Did you know that we have thatched houses in Newhall? We spent some time chatting with Barry Biggs, who is a Master Thatcher and started work as an apprentice in the Thatching Industry in 1982!

He’s the principal owner of Cotswold and Chiltern Master Thatchers, which was formed in 2001 and is the original thatcher and currently working to repair one of the unique thatched roofs on a home in Allis Mews, Newhall.

We asked, what the issues were with the roof and why the repairs are needed? Barry replied, ‘Water reed thatch can be susceptible to rot and decay when it is affected by pest infestations, primarily due to the disruption of the thatch’s natural moisture regulation and structure. In the case of this roof, pest damage had led to the water reed thatch becoming more porous, decaying and allowing rainwater to penetrate more easily. It has also resulted in birds and squirrels burrowing in the thatch to nest and store food.’

This roof was in need of repair, so Barry and his team have carried out an inspection to check the extent of the damage. As part of this process, they’ve identified where pests have entered and the areas of thatch that need repair.

They then have then ensured that all birds and squirrels have been removed from the roof to prevent further damage. They have then removed the damaged thatch and replaced it with new thatch material, making sure to match the thatch type and colour as closely as possible.

To prevent future intrusion, they are installing bird netting (a chicken wire material) and have made a recommendation that any nearby trees are cut back to ensure that squirrels and pests cannot access easily.

Barry informed us that thatched roofs require regular maintenance and care to ensure their longevity. This includes brushing, re-ridging, and re-thatching, which are typical tasks that help keep the roof in tip-top condition.

If  you would like to know more about the work of the Cotswold & Chiltern Master Thatchers, click: http://www.masterthatchers.biz.