Because the raw materials for the straw are mostly 100% organic, there will always be a risk of the straw rotting. However, with the correct maintenance and storage procedures before raw materials are used, these risks can be minimized, if not almost eliminated.

Straw raw material storage

Freshly cut roofing grass is best kept out of the sun in a dry, covered area. This is because straw tends to break down physically through a combination of both physical (rain) and biological (sun) decomposition. This helps prevent the straw from starting to rot before the raw material is used.

Fact #1: The thatching technique used by master roofers around the world helps prevent decay as it is designed to keep the amount of thatch that is exposed to the elements to a minimum. This helps minimize the effects of weathering on the finished product.

What causes decomposition of straw?

Thatch decomposition begins from the very moment the individual grass stem is physically damaged. This damage can be caused by hail, rain or strong winds as well as changes in temperature. Often it is even a combination of the above factors that initiates and speeds up the decomposition process.

Fact #2: Exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun affects the epidermis (superficial cells) of grass stems. This causes them to divide over time and exposes the parenchyma (internal plant cells) which is softer and more easily damaged. This allows fungi to take the route inside the stem of the thatch grass and speeds up the rate of decomposition of the thatch.

To prevent sun and fungus damage to thatch structures, they must be built by qualified roofing crews so that correct thatching procedures are followed. This will ensure that the straw grass stalks are placed in such a way that only the smallest amount of straw stalk is exposed to the elements. This minimizes the amount of natural decomposition in a small outer layer of the thatched roof and lengthens the life of the thatched roof product.

To help prevent the spread of fungal spores on a thatched roof, it is prudent to keep the roof free of leaves and branches that can help introduce spores into the roof structure. To do this, it is advisable to build all buildings with thatched roofs away from the trees.

Fact #3: Fungal activity on thatched roof is optimal under conditions where the moisture content of the thatched roof grass exceeds 20% and the roof temperature range is not less than 20°C and not more than 30°C. °C To minimize this effect, it is advisable to monitor thatched roofs in hot and humid areas.