Thatched and Reed Roof Installation

Thatched and reed roof installation means laying natural reed bundles over a supporting frame in an even pattern and fixing them securely, for villas, hotels, restaurants, beach facilities and garden structures. NSG Bamboo Center, based in Aydın, works across Turkey on both new builds and the renewal of worn roofs.

What is the difference between a hedgehog roof and a tiered thatched roof?

On a hedgehog roof the reed bundles are woven tight and dense, giving a thick, even surface without visible steps. On a tiered reed roof the bundles are laid in rows that form distinct steps. Fringed or Chinese grass is more often chosen for gazebos and pavilions where a rustic, tasselled look is wanted. The right option depends on your building style, budget and expectations, and is decided together during the site survey. In our range you can look at the Premium Reed Mat Roof, the Standard Reed Mat and the Rustic Reed Gazebo.

Which surfaces can it be installed on?

Thatched roofs can be installed over concrete, timber and steel frames. What matters is that the frame carries the load safely and that the roof pitch is chosen correctly. The steeper the pitch, the faster water runs off and the roof dries, and the longer it can last depending on conditions. For very low pitches other solutions are usually considered; the suitable pitch for your building is confirmed at the survey.

• New build: At the design stage, frame dimensions, pitch and overhangs are calculated for a thatched roof.
• Renewal: The load-bearing condition of the existing structure is checked first, and reinforcement is suggested if needed.
• Partial repair: Only damaged areas may be renewed, so the whole roof does not always need to come off.

How are the reed bundles fixed?

Bundles are placed from the bottom up, overlapping each other, and fastened to the frame with suitable fixings. The surface is then shaped by hand and the edge and ridge details are cleaned up. Water resistance of a densely woven roof depends largely on how tight the bundles are and on the pitch. Shade from large nearby trees can slow drying, so positioning is part of the planning.

Fire safety should not be overlooked on a thatched roof either. Since the behaviour of natural materials near heat and sparks is well known, the area around chimneys, lighting and heaters is planned together; protective treatments are assessed at the survey where needed. Reed also partly reduces heat and sound, giving a cool feel in summer and a warm one in winter, but it does not replace an insulation layer on its own.

Can an old roof be renewed?

Yes. Worn, mouldy or shedding surfaces are removed, the frame is checked and reinforced if needed, and the new covering is applied. For new buildings, the frame and pitch are planned from the design stage. Roof life varies with material quality, climate, workmanship and upkeep; for periodic checks you can use our Maintenance and Repair service. For the general assembly process see Installation Services, and for measuring and material choice see Consulting Services. For our work around Bodrum, Marmaris or Fethiye, visit our Muğla region page.

If you would like to choose the right roof type for your building, fill in the free site survey and quote form and our team will assess your space and explain the best solution.