Exploring the magic of English thatched roof cottages.
English cottages make most of us swoon, but besides being the epitome of the magical cottage-core lifestyle, there’s so much more to know. Many English cottages have a thatched roof. So, what is a thatched roof made of anyway?
Thatch roofing is a traditional roofing method using straw. It originated with indigenous peoples such as the Maya and Aztecs but is now associated with the charming cottages scattered throughout the United Kingdom. Before the late 1800s, thatch was the only common material in the U.K. that could be used for roofing. This meant most homes in the country, especially in agricultural areas, were thatched roof cottages.
Most thatched roofs are made from one of three main materials: water reed, long straw or combed wheat reed.
The way the thatch is laid out creates a “stitching” type of pattern. In short, a layer of thatch is held in place by a “fixing.” Then, more layers are added on top and are driven through the layers beneath. Depending on the method of thatching used and the material it’s attached to, fixings could be wire, steel bars or spikes.
While these unique roofs do require maintenance, a quality thatched roof in a dry environment should withstand weather for several decades.
The secret to their waterproofness lies in the angle of the roof: Because the roof is positioned at a 45- to 55-degree angle, when rain hits the roof, it runs across the surface quickly enough to avoid absorption into the thatch. Additionally, the water drips from one piece of thatch to the next, which keeps the water flowing in small amounts all the way down the roof to further prevent absorption.
A natural insulator, thatch functions well in both cold and warm climates.
Window Terms to Know
- Eyebrow window: An eyebrow window features a flat, circular cutout of the thatch that sits just above the windowpane.
- Dormer window: For dormer windows, the roof is more angular and square and tends to protrude out more from the house. This also creates more surface area for the roof to cover.
- Velux window: Velux windows are stylistic and look like skylights. They’re fitted into a box that’s cut directly into the thatch and sit flush to the exterior of the thatched roof.
Sources/References
For more information about thatched roofs, check out the following websites:
- https://thatchinginfo.com/beginners-guide
- https://www.thatchadvicecentre.co.uk
- https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk
Did You Know
Thatched roof cottages typically have three types of windows, which are defined not by the windows, themselves, but by the roof. The shape of the roof surrounding the windows and the way the windows are installed into the roof or home determines its look.
For more English cottage inspiration, read on for The Perfect Imperfections of English Country Style. Of course, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest to get your daily dose of cottage inspiration!
