If you’re thinking about installing a thatched roof, or looking at getting your current roof re-thatched, the potential cost of the project is going to be of the utmost concern. The question of how much will a thatched roof cost doesn’t necessarily have a straightforward answer, as there are lots of different factors to consider.
There will always be two costs for this type of project – one for materials and the other for labour. For the purpose of simplicity, we will look at the total cost for both.
Thatched cottage owners are warned to do their research and choose a reputable thatching company to carry out the work. They should get written, itemised quotations and will need to take into account the previous work of the thatcher, rather than going straight for the cheapest quote.
In the case of re-thatching, it’s vitally important to make sure that the roof actually needs to be completely replaced. The best thing to do is to get a master thatcher to inspect the property.
They will get a complete picture of what needs doing and can fully itemise the projected cost based on an array of factors.
You should also bear in mind that if you live in a listed building, as many thatched cottages are, you may not be able to go free reign as there may be certain materials you have to use in a certain style.
How Much Does A Thatched Roof Cost In The UK?
A new thatched roof in the UK can cost anywhere from around £5,000 all the way up to about £30,000. The reason for this huge variation in thatch roofing prices is that the following factors have to be looked at:
- The types of materials used
- The size of the roof
- If you want windows in the roof, and how many
- The length and design of the ridge
- The cost of applying a fire retardant
- The price to hire scaffolding (for around 4-6 weeks)
Cost of Materials
Of the three main thatching materials, water reed is the most expensive. This is due to high demand for it, a low supply grown in the UK and the costs of importing it from countries such as Hungary or the Ukraine.
Water reed is more sought after than its less expensive counterpart, wheat reed, because it can last up to 60 years.
Long straw doesn’t last as long as the two reed varieties, but it is a lot more affordable, being around 40% cheaper on average.
The Roof Size
When creating a quote, thatchers will look at the size of the roof per square. The size of a thatcher’s square is 10 x 10 feet (100 ft²) or 3 x 3 metres (9 m²).
They work out the cost of the materials and labour for thatching one square, then multiply this by the total squares in the roof. If the client needs windows adding into the project, this is an additional cost.
The Ridge
The ridge is a feature that needs replacing more often than the rest of the roof – around every 10-15 years. It’s the decorative bit that runs along the very top of the thatch, and property owners can choose how simple or ornate they want the design to be.
A more elaborate design will incur a greater cost.
Cost of Fire Retardant Spray
It’s always a sensible move to follow fire safety advice. The guidelines for thatched roofs state that they should be sprayed with a certified fire retardant product every 5-7 years.
This should not only be factored into the cost of a new roof or re-thatch but should also be budgeted for on a regular basis. Your insurance may also stipulate it.
Cost of Scaffolding
This is essential to bear in mind, as it’s needed for every thatched roof installation.
Scaffolding will either be included in the thatcher’s quote or organised by the property owner. The cost for scaffolding is around £1,000 per week.
With a thatched roof project usually taking around 4-6 weeks to complete, this is a significant cost that needs to be taken into account.
Roof Thatcher Cost
The roof thatcher cost can range from around £60 to £100 ($40 – $100 in the US) per square meter or more. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that these rates can differ based on the factors mentioned above.
To get a precise labor cost, you’re best off consult with multiple thatching specialists in your area and request detailed quotes.
This approach will provide you with a clearer understanding of the labor costs involved in installing a thatched roof for your specific project and help you make an informed decision based on your budget and preferences.
What Is The Average Cost Of A Thatched Roof?
According to Rightmove.co.uk, the average thatch roof cost “square” is around £700. A large roof, containing windows, will cost in the region of £30,000.
For a small roof (with an area of 900 m²), the average installation cost would be about £6,500.
As previously mentioned, the ridge needs to be replaced more often than the rest of the roof. The cost of this is usually around £85 per metre.
Thatched cottage owners shouldn’t forget that there are other costs associated with owning this type of property. On average, the annual maintenance and repair bill comes to around £1,000.
How Much Does a Thatched Roof Cost to Replace?
In the UK, the cost of replacing a thatched roof can vary depending on several factors such as the size and complexity of the roof, the materials used, and labour costs.
On average, the cost of replacing a thatched roof ranges from $100 to $200 per square meter in the United States, or £60 to £100 per square meter in the United Kingdom. This cost typically includes removing the old thatch, preparing the roof structure, and installing the new thatch.
Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and the actual cost can vary depending on the specific details of your project. More intricate designs, higher-grade materials, and the experience level of the thatcher can also influence the overall cost of replacing a thatched roof.
Cost of Thatched Roof
In conclusion, thatched roofs have been a timeless and charming architectural feature for centuries, boasting a unique aesthetic appeal, strong insulation properties, and a low carbon footprint.
While the initial cost of installing a thatched roof may be higher than that of conventional roofing materials, the long-term benefits are significant, especially considering the roof’s durability and low maintenance requirements.
The cost of a thatched roof can vary greatly depending on factors such as the size of the property, the materials used, and the labor costs involved.
As such, it is essential for homeowners to conduct thorough research and obtain multiple quotes from reputable thatching specialists to ensure they receive the best value for their investment.
By doing so, they can take advantage of the considerable benefits that thatched roofs offer, from energy efficiency to their undeniable charm.
Ultimately, for those seeking an eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing roofing option, a thatched roof is an excellent choice.
While the initial investment may be substantial, the long-term advantages make it a worthwhile consideration for homeowners who appreciate the unique blend of tradition and sustainability that thatched roofs provide.
