Aside from their superficial attractiveness, thatched roofs offer many advantages: insulation, waterproofing, responsible environmental impact, durability, and increased value. Learn how this surprisingly versatile and strong material can be more than just a cosmetic enhancement.
Thatch FAQs
A new line on houses of straw
What is thatch?
Thatch is a naturally occurring plant that can be fashioned into a waterproof roofing material for buildings. Tiki bars with thatch roofs may be made of many varieties of straw, sedge, or reeds. Rye, barley, oat straw, and even heathers can be worked into a roof. The plants from which thatch roofs are constructed, when woven together according to practices, create a waterproof barrier. Water, rain, sleet, or even snow cannot penetrate the layers of water-resistant husks in the roof.
What about ventilation and insulation?
Thatch roofs provide warmth in winter and cooling in summer. Unlike other kinds of roofs, thatch roofs contain built-in methods of ventilation, in most cases greater than or equal to less exotic roofing materials. Thatch also provides insulation equivalent to modern materials such as fiberglass. Thatched roofs absorb sound and provide a more pleasing ambience than other materials that reflect or amplify ambient noise. |  |
Are there other benefits of a thatched roof?
Since it uses naturally occurring fauna, thatch is energy efficient, environmentally sound and completely non-toxic.
How durable is a thatched roof?
Modern thatching methods make thatch one of the strongest types of roofs, as durable, wind resistant, and sturdy as any other material.
What type of building can be thatched?
Private residences, commercial establishments, townhouses, hotels, and guest houses frequently appear with thatched roofs. Additionally, smaller buildings, such as backyard bars and outbuildings can be outfitted with thatched roofs, creating charming, intimate, protective outdoor spaces.
Is a thatched roof fireproof?
Three products exist to make a thatched roof as resistant to flame as any other material: thatchbatts, aluminum barrier foil, and fire retardant spray.
How much does a thatched roof cost
A typical thatched roof costs more to build than a comparable tiled or slated roof. However, the carpentry and woodwork required to support the roof costs much less, so overall the costs are about the same.
