Cool, breezy, and always in fashion, tiki huts have been the ultimate symbol of tropical escapism since they were first built in the 1950s. These deceptively simple outdoor structures have delighted hearts, minds, and imaginations for decades because they effortlessly balance fun and practicality. When building a tiki hut, you’ll want environmentally friendly products that help melt your cares away. Not all tiki hut materials are eco-friendly, so choose your materials wisely to get the best results.
A well-crafted tiki hut can morph any space into a tropical haven. Commercial tiki huts fit well for your restaurant, hotel, theme park or water park. You can create the perfect getaway right in your backyard if you’re a homeowner. Whether building a commercial or residential tiki hut, choosing the proper materials to complete your vision is key.
At amaZulu Inc., we offer a variety of natural and synthetic tiki hut materials from around the globe. Our diverse selection of sustainable, construction-grade materials makes it easy to find what you need for your project.
Large Bamboo Poles
A favorite tiki hut building material is bamboo. Bamboo has long been a top choice for natural construction materials. Bamboo poles are a fantastic pick for the structural components when planning your tiki hut construction project. Both solid bamboo poles and Tre-Gai bamboo are certified as construction-grade materials, so they’re ideal for load-bearing applications. This includes building tiki huts, full bars, and hostess stands of all shapes and sizes. The bamboo is also treated against insects.
Eucalyptus
Looking for a sustainable, construction-grade material that is stronger than hardwood? Then you’re looking for eucalyptus poles. These pressure-treated eucalyptus poles have a natural, rustic feel, adding an exotic touch to any outdoor structure. Many outdoor restaurant dining areas have been built using eucalyptus poles which can be fire retarded if necessary.
Natural Thatch
A shaggy tiki hut grass roof is a defining characteristic, so a thatch roof is a must. However, that still leaves you with plenty of tiki hut roof ideas to sort through. Natural thatch is a prominent starting place. If you prize authenticity or have any concerns about animals having access to the roofing, natural thatch is a clear choice. It can also be a good option if you want an affordable selection and will be building a tiki hut in a protected, indoor installation.
Synthetic Thatch
A synthetic thatch may be a better bet if your tiki hut is located outside. Crafted from high-density polyethylene, amaZulu’s synthetic thatch roofing products can be almost indistinguishable from natural thatch in appearance. However, the difference in performance is stark. While natural thatch can wear and fail outdoors in a few years, some synthetic thatches come with 20-year warranties.
Types of Thatch for a Tiki Hut
As you sort through your tiki hut roof ideas, you’ll quickly discover that natural or synthetic isn’t your only consideration. There are also various types of thatch. Different thatches provide various mixes of textures and colors, so it’s worth exploring the possibilities to discover the product that provides the look that suits your vision.
- Mexican Palm Thatch
- Tahiti Thatch
- Synthetic African Reed Thatch – Subroof
- Synthetic African Reed Thatch – Layered
- Synthetic Subroof Palm Thatch
- Synthetic Palm Thatch – Layered
You’ll also find that thatches are available in different forms. Some arrive in panels. Others come in capes. Which form is the best choice for your project? Thatch is fairly adaptable, but sometimes one form may be a better fit.
Here’s our full line of Natural Thatch Products
Check out our Synthetic Thatch Products
We hope we’ve answered a few of your questions about building a tiki hut. If you’re ready to gather the materials to construct the tiki hut of your dreams, give us a call. If you need design help, our expert staff will gladly assist you. Contact amaZulu Inc. today to get started.
