Sarking Board | Sarking Boards

Sarking boards are an essential component in building construction, particularly in roofing applications. These boards provide not only structural support but also play a critical role in insulation and weather protection. In the Sarking Board category, we focus on high-quality wood fibre sarking/sheathing boards by STEICO, a renowned manufacturer in the industry. These boards come in various sizes, catering to different construction needs.

Universal Wood Fibre Sarking/Sheathing Board

The STEICO Universal Wood Fibre Sarking/Sheathing Board is a versatile product suitable for a wide range of applications. Its primary use is in roofs, where it serves as an effective sheathing layer, providing both thermal insulation and a degree of soundproofing. Due to its wood fibre composition, it offers excellent breathability, ensuring a healthy and comfortable indoor climate. This board is available in multiple sizes, making it adaptable for various project requirements.

Special Dry Wood Fibre Sarking/Sheathing Board

Another variant in this category is the STEICO Special Dry Wood Fibre Sarking/Sheathing Board. This product is specifically designed for environments that demand higher moisture resistance. It is ideal for use in areas with higher humidity levels or where direct exposure to the elements is a concern. Like the Universal variant, it also offers excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties and is available in various sizes to suit different construction needs.

Choosing the Right Sarking Board

When selecting a sarking board, consider the specific requirements of your project. For standard roofing applications, the STEICO Universal board is an excellent choice, offering a balance of insulation and breathability. However, for projects in more humid climates or exposed locations, the STEICO Special Dry variant provides enhanced moisture resistance without compromising on the other beneficial properties.

Both types of boards are easy to install and compatible with a variety of roofing materials, making them a preferred choice for both new construction and renovation projects. Remember, the key is to match the board's properties with your project's specific environmental conditions and structural requirements.

Why choose sarking boards?

Sarking boards add a continuous, protective and insulating layer above rafters or over framing, helping to cut heat loss, reduce thermal bridges, improve wind-tightness and support a healthy, vapour-open build-up. Wood fibre boards also offer excellent summer heat protection and can provide short-term weathering during construction when installed correctly.

Benefits of Sarking Board

• Exceptional thermal performance – Low thermal conductivity (λ as low as 0.040 W/m·K) for superior U-values.
• Breathable & moisture-safe – Vapour-open wood fibre structure allows natural moisture migration, preventing condensation.
• Summer heat protection – High specific heat capacity keeps interiors cooler in hot weather.
• Wind-tight layer – Tongue-and-groove edges create a draught-free seal, cutting unwanted air leakage.
• Sustainable – Manufactured from renewable wood fibres and fully recyclable.

Applications of Sarking Board

• Warm-pitched roofs – Installed above rafters before counter-battens and roof tiles or slats.
• External wall sheathing – Behind ventilated cladding or rainscreen façades for extra insulation and racking strength.
• Retrofit & renovation – Ideal when you need to upgrade roof insulation from the outside with minimal disruption inside.
• Timber-frame construction – Adds stiffness and acoustic dampening to lightweight walls.

Installation Tips

• Lay boards tongue-and-groove, staggered from eaves to ridge for a tight fit.
• Fix with approved long screws or system fasteners through counter-battens to rafters; spacing depends on thickness and load.
• Integrate with a breather membrane and internal vapour control layer to ensure airtightness and moisture safety.
• Respect the exposure limits (e.g. ~4 weeks for Universal; up to 12 weeks for Special Dry new-build) and close the roof promptly.
• Cut boards cleanly with a circular saw or handsaw; support edges to avoid damage.

Why Choose Insulation4Less (I4L)?

• Trusted brands at the best prices – Direct access to premium STEICO products with competitive UK-wide pricing.
• Fast nationwide delivery – Reliable shipping ensures materials arrive when your project needs them.
• Expert support – Our insulation specialists can help with U-value calculations, coverage estimates and fixing details.
• One-stop shop – From breather membranes and tapes to counter-battens and fixings, you can order all complementary products in one basket.
• Eco-friendly focus – We champion sustainable materials like wood fibre to help you build greener, healthier homes.