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Can Thatched Roofs Handle Snow?

Whether you live in the remote snowy mountains or a small village hub in middle-England prone to only the occasional snowfall, you can count on thatched roofing to provide a safe and durable roofing solution.

The additional benefit? It comes with a timeless look for your place!

But can a thatched roof handle snow? A thatched roof is more than capable of handling snow due to its durable material and craftsmanship. Let’s dive into this in more detail.

heavy snowfall in thatched roof

Do Thatched Roofs Work in Snow?

One of the key benefits of thatched roofing is (provided it is well-maintained) that it is reliable and effective in all sorts of climates. 

Therefore, you don’t need to worry about whether your thatched roof can stand heavy snowfall, rainfall, or extreme winds. After all, synthetic thatch roofing products are designed for and tested in extreme conditions to ensure reliability and durability whatever the season. 

To better deal with snow, thatched roofs are often installed at an angle where they can handle the weight of heavy snowfall, making it easier to shed snow or allowing you to conveniently dust it off. 

If you have a natural thatched roof, routine maintenance against vermin infestation, leaks due to rainfall or melting snow, deterioration of wire netting, and other wear and tear is advisable to ensure optimal performance. 

These regular maintenance measures can provide your thatched roof with much-needed winter-proofing to ensure your peace of mind throughout the coldest of winters.

Can thatched roof handle snow

Thatched Roofs and Insulation

Did you know thatch is a natural insulator and its insulating properties are more effective than any other roofing solution?

Not only does thatched roofing give your house or business a natural and rustic look, but it also provides insulation, which makes your place feel warmer in winter and cooler in summer. 

It does this by creating air pockets to trap heat within the structure of your thatched roof. 

The degree of insulation you get will depend on the condition, material, and thickness of the thatch. This is why a well-maintained thatch that is not prone to leaks and damage can further improve insulation effectiveness. 

Moreover, thatched roof insulation is also one of the most environmentally friendly and cost-effective ways of reducing energy use. 

Effect of Snow on Thatched Roofs 

Although thatched roofs are more than capable of handling snow, over time weather conditions can cause some wear and tear and other sorts of damage to your roof.

Just as with any other kind of roofing, a routine inspection and maintenance of your thatched roof can increase its durability, longevity, as well as its insulation efficiency. 

You can also check up on your thatched roof yourself and tend to it by performing minor tweaks where possible. However, it is preferable to have a professional inspection every once in a while, especially if your thatched roof involves wire netting.

This is usually a prerequisite of your insurance provider too.

A deteriorating wire netting can allow vermin and birds to make a home in your thatched roof which can lead to more damage when the snow comes.

This is why a professional can ensure the best possible maintenance to offset any potential hazards or damage that snow and winter can cause to your roofing. 

thatched roof with snow

Conclusion

Thatched roofs are more than capable of handling snow as long as the roof is well-maintained.