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Thatch roof conversions · Eastern Cape
From thatch to IBR or roof tiles.
Complete roof conversions with careful removal, structural preparation and a weatherproof new finish.IBR and roof-tile conversions
Replace ageing thatch with a roof built for the next chapter.
Kei Thatching converts existing thatch roofs to IBR roof sheeting or roof tiles. The process is planned around the building, roof pitch, existing timber structure, exposure and the finish the owner wants.
A conversion is more than covering the old roof. We assess the structure, remove unsuitable material, repair or strengthen the roof where needed, and complete the new covering with the correct underlay, flashings, ridges, valleys and rainwater details.
IBR roof sheeting
IBR—Inverted Box Rib—is a strong, practical profile for converting many former thatch roofs. Its comparatively low weight can reduce the structural demands of the new covering, while long sheets create fewer horizontal joints.
- Durable, low-maintenance roof covering
- Good water run-off when pitch and laps are correct
- Available in a range of colours and coated finishes
- Can be paired with insulation and condensation control
- Neat ridge, valley, flashing and gutter details
Roof-tile conversions
Roof tiles offer a substantial, familiar appearance for homes and lodges. Because tiles are considerably heavier than metal sheeting, the existing trusses, supports, pitch and batten spacing must be assessed before a tiled conversion is specified.
- Concrete or other suitable tile systems
- Structural checks and strengthening where required
- Correct underlay, battens and fixing pattern
- Careful hips, ridges, valleys and abutments
- Finished to suit the building’s character

A complete conversion
The new roof is only as dependable as the structure below it.
Every conversion begins with an inspection. The final method depends on the condition of the roof timbers, the chosen covering and the way water must move across and away from the building.
- Inspect and measure the existing roof structure
- Remove old thatch and unsuitable roof material
- Repair, level or strengthen timber supports where needed
- Install underlay, insulation and moisture-control layers
- Fit the IBR sheets or roof tiles and complete all details
- Finish ridges, valleys, flashings, gutters and outlets
Planned from structure to finish
What is included in the conversion.
The exact scope is based on an on-site assessment and the roofing system selected for the building.
Roof assessment
We inspect the shape, pitch, spans, timber condition, access and drainage before recommending IBR sheeting or a tiled system.
Structural work
Damaged or unsuitable elements are identified so the roof can be repaired, strengthened and prepared for the new covering.
Underlay & insulation
The roof build-up can include suitable underlay, insulation and moisture control for the selected covering and conditions.
Weatherproof detailing
Fasteners, flashings, ridges, valleys, edges, gutters and penetrations are finished as one coordinated roofing system.
Featured roofing project · Port Alfred
Greenfountain Resort
Follow the conversion from ageing thatch to a clean, weather-resistant IBR roof system—from removal and structural preparation through to sheeting and finishing.
Thatch-to-IBR conversion
The full roofing process, captured on site.
Aerial photographs
The project from above.
Drone video
See the Greenfountain Resort roof conversion from the air.
The video starts silently. Use the player controls to switch the sound on.Installation videos
See the roof sheeting work in progress.
Videos start silently. Use the player controls to switch the sound on.Planning an IBR or roof-tile conversion?