Signs of a ridge problem
A displaced ridge tile, gaps in bedding or fresh mortar debris can indicate a problem at the top of the roof. Observe from the ground and keep clear if components appear unstable. Similar details may run down the hips of some roofs.
What the assessment should check
Assessment should cover the tiles, bedding, mechanical fixings and adjacent coverings. Where ventilation forms part of the roof design, the ridge detail must work with it. Simply covering a visible crack does not establish that the underlying fixing is sound.
Repair or renew the ridge system
The scope may involve local work, rebedding suitable components or renewing the ridge system. Mechanically fixed systems have their own compatibility requirements. Discuss the actual roof and tile profile rather than assuming one approach suits every pitched roof.
Access and repair planning
Roof height, slope, access and the extent of loose components affect the work. A useful quotation explains what will be retained, replaced and secured, and whether any neighbouring hip details or coverings are included.
Choose the next step
Describe the visible fault, whether material has fallen and the length of roof affected if you can judge it safely. Mention recent storms and earlier ridge repairs so the assessment can consider a recurring problem.
Your questions, answered.
Can cracked mortar be patched without lifting ridge tiles?+
A surface patch may leave defective bedding or fixings beneath. The stability of the existing detail should be assessed first.
How does a dry ridge system differ from mortar bedding?+
A dry ridge system uses compatible mechanically fixed components rather than relying on mortar bedding alone; suitability depends on the roof.
Should nearby hip tiles be checked at the same time?+
It is sensible to assess related details, particularly when they show similar deterioration, but they should be specified separately if work is required.
