Alterations or extensions to thatched properties needing planning permission will require the input of an architect to design and draw the necessary plans. Unfortunately this is often done without discussing what is achieveable with a thatcher.

The result can be features being incorporated into  a  property that are detrimental to both the asthetic qualities of the thatch and its longevity.

The main problems arising from a thatcher not being  involved at the design stage are:

a) The pitch of the roof, and particularly windows, being too slack for thatch.

b) The thickness of the thatch not being taken into consideration.

The following rules apply:

a) Minimum roof pitch 45 degrees

b) ABSOLUTE minimum pitch for any feature 40 degrees

c) Allow for a thatch thickness of 12" (300mm)