Traditional Thatch Roofs

09/06/2026

Groote Schuur Estate, Ronderbosch, Cape Town.

Why Re-thatching Your Roof at the Right Time Matters.

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is delaying a rethatch when their roof has reached the end of its service life. A worn, broken, or severely weathered thatch roof cannot simply be "compacted" to restore its integrity. Compaction works best on healthy thatch with sufficient material remaining. When a roof has deteriorated beyond this point, compaction often provides only a temporary improvement while underlying issues continue to worsen.

Investing in a professional rethatch in Cape Town at the correct time ensures your roof remains structurally sound, visually appealing, and protected against the harsh Cape weather conditions.

Contact

Michael Smith
Traditional Thatch Roofs
071 185 8563
www.traditionalthatchroofs.co.za

06/06/2026

Bergvliet Homestead, Cape Town

A glimpse of heritage dated 1769 Cape Dutch House.

Complete rethatch.

Michael Smith

Traditional Thatch Roofs -
Cape Town

071 185 8563

29/05/2026

20/05/2026

Another thatch roof brought back to life in Melkbosstrand.

This roof underwent its first major service after being installed over 10 years ago by previous contractors — and the hidden damage told the full story. The original galvanized stitching wire had completely oxidized and rusted away, compromising the roof’s integrity and structural hold.

Our team carried out a complete restoration.

Quality workmanship and the correct materials make all the difference when it comes to the lifespan and safety of a thatch roof.

Need your thatch roof inspected or restored?
Contact Traditional Thatch Roofs for professional advice and certified workmanship.

Michael Smith – 071 185 8563
Traditional Thatch Roofs

14/05/2026

Complete rethatch project on this beautiful thatch lapa in the peaceful town of Piketberg, located on the northern side of the greater Cape Town region, Western Cape.

Piketberg is truly one of South Africa’s hidden gems surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, rolling mountains views, and wild the Proteas growing naturally along the roadside. Although it’s only about an hour’s drive from Melkbosstrand, every visit feels like a special getaway thanks to the warm hospitality and friendly people of this unique town.

Traditional Thatch Roofs, specialize in professional thatch roofing services including complete rethatching, thatch roof restoration, roof maintenance, fire-retardant treatment, waterproofing, new thatch roof construction and building projects across Cape Town, the West Coast, and surrounding areas.

Looking for experienced thatch roofing contractor in Cape Town or the West Coast?

Contact Michael Smith today to book an appointment for all your thatch roofing services and projects.

071 185 8563

06/05/2026

When thatch roofing in Cape Town isn’t just your daily work, it’s a way of life, a craft passed down and remembered as art by those who first shaped this beautiful, lifelong tradition.

Contact Michael Smith today for all your thatch roofing advice 071 185 8563

20/04/2026

Thatch Roof Repairs and Maintenance.

Regular thatch maintenance is essential to preserve the natural beauty, functionality, and longevity of your thatch roof. Our comprehensive Thatch Roof Services and maintenance are designed to protect your investment and ensure your roof remains in optimal condition for years to come.

The ideal time to maintain a thatch roof is typically in late spring or early summer, just before the rainy season begins. This timing ensures that your thatch roof is well-prepared to withstand heavy rains, reducing the risk of mould, rot, or leaks caused by moisture build-up.

Call Traditional Thatch Roofs today to book an appointment.

Michael 071 185 8563

20/04/2026

There’s no shortcut here thatch roofs are beautiful, but only if you respect what they need.

A thatch roof offers natural insulation, keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter, while also giving a timeless, character-rich look that adds real value to your property. It’s an eco-friendly choice, using natural materials that blend seamlessly with the environment.

But the key to keeping those benefits? Maintenance. Regular inspections, re-thatching, and treatments (like fire retardant and waterproofing) prevent costly damage, extend the life of your roof, and keep your home safe. Neglect it, and small issues turn into expensive problems fast.

Look after your thatch roof and it will look after you.

Call Traditional Thatch Roofs today to book an appointment.

Michael Smith

09/04/2026

Bergvliet Homestead Farm

In 1685 Governor Simon van der Stel was granted a farm and grazing rights on a vast estate he called Constantia. After his death in 1712 his property was divided into two portions – Constantia and Bergvliet. In 1769, Petrus Michel Eksteen acquired the farm and built the Bergvliet homestead (above) near Die Oog. The Homestead still stands, and was proclaimed a National Monument in 1989 (now declared a Provincial Heritage Site, Grade II).

In the 1990s, Fiona Watson and Esme Morris identified several rare and endangered species of plants on Meadowridge Common including the protea Diastella proteoides and the bulb Moraea elsiae. They formed the Friends of Meadowridge Common which comprises dedicated and interested citizens whose common interest is the conservation of this small natural remnant of the original Bergvliet farm.

07/04/2026

Thatch roofs and timber structures are now required to be fire re****ed and for good reason.

Fire retardant treatment plays a critical role in slowing down the spread of flames during the most crucial early stages of a fire, giving valuable time to react, control, and potentially prevent devastating damage. When correctly applied and properly maintained, it also helps preserve the lifespan and condition of your thatch roof.

This is not just about compliance, it’s about protecting your home, your investment, and most importantly, saving lives.

Ensure your roof and structure is treated, maintained, and up to standard.