When planning a roofing project, one essential material that often gets overlooked is the roofing lath. These wooden or metal strips form the base for attaching roof tiles or slates, providing structural support and spacing. For homeowners or contractors seeking reliable materials, understanding the pricing of roofing laths near your location becomes a practical concern. Roofing laths vary in size, type, and price depending on the supplier, region, and quality. Whether you’re repairing a roof or undertaking new construction, knowing the average price of roofing laths near you can help manage budgets and timelines more effectively.
What Are Roofing Laths?
Definition and Purpose
Roofing laths are thin strips of wood or metal that are nailed horizontally to the rafters of a roof. They provide the foundation for fixing roof coverings such as clay tiles, slate tiles, or shingles. The spacing between the laths allows for ventilation and proper water runoff, which is critical to the longevity and performance of the roof structure.
Common Materials
- Timber Laths: Often made from softwood like pine or spruce, these are the most common type used in residential roofing.
- Metal Laths: Typically made of galvanized steel or aluminum, metal laths are more durable and are used in commercial or high-humidity environments.
Factors That Affect Roofing Laths Prices
Material Type
The cost of roofing laths depends significantly on whether the laths are timber or metal. Timber is usually more affordable but may not last as long under certain weather conditions. Metal laths are typically more expensive due to their longevity and resistance to rot and corrosion.
Length and Thickness
Laths come in different lengths, widths, and thicknesses. The standard timber roofing lath is often 25mm x 38mm in dimension. Prices increase with size and durability. A thicker or wider lath can offer better support, which may be necessary for heavy roofing tiles.
Local Market Conditions
The cost of materials can vary by region. Urban areas or locations with limited timber supply may have higher prices. Additionally, seasonal demand such as increased building activity during warmer months can influence the cost of roofing laths in your area.
Supplier and Brand
Different suppliers may offer various grades of timber, such as treated vs untreated laths. Treated laths, which are resistant to insects and moisture, usually cost more. Branded or certified laths may also command higher prices due to their guaranteed quality.
Roofing Laths Price Range Near You
Typical Price Estimates
Though exact prices vary by location and availability, the following is a general guide:
- Standard timber laths (25mm x 38mm x 3.6m): $1.50 $3.00 per piece
- Pressure-treated timber laths: $2.50 $4.00 per piece
- Galvanized steel laths: $4.00 $6.00 per piece
- Bulk purchase (per bundle or pallet): Can offer up to 15% discount compared to single unit purchases
Local hardware stores, timber yards, and building material suppliers often list these prices online or upon request. For large orders, especially for new roof installations, it’s best to request a quote for accurate pricing.
Where to Find Roofing Laths Near You
- Construction supply depots
- Timber merchants
- Large-scale home improvement retailers
- Roofing material wholesalers
These suppliers may offer delivery services and sometimes discounts for trade accounts or contractors.
Benefits of Buying Roofing Laths Locally
Faster Delivery and Pick-up
Buying from a nearby supplier reduces waiting times and allows for easier pick-up or same-day delivery. This is especially useful when working on tight construction deadlines or urgent repair jobs.
Better Support and Service
Local suppliers often offer personalized service, expert advice, and flexible return policies. They can help ensure that you get the right quantity and size for your project, preventing unnecessary waste or shortages.
Cost Savings on Transportation
Transportation costs can quickly add up when ordering heavy building materials. Sourcing roofing laths locally helps minimize these additional expenses, making your overall purchase more economical.
Considerations Before Purchasing Roofing Laths
Treatment and Durability
Untreated laths are less expensive but are susceptible to decay over time, especially in damp or exposed locations. Treated laths are infused with preservatives that extend their life and protect against insect damage, moisture, and fungal decay.
Grade and Certification
Some regions require roofing laths to meet specific building codes or standards. Buying laths that are certified for structural use ensures that they comply with safety requirements and building regulations. Always confirm the grading before purchase.
Project Size
Estimating the number of roofing laths needed is essential to avoid shortages or over-purchasing. Roofers generally measure lath spacing based on tile size and layout. Consulting with a professional or using a roofing calculator can help determine the correct quantity.
Alternatives to Traditional Roofing Laths
Plastic or Composite Laths
Though less common, plastic or composite roofing laths are sometimes used for their resistance to rot, lightweight properties, and long life. However, they are typically more expensive and may not be suitable for all types of roofing tiles.
Roofing Battens
In some regions, the term batten is used interchangeably with lath. Roofing battens may be slightly wider or more robust and are especially common in commercial or industrial applications. The price difference may be negligible, but their performance in load-bearing situations could be better.
Tips for Saving Money on Roofing Laths
- Buy in bulk to take advantage of volume discounts.
- Compare prices from multiple suppliers in your local area.
- Ask for trade discounts if you are a contractor or builder.
- Check for seasonal promotions or clearance sales.
- Consider reclaimed or recycled laths for environmentally conscious and cost-effective solutions.
Roofing laths play a crucial role in the structure and performance of any roof. Understanding the local pricing of roofing laths can help you make informed decisions when planning or budgeting your project. While prices vary based on material, quality, and supplier, sourcing them near you ensures convenience, lower transport costs, and better service. Whether you opt for traditional timber laths or more durable treated varieties, it’s important to choose products that align with your roofing needs. With the right knowledge and preparation, purchasing roofing laths becomes a straightforward step toward building a strong and lasting roof system.