WHAT TYPE OF WOOD IS USED TO CONSTRUCT THE PALAPAS?
All wood is Pressure-treated Grade “A” lodge pole pine for maximum lifespan.

DO YOU CARRY REPLACEMENT THATCH?
Yes. We carry all replacement thatch for our Palapas: individual panels and 9’ & 12’ umbrella replacement thatch. For pricing please see our thatching pages:
Please click here to view our thatching price list page

HOW LONG DOES THE THATCH LAST?
In dry climates our hand-woven thatching usually lasts about 3-5 years, and less in more humid climates.

HOW MUCH DO I BUY?
Mexican Raincape Panels:
Take the total square footage to be covered and add 15%, multiple that amount by 2 (for a double layer of thatch), then divide by 12. This formula enables some overlapping and overhang of the thatch. Remember each panel is approximately 48” x 36”.

South African Reed Thatch:
Divide the roof area by 2.5 to get the number of panels needed. Each panel gives 2.5 square feet of coverage and measures approximately 31” x 17”.

HOW WELL DOES THE THATCH HOLD UP IN WIND?
The hand woven thatch, if properly installed on the Palapa, will withstand winds up to 50-60 miles per hour. Unlike, a metal or canvas umbrellas, the thatching is hand-woven and allows air to flow thru it.

DO YOU HAVE THATCH TO COVER A TIKI BAR, BARBEQUE, PATIO COVER, OR A CUSTOM AREA? AND HOW DO I INSTALL THE INDIVIDUAL PIECES?
Yes. We carry individual panels approximately 3’ x 4’ that are perfect to fit that custom project. This is an easy do-it-yourself project. First, install the panels in horizontal rows beginning at the bottom and staple to the subsurface. For subsequent vertical rows, overlap the panels to overhang the panels below. We suggest double layering the thatch to achieve a plush authentic look. Each panel can be cut to fit your own unique application.

WHEN DO I REPLACE THE THATCH?
We of course recommend a double layer of hand-woven Mexican rain-cape thatch for any project. In that case, your top layer of thatch will last from 3-5 years in dryer climates, and less in damp, humid, and cooler climates. You will need to replace, THE TOP LAYER ONLY, when it begins to deteriorate and the bottom layer becomes exposed to the elements.

DOES MY PALAPA/THATCH REQUIRE A GREAT DEAL OF MAINTENANCE?
No. When thatch is new and first exposed to the rain, the thatch sometimes leaches a natural runoff that can spot the ground, but washes right off. To avoid unnecessary cleanup, the thatch should be thoroughly hosed down a couple of times a year. In colder climates, with longer exposure to damp weather, mold may slightly build up on your Palapa/Thatching-simply spray the Palapa/Thatching with a bleach/water solution or a mild mold-a-cide.

HOW DO I INSTALL A PALAPA?
Our Palapa Kit is a simple do-it-yourself project. Installation is a breeze, dig a hole or core a hole, construct the frame, and place the pre-woven thatch tops on the frame and enjoy.

CAN I INSTALL A PALAPA IN AN EXISTING CONCRETE PATIO OR POOL DECK?
Yes. This is a simple process; an 8” diameter core is drilled out of the existing slab (usually 4-5”). Then an 18” deep hole is dug with a posthole digger and the pole can be inserted.

CAN I INSTALL A PALAPA ON A WOOD DECK?
Yes. If you want to secure a single pole Palapa to a wood deck we offer an iron stand that will secure it to your wood decking.

DO YOU INSTALL PALAPAS?
Yes. We will install single pole Palapas Kits in the San Diego, Orange and Los Angeles County areas for $300.00. Please call us for an appointment or for a quote on a Custom Palapa installation at (760) 431-7296 or (949) 498-0530.

ARE THE INSTALLERS INSURED?
Yes. Palapa Kings, Inc. carries both liability and worker’s compensation insurance.

DO YOU OFFER FIRE RETARDANT ON THE PALAPAS?
Yes. We do offer fire retardant in both exterior and interior applications. A California State Fire Marshall Certificate will be issued.
Please click here to view our fire retardant certificate

DO I NEED FIRE RETARDANT ON MY PALAPA?
If the Palapas’ or thatch materials are to be used in a commercial setting, i.e. restaurant, bar, etc…. then it is required by code. If the Palapas’ or thatch materials are for Residential use, they DO NOT need fire retardant applied. All residential customers have the option of choosing which they prefer.

WHAT IS YOUR PRODUCT(S) GUARANTEE?
Please click here to download our Limited Structure warranty