Marc
Wednesday, 01 January 2003, 18:01
I may build an oceanfront home along the Garden route. If so my wife would like to seriously consider a thatched roof on it.
Now I know this is not the norm. I also am aware of how it does not last anywhere near as long as other roofs. There is also the fire hazard. Yet...I would like to hear other people's comments, good, bad or what-have-you on how a thatched roof home is regarded there in South Africa, particularly along the Gardenroute.
In England, a thatched roof house is viewed as a "rich man's" folly. An expensive indulgence. Higher insurance, yet quaint charm. My feeling is that in South Africa where it is far more common, that in some ways it has the reverse appeal. Is this correct?
The house will be a upmarket one. I don't want just a brick faced thatched thing, but possibly a design that breaks the traditional setting. Lots of glass to open itself up to the vistas, yet with that more natural material feeling based upon thatching material and the nice open vaulted ceilings.
I am interested in hearing what various people's opinions are about thatching, its faults, its advantages, etc. Anybody have direct experience living with thatch?
Thanks
Now I know this is not the norm. I also am aware of how it does not last anywhere near as long as other roofs. There is also the fire hazard. Yet...I would like to hear other people's comments, good, bad or what-have-you on how a thatched roof home is regarded there in South Africa, particularly along the Gardenroute.
In England, a thatched roof house is viewed as a "rich man's" folly. An expensive indulgence. Higher insurance, yet quaint charm. My feeling is that in South Africa where it is far more common, that in some ways it has the reverse appeal. Is this correct?
The house will be a upmarket one. I don't want just a brick faced thatched thing, but possibly a design that breaks the traditional setting. Lots of glass to open itself up to the vistas, yet with that more natural material feeling based upon thatching material and the nice open vaulted ceilings.
I am interested in hearing what various people's opinions are about thatching, its faults, its advantages, etc. Anybody have direct experience living with thatch?
Thanks