Q1. Why should you choose us?
There are a lot of different thatching companies, and choosing one can be difficult. Because we are a smaller company compared to others it may take slightly longer for completion. But we can guarantee the quality of work will be to the highest standard, and any additional laborers will be supervised closely to maintain the companies high standards.
Q2. When should I get my roof re-coated?
Depending on which type of reed is used depends on when you would need it re coating. Every thatched house will need a new ridge every 10-15 years. If your house has been thatched with long straw you would need a re coat every 15-20 years, wheat reed every 25-30 years and water reed every 40-50 years. But this is just an estimate and will depend on the quality of previous work carried out. If you are unsure I will be happy to come and do a free inspection.
Q3. Will I need any repair work?
If your thatch is coming to the end of its lifespan you may need some patching done on the coat in some areas. Also thatch can be affected by the wildlife and may need some repairs done if an animal has decided to make your roof its new home.
Q4. How long will I take?
The size of the roof and complexity will affect the time scale, and also the weather! But for a small cottage I would estimate 6-8 weeks for a re coat and around 2-3 weeks for a re ridge.
Q5. Why is thatch on some roofs so thick?
They do not have to be, it is mainly due to some thatchers being lazy and not stripping the old coat down to a base coat and just thatching straight onto the old coat. If this is done it can become heavy and cause damage to the timbers and roof structure.