Why Choose RV Miller for Your Thatch Roof Repairs in Dorset?
Established in 1966 by Rod Miller, RV Miller has been serving the local community for nearly 60 years. Today, the business is run by Rod’s stepson, John Tozer, after he joined the company back in 1994. John runs the business true to the values set forth by Rod, ensuring a sense of continuity of lifelong customers. Under his guidance, our team of thatchers deliver impeccable service, underpinned by traditional values enhanced with modern techniques, tools, and equipment.
Both Rod and John are proud members of the National Society of Master Thatchers. Membership of the NSMT is not for everyone and demonstrates that a company has attained a certain standard. They are also proud members of the Dorset Master Thatchers Association, which is, similarly, a hallmark of quality. Whatever ever service you require, whether you want a new thatched roof installed, ridging replaced, or your current thatching fixing up, you can count on RV Miller.
How Often Should a Thatched Roof be Replaced?
This is a somewhat complicated question to answer as there are factors that apply here. First, it’s worth noting that the answer changes dramatically depending on whether you’re referring to a roof made from water reed or one made using wheat reed. Wheat reed is a lightweight material that’s less hard-wearing; you’ll be looking to replace such a roof every 15 or so years (up to 25 years with regular maintenance).
Conversely, water reed can last for around 25 years (up to 45 years with regular maintenance). Note that whichever material you choose, the ridging will need replacing every ten or so years.
The situation is somewhat complicated by other factors, such as:
- The Skill Level of the Original Thatcher
- Quality of the Materials Used
- Pitch of the Roof (slacker roofs wear more quickly)
- The Aspect of the Roof (shaded roofs are more prone to damp-related issues)
If your thatched roof was originally installed by our thatching specialists, you’d likely get the full 15-years (wheat) or 25-years (water) of service. And if you let us maintain your roof, you’ll likely get the maximum lifespan from both options. For roofs installed by any other thatcher, results may vary, but we’ll be able to give you a rough idea of how much life your thatching has left in it.