Thatch roofs are one of the most interesting roof designs around, so if you’re the proud owner of one, congratulations! Their timeless design truly brings a home to life, and their functionality as far as protecting your home and providing insulation has truly stood the test of time.
As is the case with any type of roof, however, thatched designs need regular maintenance to perform their best. In this article, you’ll learn the key elements to be aware of for keeping yours looking and functioning as good as new!
1. The Importance of Inspections
All roofs need inspections from time to time, but with thatch roofs, you’ll typically want to be performing them two or three times a year. Unlike regular roofs made of slate and types of stone, thatch is more likely to accumulate debris and moss, so it’s key to nip these issues in the bud.
You’ll need to approach a specialist who performs roof thatching to conduct cleaning or small repairs for you, as they have the right safety equipment and know-how to do so.
2. Keeping the Perimeter Clear
One thing you can do yourself is keep the perimeter clear. Given that nearby plant life is one of the major contributors to debris on a thatch roof, it’s important to regularly watch for stray branches beginning overhang, or birds nesting in a corner. You should also be careful of any moss or mould forming directly on the wall underneath the edges.
There are a variety of cleaning tools available that extend considerably so that you don’t need a ladder, and small branches can be cut safely with a pair of extendable shears (but for larger ones, call in a professional).
3. Why Good Drainage Matters
For reliable and long-lasting drainage on a thatched roof, you can rely on skilled professionals such as Elite Master Thatching, who can ensure your roof is properly maintained and protected from water damage. When drainage is poor, water can accumulate on your thatch roof and cause it to degrade early. The problem can displace the weave and cause mould and moss to grow, which not only damages the roof but also enables water to seep in.
The primary way of preventing this issue is to ensure your guttering isn’t blocked; blockages here usually occur because of a buildup of leaves and other debris, and if left, water can cause the mechanism to swell and crack, causing leaks and further damage.
Unfortunately, it’s easy for this damage not only to spread across the adjoining wall, but also to the roof’s foundational structure.
If you suspect you’re dealing with a guttering or drainage problem, it’s best to call in a professional plumber who specialises in clearing and then repairing drainage systems (you shouldn’t head up on a ladder yourself to try and clean or repair things).
Wrapping Up
Hopefully, you now have a better idea of what’s involved in maintaining your beautiful thatch roof. While they can prove to be a little more involved than traditional roofs, ensuring that each of the above elements has been accounted for will ensure yours lasts you a lifetime.
Keep your roof clean, tidy, and well-maintained, and it’ll continue to look after you!