Ridge tile repointing

Repointing is not the same as re-bedding

Repointing means raking out and renewing the visible mortar joint. It works only where the bed underneath the ridge tile is still holding. If the tile rocks when it is touched, pointing over the top of a failed bed is cosmetic and will crack again within a season or two.

Re-bedding means lifting each ridge tile, cleaning off the old mortar, and bedding it back down on a fresh mix. It costs more, takes longer, and it is the honest answer when the bed has gone.

Where dry-fix makes sense

Dry-fix ridge systems hold each tile mechanically with a screwed clip onto a batten, with a ventilated roll sealing the junction. There is no mortar to crack, they meet current fixing requirements for new work, and they ventilate the ridge, which helps with condensation in the roof space.

They are the default on a re-roof. On a period property where the mortar bed is part of the look, or on a listed building, a traditional bedded ridge with the right mix is often the appropriate choice and we will say so.

Hips and verges have the same problem

Everything true of the ridge applies to hips running down the corners of the roof and to mortar verges at the gable. Verges are the most wind-exposed detail on the building and mortar there fails early, which is why dry verge systems are so common on modern work.

• Cracked hip mortar with tiles beginning to slide
• Missing hip iron at the bottom of the hip line
• Mortar verges crumbling on the prevailing-wind gable
• Ventilated ridge roll fitted at the same time where useful

Doing it once

Ridge, hip and verge work all need the same access. If the ridge needs re-bedding and the verge is crumbling, doing both in one visit saves a second set of access costs. We look along the whole line while we are up there and quote for what is actually there rather than only the bit visible from the pavement.

Arrange ridge repairs without climbing onto the roof

Loose ridge tiles are an access and safety problem as well as a weatherproofing fault. If pieces of mortar have fallen or the ridge line has changed after wind, record what you can see from the ground and keep clear of the area below. Do not try to test a tile by climbing a ladder or walking on the covering.

When requesting ridge tile repointing, explain whether the concern is one joint, several gaps or a tile that has moved. The distinction affects what the roofer needs to examine, but the final decision depends on the bedding and fixings. A photograph can locate the concern; it cannot confirm that a new pointing joint will hold a loose tile.

Compare the whole ridge repair scope

Ridge tiles close the meeting point between roof slopes. Their bedding or mechanical fixings keep that exposed line secure, while a ventilated dry ridge system also contributes to airflow. Choosing between methods therefore involves the roof construction and appearance, not only the visible strip of mortar.

Ask whether the quotation covers lifting and cleaning, replacement of damaged units, fresh bedding or the components of a dry ridge system. Include nearby hips and verges in the inspection where they show related defects. Ridge tiles cost is only one part of the job: access and the extent of renewal also matter. Use the roof repairs service to arrange assessment of the complete fault rather than requesting cosmetic pointing before the bed has been checked.

Common questions