Typically fleas, mosquito, flies, moths, beetles and small mite type bugs make their homes in thatch roofs and if not cleaned regularly, can cause discomfort by falling out of the roof onto beds and floors. The resulting infestation attracts spiders, geckos and scorpions, which in turn may attract rodents, bats, birds and snakes.
Full Answer
Do spiders live in a thatch roof?
Roofs, especially those with straw (and ridges) are often netted to deter them but they can also enter from wall spaces, via attics etc. Insects such as spiders live in thatch and are only a pest if you are scared of them.
Are thatched roofs bad for your roof?
Pine martins: can also do an enormous amount of damage to a roof very quickly burrowing through the roof and pushing out handfuls of material. Insects: Thatched roofs also can become a haven for all sorts of unwelcome insects including Cluster flies and Wasps. Insects such as spiders live in thatch and are only a pest if you are scared of them.
Why does my thatch roof attract so many bugs?
THATCH ROOF PESTS. Usually the cycle starts as insects and bugs seek out a cool place to nest away from the heat outside. Typically fleas, mosquito, flies, moths, beetles and small mite type bugs make their homes in thatch roofs and if not cleaned regularly, can cause discomfort by falling out of the roof onto beds and floors.
What are thatch pests?
Thatch pests are animals, birds and insects. We know about birds attacking roofs, for example magpies, jays and jackdaws pulling out straws. How many times have we heard someone say – why my roof and not the one next door, they were both thatched at a similar time?
What are the disadvantages of a thatched roof?
DisadvantagesExpense. Installing a thatched roof is more labour intensive than other roofing methods, so it is generally more expensive.Fire hazard. Without the proper precautions, thatched roofs can be a fire hazard. ... Decay. ... Maintenance is required. ... Higher insurance costs. ... Overhanging trees. ... Animals can cause damage.
Do thatched roofs attract bugs?
The wild beasts of the fields think so too! Thatch roofs attract all sorts of animals all year round; they would also like to make these atmospheric spaces their home. Common thatch pests may include birds, rats, insects and squirrels.
Why do people not like thatched roofs?
Thatch Fires What most people think with the thought of a thatched property is the fire risk. However, a fire is no more likely to start in a thatched property than a regular property, it is because of the materials used to thatch a roof means a fire will spread quickly and the damage done is greater and costly.
Is a thatched roof any good?
Overall, thatch is a great building material that is sure to add a unique look to any home or business. It keeps out rainwater, can stand up to heavy winds, can last up to 60 years with proper care and maintenance, and give your building a timeless look that turns heads.
Is buying a thatched property a good idea?
Thatched properties come with a slightly higher cost of insurance due to a higher fire risk, they also have a more expensive rebuild value than conventional houses because they've been built using specific materials by specialists, there are only 800 master thatchers in the country after all!
Do rats live in thatch?
The important thing is that you don't want rats and mice or even squirrels in your thatched roof. They can do a lot a damage to the thatch and can cause problems, loosening fixings and chewing material. It may well take some time to get rid of the vermin before the repairs can be carried out.
How often do you need to change a thatched roof?
Contrary to popular opinion, a thatched roof lifespan may be as long as that of a standard roof. According to Heart of England Thatchers, they can last between 15 and 40 years if properly maintained. The ridge may need to be replaced more frequently; between 10 and 15 years.
Can you walk on a thatched roof?
If it is damp it will also increase the likelihood of moss and algae growth which in turn keeps the roof wet. Do not allow other trades to damage the roof either with ladders or by walking on the thatch.
What are the benefits of having thatched roof?
Pros of Thatched RoofsNovelty value. There are an estimated 35,000 thatched properties in England, of which 24,000 are listed. ... Durability. Thatch is incredibly durable with some thatching material able to last up to 65 years. ... Insulation. ... Sustainability. ... Lightweight. ... Installation costs. ... Annual inspections. ... Maintenance.More items...
Do mice live in thatched roofs?
Mice and Rats They are persistent, destructive and if they have access to food sources and water, rats in thatched roofs are not easy to deal with. They will not come out, certainly not in winter. But if there is no water supply, they will attempt to get in and out of the thatch to find one.
Do thatched roofs get moldy?
Natural thatch, if done properly can resist it, but over time, many do develop thatch roof mold. This is so unfortunate because thatch roofing is inherently durable and beautiful.
Is it more expensive to insure a thatched house?
Are thatched roofs more expensive to insure? Expect to pay more for your buildings or contents insurance as a thatched roof is a bigger fire risk than a slate roof. They also have a more expensive rebuild value than conventional houses because they've been built using specific materials by specialists.
