For most modern tiled roofs, a dry ridge system is better than mortar. It is mechanically fixed, does not crack or wash out, ventilates the roof, and needs almost no maintenance. Traditional mortar still suits some period and conservation roofs, but under BS 5534 ridge tiles must now be mechanically fixed either way.
What is a dry ridge system?
A dry ridge system secures ridge and hip tiles with screws, clips and a flexible, breathable roll along the apex instead of a bed of mortar. Each tile is individually fixed to a ridge batten.
Why does mortar ridge fail?
Mortar is rigid. Roofs move with temperature and wind, and frost gets into tiny cracks. Over time the bedding cracks, falls out and the tiles loosen. On exposed coastal roofs like those across East Kent this happens faster.
Dry ridge vs mortar at a glance
- Durability: dry ridge is not affected by frost or movement. Mortar weathers over time.
- Maintenance: dry ridge needs virtually none. Mortar needs repointing periodically.
- Ventilation: dry ridge ventilates the roof space. Mortar does not.
- Appearance: mortar has a traditional look. Dry ridge is neat and uniform.
- Regulations: BS 5534 requires mechanical fixing for both.
Can my existing ridge be converted to dry ridge?
Usually, yes. We lift the existing tiles, clean off the old mortar, fit a ridge batten and dry ridge system, and refix your original tiles. Damaged tiles are replaced with matching ones.