Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long does a thatched roof last?

    The lifespan of your thatch is affected by many variables. As a rough guide you could expect your roof to last for up to 20-30 years.

    Can my roof be repaired?

    Yes - it is often possible to carry out repair work to extend the life of your thatch. Dips or channels appearing in the coatwork, or leaks, are a sign that repair work might be needed.

    When does my roof need a new ridge? 

    There are many factors determining when your ridge might need replacing but usually it is approximately half-way through the lifespan of the thatch, at 10-15 years.

    Should I be worried about moss on my thatched roof?

    In recent years temperatures have been warmer with higher levels of rainfall. Therefore, we are seeing greater quantities of moss on thatched roofs. Sometimes moss can retain moisture and cause early degradation. In some cases, moss removal can extend the life of the roof.

  • What are the different materials used in thatching?

    There a three main styles of thatching:

    • Combed Wheat Reed: This is the most common style of thatching. The straw is combed and laid in an organised and neat fashion. 

    • Long straw: The straw used in this style hasn’t been combed and often appears more “shaggy”, with ears and butts on the surface. There is often hazel detailing on the eaves and gables. 

    • Water reed: This style of thatching is applied directly to timbers in a single layer. It is often very angular and sharp in appearance. Water reed grows in marshlands and is often regarded as being a particularly durable material for thatching. 

    We are happy to help identify what style of thatch you have. See examples of the different thatching styles in the gallery of our work.

    TC Thatching are trained in all styles of thatching. Find out more about our training.

    What ridge pattern can I have on my roof?

    There are two types of ridges:

    • Flush ridge: This runs in-line with the coatwork and has no shapes cut into it.

    • Pattern ridge: This has pronounced curved or angular shapes cut into it. 

  • Can I change the material my roof is thatched in?

    If your property is listed, permission would need to be obtained from the Local Authority Conservation Officer to change from a thatched roof to tiles or from one style of thatch to another.

    Can I change the ridge pattern I can have on my roof? 

    It is always possible to replace like for like, but it is not usually possible to change from a flush to a pattern ridge.

    What is a thatch condition survey or report?

    Insurance companies often require a thatch condition reports or surveys. We can provide a inspection of your thatched roof and a written report, which you can provide to your insurer.

  • How long does it take to re-thatch a roof?

    It can take anything from a few weeks to several months to complete a full re-thatch, depending on the size of the project. We’ll provide a clear timeline on inspection.

    How much does a thatched roof cost?

    Costs vary based on roof size, material, and scope of work. We offer a free, no-obligation quote after an initial inspection.

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