# Thatch re-ridging in Hertfordshire and the Home Counties

> The ridge is the cap along the top of a thatched roof. It takes the worst of the weather, so it wears out before the main coat. A new ridge every 10 to 15 years keeps the whole roof sound for longer.

- Block-cut or flush ridges
- New hazel liggers, spars and wire netting
- Ridge pattern matched to your house
- Accept within 12 weeks and book the work up to 2 years ahead at the same price

## Signs that your ridge needs work

Look for liggers (the hazel rods along the ridge) that lift or break. Look for a ridge that sits low or uneven, holes made by birds, and moss that holds water.

If you replace the ridge in time, the coat below it stays dry. A ridge left too long lets water into the top of the coat. Then the repair costs more.

## Ridge styles

A block-cut ridge is the raised ridge with a pattern of scallops and points cut along its lower edge. A flush ridge sits level with the coat. We match the style to your house, to its listing and to the local custom.

We fix each ridge with new hazel liggers and cross-rods. Wire netting over the roof keeps birds and rodents out.

## Questions

### How often does a thatched ridge need replacing?

Usually every 10 to 15 years. The ridge takes the worst of the weather. If you replace it in time, the main coat below stays dry and lasts longer.

### How much does it cost to re-thatch a roof?

Every roof is different, so we give you a free fixed-price quote after we see it. As a general guide, national 2026 price guides put a full re-thatch of a typical cottage in the South East at about £16,500 to £22,500 in combed wheat reed, and more in water reed. A re-ridge alone is usually £3,500 to £8,000. See our thatching costs page for more detail.

### Should moss be removed from a thatched roof?

Not always. Light moss can protect the thatch, so it is often best to leave it. Yes, get rid of very thick moss: it holds water against the thatch, so the reed decays faster. We look at each roof and decide. Remove moss carefully by hand, or the coat gets damaged. Cut back trees that shade the roof or drop leaves on it.

Contact C&C Master Thatchers: 07860 292801, info@masterthatchers.biz.

Source: https://ccmasterthatchers.co.uk/services/re-ridging/