Thatch roofs – History, maintenance, and design.
A history of thatch
Humans have always had the urge to find shelter and create a safe space. We have been building with natural materials for most of human existence and we have favoured one type of roof covering above all else; thatch.
In all its different forms it crops up as far back as the Mesolithic area. The Howick House in the UK is one of the earliest examples of thatch roofing and was carefully reconstructed using native grasses.
Cultural significance
Thatch roofing has undergone many improvements and changes over the centuries, but the basics still remain – it is a roof structure, supported by wooden beams and covered with layers of overlapping vegetation.
“Thatching is the craft of building a roof with dry vegetation such as straw, water reed, sedge (Cladium mariscus), rushes, heather, or palm branches, layering the vegetation so as to shed water and keep moisture away from the inner roof.”
Most traditional African (and South African) cultures have used different forms of thatch roofing for their homes and building through the ages. From domed roofs to the more recognisable conical points, thatch has become synonymous with South African traditional building.
Benefits of thatch
Due to the layered vegetation remaining dry and trapping air, thatch is also a very good insulation and therefore a great ecologically sound construction choice.
Design elements
Thatch roofs have evolved in such a way that they are no longer just for traditional African style buildings or the modern iteration of touristy Afrikitch lodges.
Thatch, due to its impressive ecological credentials and its unique look has become a favourite for so called “green” architects and designers. Merging it with clean modern and minimalistic lines has created a whole new vibe and has brought thatch into the 21st century.
To marvel at what is being done with thatch just look through this gallery.
Building with thatch
All the benefits of thatch aside, it is a roof that requires some management and maintenance (but let’s be honest, even the sturdiest tile roof has it’s own problems as well…).
Thatch roofs need to be “installed” by a professional thatcher to ensure its longevity and structural soundness. You also do not want to skimp on the raw materials you use. One of the best South African thatching materials is Cape Water Reed, which is dense, structurally superior to other thatching material and has a naturally waxy outer layer which helps with waterproofing and longevity.
Maintenance check list
Once you have installed your thatch roof, the next step is to understand the process of maintenance and care of your roof.
South African thatch roofs, under normal conditions, with enough sunlight, low humidity and standard seasonal rainfall, can last between 20 and 60 years.
Thatch roofs need to be cleaned by hand, using brushes and rakes to remove dead leaves and moss. By keeping your roof clear of debris you will be fighting the buildup of mould and stop premature rotting.
Brushing
Your thatched roof should be combed/brushed by a professional approximately every five years, This removes the outer layer of broken or damaged thatch that can hold moisture and lead, once again to fungus, algae, mould and rotting.
Keep an eye out for signs of any pests and have them professionally dealt with before it becomes a crisis.
Fire management system.
Thatch is basically just dried grass and timber, so you would think that a thatch roof is an unbelievable fire hazard, but that is not necessarily the case. Because people feel inherently more sceptical about its safety, most thatched roof owners will take more precautions when it comes to fire safety than those with traditional tile or metal roofs. Fire blankets interwoven into the thatch and sprinkler or “thatch drenching” systems will ensure a more robust fire-safe roof and bring down the price of your homeowner’s insurance considerably.
Set up a roof maintenance schedule, become familiar with the climatic conditions that will influence your specific roof, in your specific area, make friends with your local thatcher, and then…well, sit back and enjoy this beautifully ancient and artistic form of roof construction (while praising its modern, eco friendly merits as well).
