
Ideas, advice & outdoor living
Brushwood to Thatch
Changing a brushwood roof to thatch can give an existing outdoor structure a Balinese-style finish, subject to the suitability of the frame.

Brushwood Roofs to Thatch Roofs
Can brushwood roofing be repaired?
Durability and the availability of brushwood can make repairing an old roof impractical. Brisbane Thatch & Decks can assess your existing structure and discuss replacing the covering with Balinese thatch.
What options are there?
For quality, durability and appearance, we recommend considering an upgrade to natural Bali (Alang Alang) thatch. There may be no need to demolish your old hut: a suitable frame can be adapted to support the new roof.
Why Bali thatch?
Balinese thatching is versatile and can be applied to suitable existing brushwood structures with changes to the framing. The natural roof gives the gazebo a fresh appearance from both inside and outside, while providing shade and shelter.
A conversion can offer a longer-lasting roof with less falling debris and maintenance than an ageing brushwood covering. The frame condition, roof pitch, installation and surroundings all influence the finished result.
Thatching method
We review the frame first and confirm the work needed for your roof. A brushwood-to-thatch conversion can include the following steps.
- 01
Remove the old roofing
Remove the old and damaged brushwood, underlay and plywood from the existing structure.
- 02
Adjust the roof pitch
Where needed, re-pitch the frame to suit the thatching system. The required pitch and structural alterations are confirmed for the project.
- 03
Review the rafters
Assess the existing rafters and install additional supports where required.
- 04
Complete the frame details
Provide and install the kicker bar and ridge extension needed for the new roof.
- 05
Install Balinese thatch
Thatch the prepared frame to transform the hut into a Balinese-style pergola.
- 06
Clear the site
Remove the old roofing and unwanted materials from the site.
Give your existing gazebo a new roof
Brisbane Thatch & Decks works with existing outdoor structures to plan roof replacements and Balinese thatch upgrades. If your brushwood roof is no longer performing well, send us photographs of the outside and underneath so we can discuss the options.
Alang Alang thatch brings a softer, natural appearance to the garden and can be fitted to a suitable existing structure. We will discuss the roof condition, changes needed, expected maintenance and site access when preparing your quote.
Discuss your brushwood-to-thatch upgrade
Contact Johan for more information or a free quote. Include your suburb, approximate roof dimensions and a description of the existing structure. A site inspection can be arranged.
