Business Details
16 Years
experience
Expert Thatching Services in Oxfordshire
Established in 2010, GB Thatcher brings over two decades of expertise in traditional roof thatching to homeowners across Oxfordshire and the West Midlands. Our founder, Grant Batchelor, began his journey as an apprentice in 1998, honing his craft with an award-winning local company before founding his own business. As a proud member of the National Society of Master Thatchers, we adhere to the highest industry standards, combining time-honoured techniques with modern best practices. Our team of two seasoned professionals and two apprentices delivers complete thatch installations, re-ridging, and maintenance services, prioritising quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction. We specialise in preserving the historical integrity of thatched properties while ensuring they meet contemporary durability and safety requirements.Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our use of premium materials like combed wheat straw and water reed, sourced responsibly to maintain environmental sustainability. We offer free, no-obligation surveys and quotes, ensuring clients receive tailored solutions that balance cost-effectiveness with long-term value. Our deep understanding of local building styles allows us to seamlessly integrate new thatch into historic and rural settings, safeguarding the cultural heritage of each property. With a focus on education and prevention, we provide expert advice on chimney care, fire safety, and maintenance to extend the lifespan of thatched roofs. Our dedication to ethical practices, fair wages, and comprehensive insurance underscores our reputation as a trusted, authoritative leader in the thatching industry.
Services
Complete Thatch
Re-ridging
Patching
Thatch Maintenance
Roof Repairs
Thatch Removal
Roof Replacement
Commercial Thatching
Material Supply
Free Surveys
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We are members of the National Society of Master Thatchers, guaranteeing quality and adherence to industry standards.
- Over 20 years of combined experience in traditional roof thatching techniques.
- We use premium, sustainably sourced materials like combed wheat straw and water reed.
- Our team includes two professional thatchers and two apprentices trained in traditional methods.
- We offer free, no-obligation roof surveys and transparent pricing.
Associations and certifications
- National Society of Master Thatchers
What people say
Delighted with our new thatch
Unrivalled traditional services
Expert thatching services
Beautiful art of traditional thatching
Local Master Thatcher
Services
Complete Thatch
Our complete thatch service involves stripping old materials to create a durable base coat, using premium combed wheat straw or water reed. We ensure proper waterproofing with felt and sheeting while maintaining historical accuracy. This service extends roof longevity up to 25-40 years, depending on material choice and environmental factors.
Re-ridging
Re-ridging replaces worn ridge sections every 10-15 years using pliable wheat straw or sedge grass. This prevents water ingress while preserving decorative patterns like scallops or points. The process maintains structural integrity without compromising aesthetic authenticity.
Thatch Maintenance
Regular maintenance includes moss removal, gully checks, and minor repairs to extend roof lifespan. We recommend biennial inspections to address issues early, preventing costly interventions while maintaining optimal performance and appearance.
Thatch Removal
We thoroughly remove multi-layered thatch buildup to reduce structural strain and fire risks. This process involves stripping to rafters for reed roofs or creating a firm 10-inch base coat for straw roofs, ensuring proper foundation for new installations.
Free Surveys
Our complimentary surveys evaluate roof condition, material quality, and structural requirements. We provide detailed recommendations and cost estimates, ensuring informed decisions without obligation or pressure.
People
Grant Batchelor
Master Thatcher
With over 20 years of experience, Grant Batchelor founded his business in 2010 after an apprenticeship and 11 years with an award-winning thatching company. He leads a team of two professionals and two apprentices, specialising in traditional methods while maintaining NSMT standards.
Questions
What factors affect the cost of a thatched roof?
Cost depends on roof size, material choice (straw/reed), access difficulty, scaffolding needs, and decorative features. A site survey is required for accurate pricing.
How often does a thatched roof need replacing?
Water reed lasts 25-40 years; combed wheat straw lasts 20-25 years. Regular maintenance can extend lifespan, while multi-layered thatch reduces longevity.
Do you use local materials?
Our straw is sourced from Devon. While we prefer Norfolk reed, European imports are often necessary due to supply shortages.
Can I convert my thatched roof to tiles?
Conversion is rarely permitted for listed properties or conservation areas. Planning permission would be required, with exceptions only for fire-damaged structures.
How do you ensure fire safety?
We follow NSMT guidelines for chimney clearance, install fire-retardant barriers, and recommend smoke detectors. Proper thatch maintenance also reduces fire risks.
What areas do you cover?
We serve Oxfordshire, Northamptonshire, Warwickshire, Buckinghamshire, Gloucestershire, and Worcestershire, with expertise in local building styles and conservation requirements.
Reviews (1)
Lee Hazelwood-Pike
Apr 12, 2017
Report
I love this look on a dwelling, I think I was born too late. I think thatched roofs and wooden beams, inglenook fireplaces are cosy and charming. I don't find the minimalist look in the least bit attractive.
