Combed Straw / Combed Wheat Reed

The straw is grown the same as for long straw it is harvested the same then the difference is it combed rather than threshed the machine combs the flag and grain from the straw it is then machined tied into bundles.

There is little preparation before placing on roof, it is dissimilar to long straw in that all the butts are one way and it is dressed onto the roof to give a finish like water reed. There is some trimming of verges

Our normal thickness is 12”-14” (300mm-350mm)

The other specifications follow long straw.

This material is not common in the eastern counties several councils have all but banned its use. It is widely used in the south of the country and started to make inroads in the east during the late 70’s early 80’s It became popular mainly because there is little or no preparation involved as with long straw.

As thatched properties were listed it became illegal to change from long straw to combed straw several councils took legal action and it is now unusual to see a combed straw thatch taking place in this area.

If your roof has combed straw on it you can replace it with the same. Most conservation officers would prefer to see long straw used, but they cannot deny a like for like replacement.