Do you get rats in thatched roofs?
Mice and Rats They are persistent, destructive and if they have access to food sources and water, rats in thatched roofs are not easy to deal with. They will not come out, certainly not in winter. But if there is no water supply, they will attempt to get in and out of the thatch to find one.
How do you clean a thatched roof?
Cleaning a Thatched Roof: A thatched roof has to be cleaned by hand. With help of different types of rakes the roof is freed from leaves, fir needles and moss. The easiest way to get rid of moss is to wait for a dry spell. The reason is that under dry weather conditions the moss loosens its grip on the reed.
Why do thatched roofs have animals on them?
West Country thatchers have been making straw figures for centuries, a tradition that can be traced back to the dollies placed on hayricks. These were used to identify the owner and deter foraging birds – and at one time were also intended to ward off evil spirits and witches.
Are thatched roofs expensive to maintain?
Are there any maintenance costs with thatched roofs? Yes, you are likely to need to spend money annually to maintain your thatched roof. It's recommended to have an experienced thatcher check over your roof and make small repairs roughly once a year.
What is a thatch roof?
A Thatch roof is a warm and dry place for pests to live and if it is a straw roof, there will almost certainly be some grain left in it, which will provide a food source for rodents. Thatched properties that are left empty or only used for several months of the year tend to suffer more from animal pests who enjoy the peace. In saying this, you can still find pests in your roof at any time of the year.
What birds build nests on wheat straw ridges?
A wheat straw ridge is quite attractive to nest building birds, and they will pull straw from the roof to make their nests. With the most common of these being sparrows, which were often referred to in the past as “thatch birds”.
Why do bugs live in thatch roofs?
Where a dwelling is left unattended for extended periods, this problem is exacerbated due to the lack of regular cleaning. Usually the cycle starts as insects and bugs seek out a cool place to nest away from the heat outside. Typically fleas, mosquito, flies, moths, beetles and small mite type bugs make their homes in thatch roofs ...
What bugs are on the roof of a house?
Typically fleas, mosquito, flies, moths, beetles and small mite type bugs make their homes in thatch roofs and if not cleaned regularly, can cause discomfort by falling out of the roof onto beds and floors.
What are the pests that live on a thatched roof?
Book lice, mites, cockroaches and flies have also been associated with thatched roofs but these can also be attributed to disturbance of property and other factors but they still are pests which have had to be dealt with. Magpie. Rat. Rat Damage to a roof.
What are thatch pests?
Thatch pests are animals, birds and insects. We know about birds attacking roofs, for example magpies, jays and jackdaws pulling out straws.
What pests can be removed from a roof?
Vermin such as rats and squirrels, should be removed as soon as possible as they can devastate a roof. It is important to understand how they got into the thatch so that they can be best dealt with. Pest control techniques include bait boxes, poison.
Can birds make nests in chimneys?
For whatever reason, it can make a really mess. Don’t forget that birds like making nests in chimneys. This can be a problem, especially if a chimney which has been used in the winter has been left in the spring, then there is a cold snap, fire is lit and then there is a chimney fire.
Can squirrels be in thatch?
Squirrels can be a nuisance in thatch – entering via cables close to roofs and being very agile. Rats and mice are another animal which we would definitely want to deter. They can devastate a roof so early dispatch is highly recommended.
Pest prevention in thatched roofs
As with everything else to do with looking after property, prevention is always preferable and far less costly than the subsequent cure, and that applies to pests too. Getting rid of these unwelcome guests will often prove far more costly than taking measures to keep them out in the first place.
Wire protection
After establishing a regular maintenance and inspection schedule for your thatched roof, your next and possibly most effective line of defence against pests is a fine metal-based mesh. This needs to be made from materials that are impervious to corrosion and the damaging effects of the sun, wind, and rain.
Keeping your thatched roof clear of debris and free of moss
Despite thatched roof netting being manufactured from water and corrosion resistant materials, it could still be susceptible to damage if continuously exposed to water.
Dealing with a worst case scenario
In the event of unwelcome guests finding their way into your thatched roof and even possibly damaging it, your insurance broker will be able to advise you. From approved pest removal methods to insurance authorised repairers, it is important that any work carried out to your thatched roof meets industry standards.
Working with your insurance broker
Apart from keeping a watchful eye on the condition of your thatched roofs pest repellent system, those regular inspections may be essential to maintaining your insurance cover too.
