Thatched Roof Fire Risk

Of the 50 000 to 60 000 thatched properties in the united kingdom approximately 24 000 are listed.

Thatched roof fire risk.

This chimney appeared in the page on listing rising through many layers of thatch. However it is clear that not all owners are aware of the risks they are taking. Statistically homes with thatched roofs are no more likely to catch fire than those with conventional roofs however if they do the results are often rapid and spectacular. Remember thatch is not more likely to catch fire than other properties it is just harder to put out and makes more mess if it does.

Property owners with thatched roofs should therefore take certain precautions to ensure the safety of their buildings. The biggest risk lies in the fireplace. As pretty as a thatched cottage is unfortunately if a fire takes hold in a property with a thatched roof the result can be more damaging than in a conventional property. Once a fire starts in a thatched structure that structure is more likely to suffer damage directly related to roofing materials.

Thatch fire prevention is the best course of action. The most significant disadvantage is the fact that thatch is combustible. The risk of thatch fires in old and new properties can be greatly reduced by taking sensible precautions and utilising new specialist products as part of a way forward. The risk of fire in thatched roofs is an issue that owners and others ignore at their peril.

Understand the fire risks protection required for your thatched roof insurance. If the causes are properly understood and the appropriate measures taken the risk of one occurring is low. The most common cause of a thatch fire is when the chimney catches fire and leaks into the thatch roof often through poorly maintained brickwork as it passes through the thatch near the ridge.