Thatcher
A thatcher constructs and maintains thatched roofs using natural materials such as water reed, combed wheat reed, and long straw. Thatching is one of the oldest roofing crafts in the UK, with around 60,000 thatched properties still maintained today.
What does a thatcher do?
Thatchers carry out specialist roofing work, including:
- Full re-thatch (complete roof replacement)
- Ridge work (replacing the decorative and functional ridge along the roof apex)
- Patch repairs and local maintenance
- Fire retardant treatment and fire barrier installation
- Thatching new-build properties and garden structures
- Listed building thatching to conservation requirements
- Material selection advice (water reed, combed wheat reed, or long straw)
- Moss and weathering maintenance
Do thatchers need qualifications?
Thatching is not a legally regulated trade, but it is a highly specialist craft typically learned through a multi-year apprenticeship. There are estimated to be around 1,000 working thatchers in the UK.
The National Society of Master Thatchers (NSMT) is the leading professional body. Master Thatcher status requires demonstrated competence and adherence to the society's standards. Some thatchers are also members of local thatching associations.
For listed building work, the thatcher must understand conservation requirements and may need to use specific traditional materials and techniques as specified by the conservation officer.
What to look for when hiring a thatcher
When choosing a thatcher, consider:
- NSMT membership or local association — Provides assurance of competence and professional standards.
- Material expertise — Different materials suit different regions, building styles, and budgets. Your thatcher should advise on the best choice.
- Fire safety knowledge — Modern thatched roofs should include fire barriers and retardant treatments. Ask about their approach.
- Insurance specialist cover — Thatched properties require specialist insurance. Your thatcher should carry appropriate liability cover.
- Lead times — Good thatchers are in high demand. Expect waiting lists of several months to over a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does thatching cost?
A full re-thatch typically costs £18,000–£30,000 depending on roof size, material, and complexity. The average is around £22,000. Ridge replacement alone costs £2,500–£5,000. Water reed is the most durable material (lasting 25–40 years) and typically costs more than long straw (15–25 years).
Is thatching a fire risk?
Modern thatched roofs can be fitted with fire barriers (typically a fire-resistant board beneath the thatch) and treated with fire retardant sprays. Building Regulations require adequate separation between chimneys and thatch. Specialist thatch insurance is essential. Properly maintained thatched roofs with modern fire precautions significantly reduce risk.