Ridge tile repairs and repointing

What are ridge tiles?

In its simplest form, the ridge of a roof is the peak where two opposing roof planes meet. Or to be more specific, the “highest point on a roof, represented by a horizontal line where two roof areas intersect, running the length of the area.” On the horizontal apex of the roof, ridge tiles are used in conjunction with either concrete tiles or slate.

What are the different types of ridge tile?

Generally, there are three styles of ridge tiles: half round, angled and ornamental. Each of which has several variants such as size, colour, fixing, joint type and material.

How are the ridge tiles fixed to the roof?

Using mortar as a weatherproof ridge tile adhesive has lasted the test of time. That said, mortar’s inability to sufficiently cope with environmental changes and its regular need for maintenance pave the way for new technical advancements.

Legislation.

The latest European Standards, state the of fixing of ridge tiles must be dry fix. BS 5534 and more recently BS 8216:2018  state that mortar should no longer be used as the only means of fixing tiles and fittings onto roof ridges, with mortar-only applications limited to certain repair jobs and heritage properties only.

Maintenance free.

Possibly easier to install, dry ridge systems, such as Marley Eternit’s Universal RidgeFast is designed to provide a totally dry fixed and weathertight ridge that is fast and simple to install. Every ridge tile is mechanically fixed eliminating the need for mortar completely. The system is suitable for use with all Marley tiles and slates and those of other manufacturers.

What is a dry fix system?

A dry fix ridge system is the method of mechanically fixing ridge tiles to the ridge of a roof without the use of mortar. In many circumstances, dry ridge systems are the perfect alternative to more traditional cement and mortar joins. Well known brands such as Marley, have produced dry ridge systems that offer excellent quality and value. A dry ridge kit is fast to install and once in place offers a firm, durable seal that’s virtually maintenance free. When it comes to a dry ridge system vs mortar, many tradesmen find the former easier to install and more economical. 

What is meant by a wet fix?

Any fixing system that claims to be “wet” is one that uses cement as the primary method to secure the roof tiles in place. While most people think that cement is a strong material that’ll last forever, the truth is often very different.

What causes tile to come away or be blown from the roof?

When a roof on a typical house is constructed, the weight of the tiles presses down onto the roof timbers and there’s some flexing and movement. Most new houses will experience between 5-30mm of movement in the roof. This usually occurs within the first few years after construction. While this is quite normal, it does have an effect on the cement which is holding the tiles in place. Cement doesn’t like movement, it often cracks or crumbles and during installation is susceptible to frost and rain.

Insurance Claim.

Needless to say, a tile like this could be blown off the roof on a windy day and  kill someone. In 2010 the NHBC (National House Builders Council) saw a 60% increase in the number of claims relating to pitched tiled roofs. Most of the claims were as a result of cement failure.

How can it be repaired?

Either through your home insurer or from your own pocket, a contractor would be best employed to fix the roof. Their superior knowledge, skill and equipment are not to be ignored when paying for this repair. Roofs are high and dangerous places, working on them should not be undertaken in jest.

Storm Damage.

On 3rd of January 2018 the Telegraph reported “Storm Eleanor, which swept across the country overnight carrying heavy rain and winds of up to 100mph, has left thousands of homes without power and caused substantial damage to property.”

Act of God?

Reporter Sophie Smith went on to say “Part of an insurer’s job will be to see whether the damage was the result of the storm or due to a lack of general upkeep, which became apparent because of the storm. Roof damage is one area where assessors will be looking for signs of poor maintenance. If ridge tiles blew off in a high wind, surveyors may look for signs that the mortar had perished.”

Is storm damage covered by house insurance?

Homeowners insurance may help cover certain causes of storm damage, including wind, hail and lightning. However, damage caused by flood and earthquakes typically is not covered by a standard home owner’s insurance policy. In other words, it’s important to read your policy to learn what types of storm damage may or may not be covered.

What is involved in a successful repair?

Repointing involves scraping away the loose mortar and replacing with new. Possibly, some homeowners will request this type of job when the mortar is loose and found in the gutter line or on then floor. For a typical semi-detached property, the cost for ridge pointing is between £120 and £250.

Working at heights.

Our repair techniques follow industry standards and best practices. We have Public Liability insurance, qualifications and experience that cover us to work up to 10 meters high. Access from either a ladder, mobile scaffold tower or MEWPs. Therefore, we can be more acurate with what we do and how we do it.

How can we help?

After reading our post, you feel like you have any questions or are in need of a reassuring chat. Please feel free to give is a call or an email and we will do our best to help.