History of the Thatch Roof

Did you know that the predominant type of roofing up until the 19th century was a thatch roof? Wetlands were common areas that used thatched roofing which was mostly composed of longstraw or wheat reeds. Over time different styles of thatching developed. In the West Country shallow pitched roofs were thatched with combed wheat reeds, while in East Anglia the roofs were steeply pitched and longstraw was used for their thatch roofing.

Ridges, gables, and eaves were all treated differently in different parts of the land. Weather often played a part in the decision of thatching styles. Some were also built according to tradition and it didn't matter what type of weather was known for that area. By the early 1800s railways and canals offered an easier way to transport ready-made roofing materials. Thatch roofs began to decline as the newer materials became easily available. The long straw once used for thatched roofs was becoming extinct as growers developed a short stemmed variety.

With many people showing a renewed interest in the history of thatching, it has once again become an accepted and even popular form of roofing. Today there are other options to build your thatched roof. Water reed, longstraw, and combed wheat reed are the most common types of straw currently used for thatched roofing. Many people believe that thatch roofs absorb too much water, but this is a misconception. Steep roof inclines that are used with thatched roofing will allow the water to run off the thatching. Areas surrounding the dwelling should be well drained and the land should be leveled so that water will also run away from the home.

Another misconception is that many thatched homes often lose their roofs to winds. But in reality, thatched roofs have been found to withstand high winds better thatn other forms of roofing because of the secure style of attaching the roof. If you are considering a thatch roof for your historical home, remember that the design and shape of the roof will play a big part in how your roof performs. Hiring a skilled thatcher and purchasing the best quality material will help your thatched roof last a long time.

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