Balinese Tropical Roofing Style: The Alang-Alang Thatch Roof

Balinese roof style is not only aesthetic but also functional. The design of Balinese roofs can harmonize with the tropical climate and also has philosophical value. Although there are many modern roof designs, Balinese traditional roofing remains a consideration for many architects. Learn more about the alang-alang roof, one of the Balinese traditional roofing designs.

Introduction to the Alang-Alang Roof

Balinese roofs often use natural materials, including wood, bamboo, and straw or ‘alang-alang’. These materials are not only used to preserve tradition but are also suitable for the tropical climate. Houses can be protected from tropical weather, in harmony with nature, and aesthetically pleasing.

Alang-alang roofs are also a cultural symbol. These iconic roofs are very popular in Bali, not only for houses but also for other buildings such as gazebos. You can often see alang-alang roofs in temples, traditional houses, or other cultural sites.

This roof design uses dried grass (alang-alang) arranged in layers. The result is a thick roof with good insulation that can improve natural ventilation. Alang-alang roofs also usually have a pyramid-shaped design and are quite steep.

Why? This allows rainwater to run off quickly, preventing water from seeping in. In Bali, rainfall can be quite high, especially in certain months. A steeply sloped roof can extend the life of a house.

Alang-alang is quite easy to find and has been used for generations in Bali. Alang-alang material is also more environmentally friendly than other materials.

Advantages of Using Alang-Alang Roof

Using a thatched roof can enhance aesthetics naturally. Thatch roofs can be used for gazebos, restaurants, cafes, villas, or private homes. If you are environmentally conscious, this roof can be an option.

Although very popular in rural areas, alang-alang roofs can also be found in many places in Bali, even in resorts. The use of this roof is intended to harmonize with the tropical climate, respect tradition, and unique aesthetics. As an architect in Bali, I often use alang-alang roofs for several clients.

This type of roof may not appear fragile, but it is actually quite sturdy. Alang-alang roofs are carefully constructed so that each layer supports the others. Read on to find out why you should use this traditional Balinese roofing:

Ideal for Various Buildings

Alang-alang roofs can be installed on many types of buildings. In Bali, these roofs are often used for villas, especially those with a tropical concept. Staying in a tropical villa is very relaxing, especially if the architecture is also typically tropical in style.

This roof is also very popular for gazebos. If you visit a villa or hotel with a swimming pool, the gazebo there usually has a thatched roof. Other buildings, such as pavilions in resorts, cafes, and restaurants in Bali, also often use this type of tropical roof. Whether for commercial or private properties, thatched roofs can be the first choice for tropical roofing.

Surprisingly Durable

You might think that this natural material is not durable. In fact, thatch roofs have a fairly long lifespan, up to 10 years with regular maintenance. If you want it to last longer, you can use synthetic thatch, which can last up to 20 years as long as it is well maintained.

The installation of thatch is quite complicated and requires high precision. Therefore, rely on professional and experienced thatch roof installation services. Starting from the selection of quality thatch, effective binding, and thorough drying are important factors for the durability of this roof.

Budget Roofing Design

If you need a more cost-effective roof design, the use of natural materials such as thatch can be considered. Compared to many other materials, thatch is much lower in cost. However, if you use synthetic thatch, it can be more expensive than natural thatch.

You can even save money by relying on an architect who understands the use of natural materials for roofing well. Using thatch roofing does not necessarily require a lot of material as long as it is installed with optimal weaving techniques.

Faster Installation

The installation of thatched roofs can be done quickly, especially if done by professionals. In Bali, you can find local roofing teams with years of experience. They can weave thatch well and quickly.

Depending on the scale of the building, thatch roof installation can be done in a short time. This is different from using ceramic or concrete tiles, which require a strong and more complex frame.

Thatch is much lighter than conventional tiles, making it easier to install. Thatch roof installation can also be easily adapted to creative architectural ideas or to make it more personal.

Supporting Home Coolness

Conventional tiles do not sufficiently support the coolness of the house, especially in Bali, which has a tropical climate. Therefore, the use of thatch, wood, and bamboo has become a tradition passed down from generation to generation in Bali that is still relevant today. Thatch is a material that has insulating properties, so it can minimize excess heat.

Especially in tropical climates, roofs that can reduce heat and support air circulation are essential. If you install a thatch roof, you may not need to use air conditioning as often.

Tropical Aesthetics

If you prefer tropical aesthetics, thatched roofs are the perfect roofing choice. Thatch roofing combines the dynamic long and short fibers and natural textures that can beautify a building. The color of thatched roofs, even when faded, is in harmony with the concepts of outdoor, wellness, and relaxation.

Arkana Architects can provide solutions for those dreaming of a tropical-style building in Bali. You can expect architecture that blends Balinese tradition, modernity, and a focus on comfort from Arkana Architects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of roof is ideal for a tropical climate?

Choose roofing materials that effectively reduce heat and support ventilation. Consider roofs with sufficient slope for better rainwater flow and improved air circulation.

What are the characteristics of a Balinese roof?

Balinese roofs typically use natural materials such as palm fiber, straw/alang-alang, and clay tiles. The roof shape is usually limasan or pelana.

How long can a thatched roof last?

A thatched roof must be properly maintained to last for decades. A thatched roof usually lasts 15 to 40 years.

Is a thatched roof worth it?

A thatched roof can protect a building from extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold. Residents can remain comfortable during both winter and summer.