Long Straw Thatching
The Distinctive Charm of Long Straw Thatching
Long straw at one stage was the most common form of thatch, but has in some parts of the country all but died out. Long straw is now predominantly seen in East Anglia and the East Midlands, with few thatcher’s now being trained in its use.
Long straw is grown from old varieties of wheat straw and once harvested, is ‘threshed’ to remove the grain. Long straw has a softer, more shaggy look and is normally easy to distinguish due to the decorative wood work which border the eaves and gables.
Long straw has a life span of 20-25 years on average, provided the roof is re-ridged between to 10-15 year point.
Sufficient thatch is removed to form a solid base coat, being around 4-12” thick, which is then secure enough to fix the new coat too.
Both flush and block cut ridges can be used, though what ridge style the roof currently has, will be the guide for what style of ridge will return.
The roof is then enclosed in wire netting to keep vermin from entering.
Preserving a Rare Craft with Timeless Character
Long Straw thatching, once the most widespread style in the UK, is now a specialised tradition seen mainly in East Anglia and the East Midlands. Known for its softer, more textured appearance and distinctive decorative detailing, it offers a roof life of around 20–25 years with regular ridge maintenance. Though fewer thatchers now practise this method, it remains a cherished craft. When applied, sufficient material is removed to form a solid base coat, and the new thatch is carefully fixed in place. The finished roof is fully netted to guard against vermin, combining heritage with lasting function.
Master Thatchers in Cambridgeshire covering Neighbouring Counties
Chris Dodson Thatching Services brings over 90 years of family expertise to traditional thatching. As a well-established, fourth-generation, award-winning Master Thatcher, we operate from central Cambridgeshire, providing expert services across Cambridgeshire, Rutland, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire, and Hertfordshire. We proudly use water reed, combed wheat reed, and long straw, offering friendly, practical advice on all aspects of thatched roofing.
53 Green End Road, Sawtry, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE28 5UY