New Forest Master Thatchers Ltd

New Forest Thatchers Hampshire Berkshire Dorset Wiltshire

Combed Wheat Reed - CWR can have a very rounded cottage shape, mainly due to the build up of old thatch layers. This material will be seen with either a flush ridge or an ornamental pattern ridge. The Thatch is completely covered by galvanised netting for protection from birds and vermin. The life expectancy is approx 20 years.
Water Reed - Can also be known as Norfolk reed. This is the hardest and most durable material. It has been known to last up to 40 years, 25 to 30 years being the more common. These roofs will need re-riding and dressing approx every 12 years. This material gives a sharp and hard appearance generally about 12” thick straight off the timbers. Only the ridge will be wired.
Long Straw - Long straw is the same material as combed wheat reed, cut in the same manner, but the difference being it is fed directly into the thrasher, without a comber on it and the ears and butts become mixed. Long straw produces a rounded shape to the roof. Easily distinguished by the exposed spar lines around the eaves and gables. Generally finished with a flush ridge and covered all over with galvanised netting.