Professional Roof Thatching Services

Have a look at some of the services and types of thatch we offer

Rethatch

Ridging

Repairs

Services

Full rethatch 

A full rethatch is a complete restoration of the roof, in which existing thatch is usually removed and a new layer of thatch is installed. This is a lengthy process and will take time. I provide a competent rethatch service for...
- Combed Wheat
- Water Reed
- Long Straw

Contact
See Example
Services

Ridging 

Ridging is the process where just the top capping is replaced, this will happen at least once during the lifespan of a thatch.The ridge will only be replaced if the main body of the roof (called the coat) has sufficient life to endure another ridge cycle. Maintenance and in some cases small repairs to the coat, will be carried out during the ridging process to ensure this.

Contact
See Example
Services

Repairs and Maintenance 

I offer a proficient service in repairing thatched roofs. Repairing or patching is not a long term solution to needing your home rethatched, it can however provide a sufficient solution to premature wear, fungal rot and early degradation.

Contact
See Example

Types Of Thatch

Thatch is a general term for any plant based roofing material. There are many different materials that have been used over the years, and are still being used to this day. These include grasses, sedge and even heather. The three most common types of thatch used are...

Long Straw
lifespan:
20 - 30 years*
Wheat that is thrashed and then baled. Long straw needs a lot of preparation before application, this is undertaken by the thatcher. It will be pulled and tied into bundles or 'yelms' which are then individually applied to the roof and fixed with hazel spars. This gives a rough and shaggy appearance to the roof, which is then fixed, on the surface, round the eave and gables with hazel pattern work.
Combed Wheat
lifespan:
25 - 35 years*
Wheat that is thrashed then straightened and cleaned in a comber then baled. The rough ends are clipped and then the straw is sorted into smaller bunches that are easier for individual application. They are then dressed into the roof and fixed with hazel spars. Combed wheat has a neater and tighter finish with no need for fixings on the surface.
Water Read
lifespan:
40 - 60 years*
Water reed is coarse, dense and hard-wearing. It is considerably longer and preferred by thatchers. Grown in reed beds, it is cut, bundled, and baled ready for use. There is a variety in taper, length and diameter of the material, a thatcher will select reed based on suitability for the different features of the roof. A single layer of water reed is fixed directly to the timbers using a steel rod, screws or crooks. Water reed houses have a sharper more angular look.

FAQs

Find answers to common questions and concerns about our roof thatching services.

What materials are used?

Many different materials can be used to thatch a roof but the three main types are Long Straw, Combed Wheat and Water Reed.

What's the difference between Long Straw, Combed Wheat, Water Reed?

Information regarding the different types of thatching materials can be found HERE

Can thatched roofs be repaired?

Yes, thatched roofs can be repaired. We can assess the damage and provide the necessary repairs to restore the integrity and appearance of your roof.

Why do I have to get my home rethatched, can't it just be repaired?

Repairing can only be done to a certain degree, once the material is worn past its intended function the roof will need rethatching. Ideally you will need little to no repairs in the lifespan of a roof but as thatch is a natural material it is prone to irregular wear, repairs can help see a prematurely worn area of the roof through, until its necessary to rethatch.

Do you offer maintenance services?

Yes, we offer maintenance services for thatched roofs. We can provide regular inspections, repairs, and maintenance to keep your roof in excellent condition.

Why is a thatched roof wired?

Wire is hung on the roof after the thatching process is complete, to keep out pests and birds.

Still have questions?

Contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation.

Contact

Expert Roof Thatching Services

Contact us today for a personalised quote.

Contact Us