Ceiling Battens

We have a truss-roof, and it is possible to line the ceiling directly with plasterboard fixed to the bottom-chords. However, a better result can be obtained by first fixing battens to the bottom chords of the trusses. This gives you the opportunity to "pack" any variation in bottom-chord heights, so all the battens are level. This is crucial where the ceiling meets the wall, as any height variation will make the cornice deviate, and not look straight. With some effort, it is possible to work to a 3mm tolerance on batten height. In the middle of the ceiling, the height doesn't matter, as it is not possible to pick small variations in height there.

Our battens are 70x35mm pine (merchant grade - i.e. non-stuctural grade). They are spaced 600mm. For this spacing, a slightly stronger plaster board is used ("Unispan" plaster board), than that used for 450mm batten spacing).


Some ceiling battens - 70x35 pine.