After a lot of deliberations and planning, you might have decided to construct a thatch that  makes a beautiful, captivating appearance- at the same time rustic and groomed, gives your construction a relaxed and elegant appearance. A natural thatch roof adds a lot of charm to a living or outdoor space, perhaps because of its completely distinct appearance. It’s as though observers are transported to a balmy, tropical getaway without having to pay for airfare!

Natural thatch is extremely weather-resistant. It’s also a fantastic natural insulator, keeping your home at a pleasant temperature in both hot and cold weather. It is also a sustainable resource as palm leaves can be harvested without damaging the palm trees. The cultivation and harvesting of natural palm and reeds demand relatively fewer resources and time, making the production of natural thatch a highly viable industry. Replacing natural thatch products is also eco-friendly.

Let’s help you install your thatch roof efficiently.

Some Instructions and Tips before you start

Most types of thatch can be fixed to an open framework or a solid roofing structure. If the type you are using requires a solid structure, you could put a sub-surface of plywood into your structure before beginning. Clean the surface of any debris and make it suitable for stapling or nailing

Gather some tools and make sure they are in perfect condition before you begin

1. To secure the thatch to the roofing framework, use a manual or pneumatic staple gun, or a hammer and nails. 
2. 1/2′′ nails or half-inch staples
3. To cut thatch runners to the proper size and reduce overhang, use a razor knife or a pair of sharp scissors.
4. Using a measuring tape, decide where the thatch should be applied for total coverage.
5. To mark the appropriate measurements, use a permanent marker in a color that will be visible on the roofing surface.
6. Gather quality safety equipment. Gloves, eye protection, hard hats. 

Also, consider these tips for a smooth process. 

• other natural thatch kinds, which you should rinse off to avoid staining floors or other places affected by runoff. This isn’t a required step, although it can be useful. Before putting your roof on, give your thatch a good soaking with a garden hose and let it dry.
• Sort your measurements: Multiply the total square footage of the area to be covered by the length of each panel in feet when ordering thatch. If you want to add a second layer of thatch for more covering, multiply the result by two. For overlapping and overhang, add 10 to 15% extra to the total. This figure represents the total number of panels required for your project.
• Always select a natural base: Unlike synthetic thatch, natural thatch does not necessarily need the use of robust, solid planks beneath it to work. Natural thatch can be installed on a simple framed open building and yet give adequate protection. But be mindful of the possibility of drooping.  

Don’t forget to protect yourself from unnecessary scratches while installing thatch. Wear long sleeves, pants, and gloves. 

How to install a Palm Thatch

1. Measure: To begin, mark the places on your roofing composition where you want the thatch to be applied.
2. Cut: Now, according to the measurements you have made, cut the thatch runner into even parts using a razor knife or sharp scissors. Starting at the knots on one edge of the roll and working your way down between knots, cut the thatch.
3. Start at the bottom: Begin putting the thatch from the roof’s lowest border and work your way up in a horizontal row. Attach the thatch to the roof with a hammer or staple gun, making careful to put it with the rough, shaggy side facing up and the woven, knotted side facing down.
4. Intersect: For full, natural-looking covering, leave a 12- to 16-inch overhang and place your thatch at 12 to 15 inches on center
5. Add another Layer: Consider adding a second layer of thatch for a more complete, fuller appearance. The second layer of thatch will improve the water-resistant characteristics of your roof while also increasing the look of your structure.
6. Work up to the ridge: Apply thatch in horizontal rows until you reach the ridgeline of your roof. Cut smaller lengths of thatch to cover the ridge and hips of the roof once you’ve finished the foundation layer.
7. Final Touches: Trim the bottom of the overhang with scissors to give it a more completed, polished appearance.

Mexican Palm Thatch is installed following these steps. But you don’t need to worry too much about specificity. The general rule of thumb in installing thatch roofs are: 1) Measure the structure, 2) Start at the bottom, 3) Double the layers and Overlap in the central part of the structure. 

The Tahitian palm thatch or Brazillian thatch which is mainly used for gazebos, umbrellas, huts requires overlapping the panels 20 inches on the center. The African Reed Thatch, known for its rich color and polished structure, also used in gazebos needs to be overlapped 14 inches on the center.