Typical price ranges
These are general UK figures from national price guides, with VAT. They are not our prices. Every roof is different, so we price each job after we see it.
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Full re-thatch, combed wheat reed, typical cottage, South East | £16,500 to £22,500 |
| Full re-thatch, combed wheat reed, typical cottage, London | £17,500 to £24,000 |
| Full re-thatch, combed wheat reed or long straw (national range) | £10,000 to £22,000 |
| Full re-thatch, water reed (national range) | £16,000 to £30,000 or more |
| Spar coat (a new top coat over the old base) | £8,000 to £16,000 |
| Re-ridge only | £3,500 to £8,000 |
Sources: Best Builders thatched roof cost guide (August 2026). Bark thatching prices.
What changes the price?
- The size and shape of the roof. Thatchers measure in "squares" of about 9.3 m² (100 square feet). Dormers, valleys and eyebrow windows add time.
- The material. Water reed usually costs more than combed wheat reed or long straw. Supply also changes the price from year to year.
- How much old thatch comes off. A full strip to the rafters costs more than a new coat over a sound base.
- The ridge. A block-cut ridge with a pattern takes longer than a flush ridge.
- Scaffold. Scaffold is always an extra cost. We get the scaffold price for you before we start. Waste removal is part of our service.
- Listed building rules. A listed house may need a set material or ridge style.
How long does the work take?
A re-ridge usually takes days. A full re-thatch of a cottage usually takes several weeks, depending on the size of the roof and the weather. We give you the expected time in your quote.
Our quotes
Our quotes are free and on a fixed-price basis. Each quote has a full, detailed description of the work. Every quote is valid for 12 weeks. A re-ridging quote that you accept within 12 weeks holds its price for work up to 2 years ahead. Every completed job has a 5-year written guarantee.