Thatchers cover roofs of buildings with layers of thatching grass or thin reeds, laid vertically over thatching battens or saplings, to make them weatherproof. Thatched roofs are used on buildings such as houses, small hotels, game lodges and on lapas. In order to maintain the weatherproofness of a thatched roof, periodically if is necessary to remove old or damaged thatch, and then peg the new thatching material on the roof in overlapping layers, fixing it securely with treated twine of special hooks.
The thatcher trims the edges of the thatch at the eaves and sometimes decorative patterns are cut into the roof surface. The thatch is beaten and brushed until it is smooth and may then be covered with protective wire netting to keep out birds and pests.
This skilled work involves activities where hands are used to apply mechanical principles to practical situations.
Satisfying Aspects
- working with your hands
- being outdoors
- using tools, machinery and equipment to build, construct and repair thatched roofs
- creating beautiful thatched roofs, that have a long tradition
Demanding aspects
- having to work at roof height much of the time
- being exposed to weather conditions much of the time
- possibility of injury on the job
- unemployment during economic downturns
Requirements
- be hard working
- enjoy working with your hands
- have a sense of pride in your work
- have a good head for heights
- have good balance
- physical stamina
School Subjects
No special requirements.
Training
In-service training
Employer
- thatching company
- self-employed
Contact
CETA:
2nd Floor Unit 5
Momentum Business Park
Main Road
Midrand, 1685
Tel: (011) 265-5900
Fax: (011) 805-3093
www.ceta.org.za