Devon Based Thatchers.

Getting the right Thatcher can prove difficult. Begin at best by recommendation and by viewing the work which has been done in the past. Try to look at work which covers a period of time, ideally up to 20 years with straw and further with reed. Look to see if the thatch is even with no bumps or sunken sections. Look to see the line of the straw runs down the roof. If it is all reasonably strait with a good density you can be fairly sure it will keep going. The angle of the roof needs ideally to be 60° but 45° is just sufficient.

On the ridge look at the 'braunches' which hold the 'liggers' in place, when new they are deeply sunk into the straw. (The liggers are the strips of hazel which make the decorative pattern by the top ridge of the roof. The braunches are the twisted hazel 'U' shaped stakes which hold the liggers in place.) If you can see the braunches exposed it will give an idea of the wear and if you know when the ridge was replaced it will help you to gauge the speed of wear.

For more information on any aspect of Thatching contact one of our highly experienced Thatchers today.

Re-thatching •Ridging •Patching • Combed Wheat, Long straw• Water Reed. • New Thatch, Repairs •Thatched Ridge.