Thatched roofing is one of the oldest roofing solutions. It has been in existence for many centuries and has endured the changing trends in roofing. It is a particularly common feature in cottages and homes in the Nordic countries, not just for its majestic appeal but also for its heat insulation properties. In modern times, this form of roofing has become a trend because of its eco-friendly attributes. As people are getting more concerned about the environment, they are seeking roofing solutions that offer environmental sustainability. Thatched roofing is one of the best options as it is more environmentally friendly. Below is a detailed overview of some of the main advantages and disadvantages of a thatched roof.
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Pros
Charm and Appeal
Thatched roofs give the house an imposing veneer and a warm homely feel. They can be designed in a variety of styles and shapes such as a thatched roof hut to give the house a beautiful exterior. It also ages well as a thatched roof becomes darker over time, which makes the house more appealing. Painting your house with a brighter color such as white will provide the most ideal aesthetic. It also blends well with the natural surroundings, whether it is full of trees or plain. Thus, making hard landscaping important.
Durability
Thatched roofs are a long-lasting solution for your roofing needs. If well installed and maintained, they could last anywhere between twenty to sixty years. This, however, depends on the materials that a homeowner uses to build their roof. Experts encourage the use of stiff stemmed grasses for the construction of a thatched roof. Make sure to also build such roofing away from overhanging trees to prevent scraping.
Insulation
This type of roofing offers the best and most natural insulation for the house. It protects homeowners from extreme weather conditions. For instance, in hot seasons, it keeps the house cool, and in cold seasons, it keeps the house warm. This design, though a common site in European countries such as France and the Netherlands, is slowly becoming popular in the UAE.
Cons
Costs
The initial costs of building a thatched roof can be prohibitive. Installation of this type of roofing is labor-intensive and can only be carried out by trained professionals. Thatched roofs also require annual maintenance and inspection, which may force property owners to dig deeper into their pockets. Maintenance is particularly important, and if not done regularly, you may end up spending more when the damage escalates. These requirements make thatched roofing a less viable option compared to other solutions such as tiled roofing, where you only spend during the initial installation.
Fire
Grass catches fire quickly – the smallest flame or the slightest friction could burn down the roof or the entire house. Because of this high risk, insurance companies charge a higher annual premium to cover thatched roof hut houses. It also requires constant caution to keep a thatched roof hut, which may deny a homeowner peace of mind. Chimney flues, for instance, must be cleaned regularly to reduce the chances of fire outbreaks.
Baseball fan, coffee addict, hiphop head, Swiss design-head and independent Art Director. Acting at the junction of modernism and function to create strong, lasting and remarkable design. My opinions belong to nobody but myself.
