A thatched roof is a type of roof made from dry vegetation such as straw, water reed, sedge, rushes, heather, or palm branches, layered in a way that sheds water away from the inner roof. Thatching is a craft that has been used for millennia and is still prevalent in some equatorial countries. Thatch has several advantages, including being a natural insulator that keeps a building cool in summer and warm in winter, having good resistance to wind damage when applied correctly, and being a versatile material that can cover irregular roof structures. Thatch is also a sustainable material that can be made from recycled and natural materials. However, there are also some disadvantages to thatched roofs, such as the initial labor-intensive installation process, the need for regular inspections to check for moss, leaks, and animal nesting, and the risk of fire. The lifespan of a thatched roof depends on several factors, including the quality of the material, the expertise of the thatcher, and the pitch and design of the roof. The ridge of a thatched roof requires attention every 10 to 15 years, and localized areas of decay may be repaired with new thatch to prolong the life of the roof.