Reeds – a versatile material with valuable properties

Reed is probably one of the oldest building materials, and in recent years interest in the renewable raw material has even increased significantly. Reed, which flourishes splendidly on the edges of lakes and streams or even in swampy areas, not only looks good as a long-lasting, reliably thatched roof that protects against cold and wet. If it is made into reed mats, it can also be used in the apartment, on the balcony or in the garden as wind or privacyor as a decorative element perform very well.

For the production of high-quality reed mats as far as possible straight grown straws are selected by the reed. The stalks are placed close to each other and at a distance of 10 cm with the help of wires or nylon threads in a weaving technique so connected together that a stable structure is formed. Then the top and bottom edges are trimmed. Reed mats in different dimensions and qualities are commercially available. Usually, the mat has a width of 6 m. The height ranges from 1 m to 2.2 m. Important quality characteristics are the strength of the stems and the number of stalks per meter. But it’s also worth taking a closer look at the material used to connect the stalks. Simple wire corrodes quickly when exposed outdoors to the weather. Nylon threads or galvanized wire have a much longer life. Nylon has the advantage that this material appears almost invisible. Anyone looking for a good and inexpensive visibility and weather protection, is well advised with a mat with 110 stalks per meter. These standard mats are characterized by a good price-performance ratio.

It is in the nature of the reed that it has to withstand water and wind. The elasticity and stability of silicon molecules in the plant tissue. The lotus effect can be observed on the surface of the flexible, yet stable stalks. If drops of water fall on them, they simply bead off. For the excellent thermal insulation, which plays a central role not only in the use of reeds for covering rooftops, provide the many air-filled spaces. Therefore, reed mats are also used in horticulture or in the hobby garden as thermal insulation for cold frames. However, since the mats are hardly translucent, they must be removed during the day. So the plants get light and the sun warms the soil. In the night, the stored heat in combination with the insulating reed mats even enough to provide tender young plants in slightly frosty outside temperatures reliable protection.

Professional design with reed mats

However, reed mats are not only valued for its protective properties, but are also popular for decorative outdoor and indoor use. Anyone who enjoys the summer on the balcony, annoys occasionally about wind or drafts. If the side walls are sealed with reed mats, this ensures a significant improvement of the microclimate. The protection against prying eyes of the neighbors is a positive side effect, which makes the stay on the balcony even more pleasant.

If you are planning a hearty summer night party, you should also get some reed mats. With a few simple steps can then make a hearty beach bar. A few matching accessories that can be attached directly to the mat, create the desired South Seas flair. Even in the apartment some use the cheap reed mats to create a special ambience. The imagination is virtually unlimited and the mats are easy to work with anyway. You do not have to be an experienced craftsman to attach the lightweight reed mats to the wall or to a light scaffold with a few cable ties, for example.