Thatching services in Dorset
and surrounding areas

Thank you for considering Howard Empson Thatching in Dorset for your thatching services. We are a long-standing company offering quality thatching work to domestic and commercial clients across the region. You can contact us for installing porches, re-thatching services and re-ridging services. Our prices are affordable and we never compromise on quality. If you want to know more about thatching, read the FAQ section here.
Address:  2 Northfield Road 
                Ringwood
                 BH24 1LU
  • What is a thatch?

    Thatching in the UK refers to the covering of a roof with material such as reed or straw whichever is easily available.  

  • How does a thatched roof work?

    Because of the steep pitch and compactness, water runs off the roof by dropping on one end of a reed stem to another.

  • How thick should a thatch be?

    A layer of straw or new water reed should be generally 300-450mm thick.

  • For how long does a thatched roof look brand new?

    Around 2 years after which the colour changes to charcoal grey.

  • How often does a thatched roof require maintenance?

    We recommend re-ridging, which is every 8-15 years,  and the entire roof can be dressed.  The roof can also be cleaned during this time. 

  • Can I install chimneys?

    Yes, of course, give that the chimney height should be well above the highest point of the thatch. 

  • What type of roof can be thatched?

    Any type of roof can be thatched given that it's steep enough.  Generally it should be at an angle of 45 degrees or more.

  • Does a thatched roof require lead work?

    As there are no box gutters and gullies, lead work is required only on the surface of the thatch.

  • Do thatchers work in the winter?

    Yes, we do.  We work throughout the year.

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