Frequently Asked Questions

Q : How do you get into working as a Thatcher ?
A : There are no courses available for thatching.
The accepted route into the trade is via an apprenticeship with a master
man. Your first port of call would be to contact local thatchers, in order 
to see whether any vacancy might exist.
Offering one's services, free of charge, for a few days, would give an idea
of what the work entailed & whether it was as anticipated.

Q : The North facing aspect of my thatched roof has a significant amount of 
moss on it, which has sprung into life again with the recent rain.
Can you advise me on the best/easiest way to get rid of it ?
A : Moss has become much more prevalent in the last few years. We are thinking
that this is due to the atmosphere being cleaner - less Sulphates coming
down with the rain. To my knowledge, there is no fungicide. Some thatchers
will use a copper strip, or wire, on the ridge, which acts as a deterrent.
The only real solution is to physically remove it, this of course will also
remove a certain amount of thatch, i.e. lifespan. However, the pores will remain 
& within a few years, it will have returned.
I would recommend that you contact a local member, click on the link that 
says 'members' - who will then be able to come out & advise. 
It is essential that the material is allowed to dry out. Have nearby  trees 
been allowed to grow up, in the vicinity ?

Q : Can you recommend a thatcher in xxxxx (fill in your County) ?
A : For regional contacts see www.ncmta.co.uk or contact the
Conservation Officer at your Local District Council.

Q : Does the Association offer a roof surveying service ?
A : Most  members would undertake this for you at no charge, should you own
the property. Should you be a prospective purchaser, there might be a nominal
charge.
The Assn offers a roof surveying service but this is normally only called
on where there is a possible dispute, in workmanship, of one of it's members.