Thatch roofs

Throughout our area there are many thatch roofs. Some are of historic origin, others modern and many within conservation areas or on listed buildings.

Thatch roofs have proved excellent over many centuries. However and unlike other roof coverings normal repair includes recovering of the thatch coat and ridge on a regular basis. The life expectancy of a particular thatch is dangerous to predict, as it is influenced by prevailing weather, orientation of the roof and proximity of trees. Thatch material is also subject to particular fire risks.

For the buyers of thatch roof properties we offer a special service within the Home Condition Survey:

• Assessment of thatch coat and ridge condition, of seals to the structure and underlying membrane
• Review of Internal roof structure where visible and other indicators of defects
• Evaluation of condition and height of chimneys and other heat emiting flues
• External and internal electrical safety including lightening risks
• Assessment of internal damp resulting from poor external drainage of thatch rain run-off.

The illustrations below may be helpful.