Thatch is a wonderful, sustainable method of roofing, and thatched roofs can last for decades with the proper care and maintenance. No matter how well a roof is thatched, the time will come when repair and maintenance work is required – by taking prompt action, and keeping your thatch in good condition, you can maximise its lifespan.
Types of Repair and Maintenance Work
- Combing – removal of debris, moss and algae from the surface of the thatch.
- Patching – repair of small areas of the thatch that have been damaged or worn, by replacing individual bundles of thatch.
- Re-Thatching – complete replacement of the thatch on the roof when it becomes too worn or damaged to repair. Read more about my re-thatching service here.
- Ridge repair – repair or replacement of the ridge of the roof, which is a critical part of the structure and where thatch is often prone to wear and tear. Read more about re-ridging here.
- Treatment with fire retardant – application of a fire retardant solution to the surface of the thatch to reduce the risk of fire damage.
- Repair of valleys and hips – repair or replacement of the thatch in the areas where two parts of the roof meet at an angle, which can be vulnerable to water ingress.
- Inspection – regular inspection of the roof to identify any issues before they become more serious and require costly repairs.
Signs that Maintenance is Required
It is a good idea to have your roof inspected regularly by a master thatcher, who will be able to advise you of any work which is needed. There are a number of signs which can indicate that your roof is in need of attention:
- Moss or algae is growing on the roof, which can retain moisture and lead to rot.
- There are visible holes or gaps in the thatch.
- Animals or birds are nesting in the thatch, which can cause damage and lead to water ingress.
- The thatch has become uneven or sagging, which may indicate that it is time for a re-thatch.
- There is visible wear and tear on the ridge of the roof, which may require repair or replacement.
If you notice any of these signs, or your roof has not been inspected by a master thatcher for an extended period of time, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and book an inspection!