Loss of skills: One of the most significant challenges is the decline in skilled thatchers. As the traditional craft has faded, fewer apprentices are entering the field, and many experienced thatchers are retiring. This creates a shortage of qualified professionals to repair and maintain traditional thatched roofs, threatening the survival of the historic arm of the craft.

Lack of training opportunities: There are very few options for gaining training or experience in Welsh thatching. This is compounded by the logistical and financial challenges of finding suitable roofs to work on.

Lack of understanding of variations of vernacular styles: Many thatched roofs are becoming homogenised in Wales and more similar to English styles of thatch. It is also often the case that traditional base coats are stripped off rather than retaining the traditional materials.

Availability of raw materials: The cost of materials used for thatching, such as water reed, straw, etc. has risen in recent years. In addition, sourcing high-quality, locally available materials has become more difficult, with some materials requiring importation. The availability of these traditional materials is being further restricted due to land use changes and the decline in traditional farming practices. Other lesser known materials such as rushes, sedges, broom and marram grass can be difficult to source due to restrictions on harvesting wild materials and environmental concerns.

Longevity of vernacular thatch: traditional thatch tends to have a shorter lifespan than modern thatch and has to be replaced more frequently. Many home owners will make a pragmatic, financial decision to replace it with something longer lasting and more cost effective providing the building is not listed.

Weather and climate change: The increasingly wet and unpredictable climate of Wales poses a challenge to the longevity and durability of thatched roofs. While thatch is naturally water-resistant, prolonged rainfall and stormy weather can cause thatch to degrade faster, leading to the need for more frequent repairs. Climate change is likely to exacerbate these problems, creating more extreme weather events that may damage thatched roofs more quickly.

Lack of funding for heritage buildings: While there is significant interest in preserving historical thatched buildings, restoring and maintaining heritage thatch can be a complex and expensive process. In some cases, there is a lack of funding or support for restoration projects, which can result in thatched buildings falling into disrepair. Many historic properties in Wales with thatched roofs require specialist care to ensure the work is done correctly, respecting traditional methods.

Lack of Public Awareness and Understanding: There is sometimes a lack of awareness and understanding among the public about the importance and value of thatched roofs in Welsh heritage. This can lead to a lack of interest in preserving and maintaining these traditional roofs. Without strong support from communities and heritage organisations, thatching risks being overlooked as a vital part of Wales’ cultural and architectural history.

Environmental and Conservation Factors: While thatch is a sustainable material, environmental regulations and modern conservation practices sometimes hinder its use. For example, in certain areas, the cutting and use of materials like reed or rushes are regulated, or certain wildlife protections may restrict their harvesting. This can make it difficult to source the necessary materials while still complying with modern environmental laws.