Palmex Thatch vs Natural Thatch

20 Years Warranty

Generally non-existent

50 years

Replaced every 2 to 5 years

Made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE)

Industrial strength

UV protection

Same polymer used to manufacture fuel cans, paddleboats, kayaks, sleds, slides, etc.

Often suffers damage from climate conditions, insects, moss, rot, as well as exposure to sun, wind and sea air

These days, traditional thatch preparation (proper harvesting, saltwater treatment, drying sequence, weaving, etc.) is often neglected or compromised

Maintenance free self cleaning design

No accumulation of residue

Regular maintenance required; repairs, insecticides, fumigation, fire-resistance treatments, cleaning of underlying floors and furniture, etc.

Recurring labour costs

Certified for winds of 260 km/h (162 mph)

Wind clips available for additional resistance

No existing standards – generally low wind resistance

Ensuing repairs and maintenance involved

Guaranteed 100% watertight for roofs sloped at 30 degrees or greater

Palmex patented installation systems provide the structure with great waterproof qualities

Requires very thick layering (high leaf volume) to attain water-tightness

Heavy roof structure

Negatively affected by humidity

HDPE is naturally a low-flammable material

Certified “fire-retardant” models also available (FR)

Highly flammable and may cause fires

High risk of fire propagation

Costly insurance coverage and high risk of refusal

Guaranteed fade resistant (under warranty)

Fast, progressive fading

Visible colour discrepancies after repairs

Material does not attract insects, rodents, birds, etc.

Susceptible to infestations and nesting

Layered installation method (allowing air pockets), makes for much cooler under-roof temperatures

Weak insulation capabilities means a high volume of leaves are required (very thick layering)

Undeniable return on investment

Adds value to the building structures

No added value

Lower insurance costs

Palmex products are deemed entirely safe

High risk factor

Costly insurance or insurance refusal

Eco-friendly

100% recyclable

No toxic products required (cleaning, etc.)

Rain water harvesting possible

Damage to the natural environment (harvesting leaves)

Roof maintenance often leads to pollution via toxic products such as insecticides, pesticides, fire prevention sprays, etc.

Instructions provided by Palmex (quick and easy)

Minimal skills required

Requires skilled labourers

Longer, complicated and costly installation process

Optimized transport and storage: high coverage, low shipping/ storage volume, thin leaves, compressed packaging.

Export:

• 20’ container = up to 3,500 m2 / 37,700 sq.ft
• 40’ container = up to 8,000 m2 / 86,100 sq.ft

To cover an equal surface per m2 or sq.ft, natural thatch roofing requires approximately 11 times the volume of

Palmex products (transport and storage)

1 container of Palmex leaves= 11 containers of natural leaves