Ridge tiles are the tiles that run along the top of your roof, forming the critical apex where two sides meet. Although they may seem like a small component of your roofing system, ridge tiles play a major role in keeping your roof watertight and structurally sound. In the UK, where weather conditions vary dramatically across the seasons, maintaining your ridge tiles is essential for preventing wind uplift, leaks, and long-term damage to your property.
Over time, ridge tiles can become loose or dislodged due to storm damage, natural ageing, or failure of the bedding mortar. In some cases, tiles may crack or shift out of place, leaving gaps that allow water and debris to enter the roof space. This can lead to internal damp, rot in the rafters, and heat loss through the roof — all of which are expensive to fix if left untreated. Regular inspection and upkeep of ridge tiles are key to avoiding these problems and ensuring your home stays protected.
Traditional ridge tiles are typically secured with sand and cement mortar. However, older mortar can deteriorate with age, especially when exposed to freeze-thaw cycles during the colder months. Signs that your ridge tiles may need attention include visible cracks in the mortar, misaligned tiles, or debris from fallen mortar in your gutters. If left too long, loose tiles can pose a safety hazard, particularly in high winds, where they may dislodge completely.
Our ridge tile maintenance services include thorough inspection, re-bedding, and repointing where necessary. We remove old, crumbling mortar and reset ridge tiles securely using high-quality materials designed to withstand UK weather. In many cases, we also recommend upgrading to a dry ridge system, which uses mechanical fixings instead of mortar. Dry ridge systems provide excellent long-term durability, better ventilation, and minimal maintenance, making them ideal for both new roofs and refurbishments.
Dry ridge systems are now a requirement under modern UK Building Regulations for new builds and many re-roofing projects, and we install both ventilated and non-ventilated dry ridge systems to suit different property types. These systems are secure, watertight, and visually tidy, while also allowing natural movement in the roof structure caused by temperature changes — something traditional mortar beds often struggle to accommodate over time.
Whether you opt for traditional re-bedding or a full dry ridge conversion, our experienced roofing team ensures all ridge tile work is carried out to the highest standard, using reliable fixings and industry-approved techniques. All work is covered by our guarantee for your peace of mind, and we’re happy to provide detailed before-and-after photos so you can see exactly what’s been done.
It’s wise to inspect your ridge tiles annually, especially after winter or following a storm. Look for signs of movement, cracked mortar, or missing tiles. If you're unsure, we offer free visual inspections with no obligation. Early intervention can prevent more extensive repairs and help extend the life of your entire roof.
If your ridge tiles haven’t been inspected in years or you suspect there’s a problem, don’t wait until water starts coming in. Contact us today for a free quotation on ridge tile maintenance, repair, or upgrade. We offer professional, affordable services designed to keep your roof safe, secure, and weatherproof all year round.