Country Thatching is a traditional thatching company built on craftsmanship, experience and respect for the buildings we work on. Led by Master Thatcher James McCormack, and with over 37 years’ experience in the trade, we specialise in maintaining, repairing and renewing thatched roofs using established methods that prioritise longevity, performance and the character of each property.

Thatching is a skilled craft that demands patience, precision and a deep understanding of how traditional buildings behave over time. Every roof we work on is treated as individual — whether it requires a small repair, a new ridge, or a complete re-thatch.

Traditional Materials, Proven Methods

We work with all three principal thatching materials used in the UK:

• Long straw

• Combed wheat reed

• Water reed

Each material has its own characteristics, lifespan and suitability depending on the roof structure, location and exposure. We provide honest, practical advice to help clients choose the most appropriate solution, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Our work includes repairs, re-ridging (flush and patterned cut-cap), full and partial re-thatching, as well as passive fire protection advice and installation where required.

Fire Protection & Building Compliance

As traditional buildings continue to evolve, fire safety has become an increasingly important consideration — particularly in thatched properties. We offer passive fire protection guidance and installation, including the use of specialist fire barriers such as the FirePro Plus PU28, where appropriate.

All fire protection work is undertaken with care and discretion, ensuring improvements are made without compromising breathability or the integrity of the roof. We work alongside Building Control and Fire Officers when required, offering clear guidance based on current best practice.

Quality, Reliability & Peace of Mind

All new thatching work carried out by Country Thatching is completed to a high standard and is backed by a 10-year guarantee. From initial inspection through to completion, we aim to provide a straightforward, reliable service with clear communication throughout.

We offer free quotations and detailed estimates, allowing clients to make informed decisions without obligation.

A Personal, Hands-On Service

Country Thatching remains firmly hands-on. Work is not passed down a chain of subcontractors — the same experienced thatchers assess the roof, carry out the work and ensure it is finished correctly. This continuity is central to maintaining quality and accountability.

Whether maintaining a historic cottage, upgrading a roof as part of a conversion, or renewing a thatch that has reached the end of its lifespan, our approach remains the same: do the job properly, using traditional skills backed by decades of experience.