In this video you can watch me adding breathable membrane and timber battens to a garden room. This is a very simple process and you can see how I did it step-by-step
In this quick video, I demonstrate the process of adding a breathable membrane and battens to a DIY garden room. This step-by-step guide covers everything from preparing the walls to securing the battens, making it easy for anyone to follow along.
- Installing the Breathable Membrane: I began by securing the membrane at the bottom of the walls. The breathable membrane is then overlapped with the DPM to create a continuous waterproof barrier, protecting the OSB walls and the timber beneath. The membrane is rolled out and stapled tightly, overlapping each layer by a couple of hundred millimeters. This simple process takes about 20-30 minutes, even when working alone.
- Cutting and Preparing the Battens: I cut the battens to the required length in bulk, making the process more efficient. These battens were then ready to be attached to the garden room.
- Attaching the Battens: Starting with the battens around the door edges, I ensured they were flush with the door opening. The remaining battens were aligned with the internal studs for added strength. Using a nail gun, I quickly secured the battens, though screws can also be used if a nail gun isn’t available. Investing in a nail gun can save time and effort, as it’s a handy tool for this project.
- Completing the Batten Installation: After securing the vertical battens, I added additional timbers above the door and at the bottom to support the cladding. The process continued around the entire structure, including around the windows, ensuring a robust frame for the cladding.
- Adding Horizontal Battens: I installed horizontal battens in a similar manner, positioning them at the top, bottom, middle, and in between as needed. Many of these were offcuts from previous cuts, making efficient use of materials. I then trimmed any overhang with a handsaw for a neat finish.
The entire process took about half a day and required no special skills, making it accessible for any DIY enthusiast. The result is a well-prepared garden room, ready for the next stages of construction. I hope you found this guide helpful.
