What is the Best Thatched Roofing Material?

The history of thatched roofing goes back thousands of years, with techniques and materials as old as housing itself. For as long as people have made shelters for themselves, thatched roofing has been an obvious choice. After all, it’s one of the most readily available roofing materials—all you need is some tree leaves, and you’re good to go.

Modern thatched roofing is a little different from the traditional approach of ages past, but the look remains the same: rustic, natural, and charming. In order to achieve that unique look in a modern way, the best thatched roofing material may not always be the natural thatch used in our history. 

The Truth About Natural Thatch Roofs

Thatched roofing is a beautiful design option that instantly adds charm to any structure. While authenticity is important, natural thatch roofing materials composed of real plants and trees can be dangerous and comparatively fragile when compared to other modern roofing materials. Also, without proper maintenance, natural thatch can quickly lose its beauty, either from shedding or the beginning of rot. 

Modern roofs should be simple and easy, but natural thatched roofing materials are anything but easy or simple. They require constant vigilance and regular upkeep. On top of all that, it naturally attracts bugs, snakes, and rodents, putting your building at risk of a pest infestation. 

A Modern Solution: Engineered Thatch Roofs

Synthetic thatched roofing is a modern solution to the traditional look of thatched roofing. It looks exactly like natural thatch, but it doesn’t come with any of the cons. 

Endureed’s synthetic thatched roofing is made to last, with a guaranteed lifespan of 20 years. It’s also fire-retardant, insect-resistant, and incredibly low-maintenance. In fact, the only thing you need to do to care for your thatched roof is give it a rinse with a hose periodically!

What Is Synthetic Thatched Roofing Made Of?

Standing strong against the elements and 100% recyclable, Endureed’s thatched roofing materials are the best synthetic thatch solution for both longevity and appearance. Our engineered material is far more durable than natural fibers and completely fade-resistant, too. 

Endureed’s synthetic thatched roofing is made out of proprietary polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) blends. You might be familiar with PVC’s other uses in an enormous variety of products, like pipes and siding. It’s a strong, weather-resistant material that can withstand the elements without issue. 

HDPE is another incredibly tough substance that’s used in everything from bulletproof vests to cutting boards. Combined, these two materials make for an impossibly tough thatched roof that looks exactly like the real thing.

Answering Your Questions on Thatched Roofing Materials

Still trying to figure out the best thatched roofing material for you? Here are some frequently asked questions we hear about thatched roofing that may inform your decision. 

How Long Do Thatch Roofs Last?

Thatch roofs made of natural materials can last for years, as long as you’re willing to replace the material on a very regular basis, treat it with flame-resistant chemicals, coat it in pesticides, and also regularly replace those chemicals. However, climate makes a big difference for natural materials, and humid areas may only see a 5–10 year lifespan before the entire roof needs to be replaced. 

In contrast, synthetic thatched roofs will last decades with very little maintenance and upkeep. We believe so strongly in the durability of our roofs that Endureed’s thatched roofing materials have an industry-leading warranty to back it up, so you can be sure your thatched roof is in good hands.

What Is Thatch for a Roof?

Traditionally, thatch for a roof is made of dried grasses, straw, and other plant materials. In other words, traditional thatch was made of whatever the builder could find in the area, provided it offered some protection from the elements. 

Modern natural thatch made of natural fiber might be a little higher quality than those ancient roofs, but it comes with a lot of problems. Not least of those problems is how easily the roof can catch fire.

Are Thatched Roofs Warm?

The modern idea of the thatched roof is traditionally associated with warm weather. This makes sense, as they’re still in use in hot climates like Africa and the Pacific Islands. They’re popular in these areas because they offer good ventilation and can help keep a structure cool. That said, that’s more a function of the style of the roof than the thatch material itself.

Since thatched roofing was (and, in some cases, still is) also used in colder places like England and the Netherlands, it is also very good at keeping a building warm. Synthetic thatch is also a great solution for colder areas. Snow isn’t a problem for Endureed thatch, as you can see in this photo from the Nashville Zoo.

Do Thatched Roofs Get Moldy?

Mold can grow on thatched roofs made of natural materials, but it’s not an issue you have to worry about with synthetic thatch. Endureed’s thatched roofing is mold-resistant, so you don’t have to take any special measures to keep it free of mold and mildew.

Experience the Natural Beauty of Thatch with Our Engineered Solution.

In conclusion, thatched roofs are a popular roofing style that can be made with either natural or synthetic materials. While beautiful, natural thatch doesn’t last long and comes with a number of problems, such as fire, pests, and frequent maintenance. Synthetic thatch, like Endureed’s, will last much longer than natural, is extremely fire-retardant, weather-resistant, and won’t fade in the sun—all while giving the beautiful appearance of traditional methods. 

Ready to find the best synthetic thatch material for you and your project? Check out our wide variety of products and find a style that meets your needs!