Ridge tiles, re-bedding and dry ridge systems

Loose or lifting ridge and hip tiles re-bedded in mortar, or converted to a mechanically fixed dry ridge.

In short

Ridge tiles were traditionally bedded on mortar, and mortar eventually cracks, lets go and drops tiles. A dry ridge system fixes each tile mechanically instead, with a ventilated roll underneath, so it does not rely on mortar at all. Re-bedding is the like for like repair; dry ridge is the one that stops the problem coming back.

Signs you need ridge tiles

  • Mortar visibly cracked or missing along the line of the ridge
  • A ridge tile sitting proud, rocking or noticeably out of line
  • Lumps of mortar in the gutter or on the ground after wind
  • Ridge tiles that move when they are touched
  • Damp along the top of an upstairs ceiling near the ridge line
  • Birds getting in where a hip or ridge tile has lifted

What the job involves

Check the full run

Ridge and hips both, end to end. A single loose tile usually means the mortar has gone along a good stretch of it.

Lift and clean off

Tiles come up and the old mortar is cleaned off them and off the ridge board so the new work has something sound to sit on.

Re-bed or dry fix

Re-bedded on fresh mortar where that suits the roof, or converted to a dry ridge system with a ventilated roll and mechanical fixings where you want it dealt with for good.

Point and finish

Joints pointed up neatly and the line checked along its length so the ridge sits straight when you look up at it.

Clear the gutters

Old mortar has usually been dropping into them for years, so we clear what has collected before we go.

Want someone to take a look?

Free quote, no obligation, and a straight answer on whether the work is actually needed.

Ridge Tiles near you

We cover Derby, Nottingham, Burton upon Trent and the towns around them.

Frequently asked questions

What is a dry ridge system?

Ridge tiles fixed with screws and clips onto a ventilated roll rather than bedded on mortar. There is no mortar to crack, and it ventilates the roof space at the same time.

Is dry ridge worth the extra?

On most roofs, yes. Mortar bedding is the thing that comes loose and needs doing again. Dry ridge is fitted once. New build has largely moved to it for that reason.

Can you just re-bed the one loose tile?

We can, but if the mortar has failed at one point it is usually going at others. We will tell you honestly whether it is a spot repair or a full run.

Do I need scaffolding for ridge work?

For a full ridge run, usually yes. Access has to be safe along the whole length rather than just at one point.

Will new ridge tiles match my roof?

We reuse the existing ridge tiles wherever they are sound, which keeps the match exact. Where they have broken we match as closely as the range allows.

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