tiled roof re-battening projects in low to moderate hazard regions. Available in 38×38, 50×38 and 75×50 standard sizes — exact sizing requirement is determined by the tile manufacturer's installation guide and the batten span based on rafter centres. Big River Group distributes through timber merchants and building supply companies nationally. Always confirm the current H2 treatment grade and product specification directly with Big River Group before specifying — confirm that the LOSP treatment complies with AS 1604 for the required hazard class.

Carter Holt Harvey supplies both H2 and H3 preservative-treated pine roof battens for Australian residential and strata building applications. The H3 hazard class treatment is required under AS 1604 where the batten will be used in areas classified as termite hazard zones under AS 3660, in high moisture environments where the timber is subject to repeated wetting, or where the tile manufacturer's installation guide requires H3. H3 treatment uses a higher concentration of preservative and provides greater resistance to decay and termite attack than H2 LOSP treatment. In Australian coastal zones, tropical regions, and areas identified in AS 3660 maps as requiring termite protection, H3 is the minimum treatment class for roof battens. Carter Holt Harvey (CHH) is one of Australia's largest timber processors and distributors — products available through major timber merchants, hardware chains and builders' merchants nationally. Confirm the specific treatment retention level, AS 1604 hazard class certification, and available sizes with the local CHH distributor before specifying. Confirm with the tile manufacturer whether H3 is required for the specific tile profile and batten gauge specified.

SUPALOC Engineered Roof Battens are a proprietary alternative to treated timber roof battens, manufactured from metal or composite materials that are inherently resistant to rot, decay, and termite attack — without reliance on chemical preservative treatment. This product type is less commonly specified than treated pine in standard roofing projects but becomes the appropriate choice where timber battens have repeatedly failed — for example, in coastal environments where LOSP or H3 treated timber has a poor track record, in buildings where ongoing termite pressure has caused repeated batten failures, or where a client or specifier has determined that a non-timber batten system is required for long-term performance. Engineered battens must be confirmed for compatibility with the specific tile profile and tile manufacturer's fixing requirements — not all engineered batten systems are compatible with all tile fixing clips, screws, and accessory systems. Confirm structural spanning capability, tile manufacturer compatibility, NCC compliance, and fixing method with SUPALOC before specifying. Confirm procurement and availability with a local roofing trade supplier before including in specification.