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As a leader in the production and distribution of eco-friendly synthetic palm leaves for more then 15 years, we have come across some of the most commonly asked questions by customers like you. Our goal at Palmex International is to educate you on everything there is to know about our products.
Here are answers to some of the most frequently-asked questions regarding Palmex synthetic thatch roofing.
HOW DO PALMEX PRODUCTS STAND UP TO THE HEAT?
High-density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a non-reactive material that conducts neither heat nor cold. In addition, with our layered installation method that creates air pockets, Palmex structures maintain cooler under-roof temperatures year-long, in all seasons and throughout the product’s entire lifespan, than their natural counterparts.
ARE PALMEX LEAVES FLAMMABLE?
Our fire-retardant products (FR) are built up with a supplemented fireproof component making them non-flammable.
ARE PALMEX THATCHED ROOFS WATERPROOF?
Palmex roofs are guaranteed to be 100% watertight when placed at 30° pitch or greater (with wind clips). The layering of leaves and the fixture method provide the structure with its waterproof qualities. Furthermore, our watertight installation does not require an underlay membrane. This makes Palmex product unique.
HOW RESISTANT TO HIGH WINDS IS A PALMEX SYNTHETIC THATCH ROOF?
Our thatching material has been independently tested for resistance against strong winds and storms. It can withstand gales of up to 160 mph (260 kph) without tearing, loosening or permanently losing its shape. Indeed, temporarily the leaf may be twisted by strong winds, but ultimately our patented shape-memory polymer fully recovers its initial appearance.
Palmex synthetic thatch roofs have successfully resisted to hurricanes with winds measured well beyond this figure, such as in the Caribbean islands, among other locations, and more recently with hurricanes Irma and Maria where winds reached 295 km/h and 280 km/h in September 2017.
DOES THE COLOR OF THE LEAVES CHANGE OVER TIME?
Our leaves are certified UV protected. However, the color will slowly be modified over the long run due to sun rays, but the fading is minimal and does not affect the quality of our product.
HOW MUCH MAINTENANCE DOES A PALMEX ARTIFICIAL THATCH ROOF REQUIRE?
Absolutely none. Any particles, leaves or small branches from surrounding trees are easily washed away by rain.
HOW LONG WILL A PALMEX THATCH ROOF LAST?
Our thatch roofs carry a 20-year warranty, independently of climate conditions and exposure to precipitations or intense sunlight. Thanks to the quality of the material used, our thatched roofs are expected to last another 30 years.
CAN I INSTALL MY THATCHED ROOF MYSELF?
Yes. Our thatching material is shipped with full instructions upon request. In addition, Palmex International offers its clients support throughout their projects. For major thatch roofing projects, it is advisable to have some skills and knowledge of roof mounting or to consult a professional roofer.
WHO OPTS FOR SYNTHETIC THATCH ROOFING?
Nowadays artificial thatch roofing is the number one choice of professionals and individuals in several key sectors of the economy.
Professionals in the hotel and tourist industry
Palm roof thatching is unbeatable when it comes to providing resort facilities with an authentic exotic power of attraction or the peaceful and inspiring atmosphere needed to relax weary vacationers. Hotel roofs and window eaves, terrace and balcony canopies, pool houses, BBQ or outdoor cooking areas, shower cabins and beach bars… you name it, we thatch it.
Exterior and even interior designers
Artificial thatched roofs are the fast, easy, green and affordable answer to the rising demand for shelter roofing in theme parks, gardens, yards, venues and zoos. All kinds of thatched huts, gazebos, umbrellas, venues stands, playground shelters and shade features offer comfort and protection to visitors, owners, guests and also to animals.
Residential homeowners
Synthetic thatch roofing is becoming more and more popular not only as a main roof covering option, but also for yard-sized structures, balcony and terrace canopies or high-end features. Our modern thatching material gives them the chance to make their dream come true, that of creating their own private oasis in a unique way that links past and present.
Modern architects
Artificial thatch provides a new generation of artists and architects with a material so versatile and attractive that it fuels the most vivid imaginations and unleashes the most untamed free spirits. As a matter of fact, artificial palm leaves offer an unlimited number of roof-design options, from the most conventional to the most daring and avant-garde, without any concessions as to other vital aspects.
And many others
Among those who do not fall into a specific category of consumers, there are many resourceful individuals such as the fishermen who thatch their boats, many handymen and women, open market vendors and hobbyists and mobile homeowners who undertake various projects. Palmex artificial thatch roofing products are exceptionally easy to install with their railing system or with screws, nails and staples. We also stand by do-it-yourselfers with advice and expertise when needed during their projects.
Palmex International team