NEWS
Applying chemical substances
to thatched roofs – TASA
The Thatchers Association of South Africa (TASA) has noted an
increase in inquiries and complaints regarding certain chemical
products applied to thatch roofs.
TASA’S THATCHING TIPS
TASA reports an increase in inquiries and complaints regarding certain chemical
products applied to thatch roofs.
“W
e request that members of the association and the general
public research and investigate any chemical substances
properly before application, as certain products may have an
adverse effect on the lifespan of the roof,” says Elzabie Meintjes, TASA
administrative officer.
“The application of chemical substances to thatched roofs must be repeated
every five to seven years, and that a thatched roof must first be served
beforehand as explained in TASA’s Guide to Thatch Construction in South Africa to
make sure, among other things, that the compaction, which is an important
factor, is tight,” advises Meintjes.
4
OCTOBER 2018
CLADDING // CONCRETE // INSULATION // STEEL // THATCH // TIMBER // TRANSLUCENT // WATERPROOFING // COMPONENTS
• Waterproofing properties
It is almost impossible to waterproof a thatched
layer with a chemical or coating without
hindering the thatched layers ability to
‘breathe’. Proper thatching techniques ensure
that any water ingress into the layer does not
penetrate far enough to cause water to go
through the thatched layer. Any product which
claims to waterproof the thatched layer will
obstruct the moisture trapped in the grass from
drying out. This stagnant moisture may cause
the premature decay of the thatched roof.
• Extends the life of the thatched roof
There are no known and environmentally safe
spray-on chemical substances which are able to
drastically extend the life of a thatched roof.
Certain products may assist initially but will
soon wear off on the thatched layer it was
applied to.
• Prevents dust
Again, blocking of the natural air flow through
the thatched layer can trap in moisture which can
negatively impact the life of the thatched roof.
• Prevents bird and monkey damage
There is a known case, with a judgment handed
down from the Advertising Standards Authority,
against a company which claimed that bird and
monkey damage could be prevented by
applying a certain product. These types of
applications are not effective.
• SABS approved / SABS tested
In relation to chemical or coating products for
thatched roofs, the SABS Standards Act of 2008
strictly prohibits the unauthorised use of the
SABS mark in respect to a commodity which
creates an impression that the commodity has
been approved by the SABS. The use of the
terms SABS tested, SABS approved or SABS
compliant are to be considered unlawful
trademark infringements. Any product purporting
to be SABS approved should be reported to SABS
legal department for investigation.