How To Thatch With PALM ISLAND THATCH™
Introduction
Sunset Bamboo™ offers a great selection of thatch to give your backyard, tiki bar or outdoor space that
tropical look and feel with palm thatching. Easy to install, our palm thatch are constructed from the leaves of palms and have the unique ability to withstand sun, rain and wind as well as having great insulation qualities. Our exclusive Palm Island Thatch™ are constructed by taking natural palm leaves, making them into strips and then curing them. They are then woven into what we call "thatch" to make a number of different products.
Determining How Much Thatch
If using the 30" x 57' Thatch Rolls, a good rule of thumb, although not exact, is to take the total square footage to be covered and double it (for a double layer of thatch). Each roll measures about 114 square feet (excluding the fringe), so divide the total by 114 and then add 10 or 15% for overlapping and overhang. The result is the approximate number of rolls needed for your project.
Cutting the Thatch
Thatch rolls and panels can be cut to fit any size and shape tiki hut or bar. Our thatch are hand woven with a knot and weave pattern, this allows you to cut the thatch, horizontal, vertical or diagonal without unraveling the final product. If you need to trim off any excess overhang, this should be done from the knotted side. Determine the amount to cut and follow a uniform or straight line along the knotted pattern. This will render a finished and layered look from the outside (unknotted side).
Attaching the Thatch
There are several ways to attach the thatch to the roof. The prefered method should be done with a staple gun and galvanized staples. Depending on the sub roof, meaning the thickness of plywood the recommended staples should be 1/2” to 3/4”.
If your structure is seasonal, and you plan on removing the top for winter storage, zip lock ties are the best alternative for attachement. This, will allow you to remove the thatch with little to no damage to the material.
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