Dry Ridge Systems vs Traditional Mortar Bedding: Which Does Your Roof Need?
Ridge tiles are a key part of a roof. These are specialised roof tiles, which sit along the top of the roof. These are designed to cover and seal the point where the two sloped sides meet.
Generally speaking, when it comes to securing ridge tiles in place on a roof, there are two main options to choose from.
Homeowners can opt for either traditional mortar bedding or a modern dry ridge system.
While dry ridge systems use mechanical fixings and clips, mortar bedding uses a sand-and-cement mix.
Both options will successfully fix and hold ridge tiles in place, but each offer their own specific strengths.
In this article, our roofing experts have outlined the pros and cons of each system, to help you identify the best match for your property.
Why choose a dry ridge system?
In recent years, dry ridge systems have become an increasingly popular choice.
They are a modern solution, which offers improved resilience against changing weather conditions. They also require less ongoing maintenance than traditional mortar bedding.
This is all because dry ridge systems utilise a mechanical fixing method.
So, while mortar can crack, loosen and crumble over time (due to wind and rain exposure, and temperature fluctuations), mechanical fixings are more secure, with greater durability and weather resistance.
Another benefit of dry ridge systems is that they can help improve roof ventilation. They are designed to allow air to circulate beneath the ridge. This can help to reduce the risk of condensation, damp and other issues caused by restricted airflow.
It’s for these reasons that B&S increasingly installs dry ridge stems, as standard.
How about traditional mortar bedding?
However, that’s not to say that classic mortal bedding doesn’t still have its place.
Mortar bedding is still commonly used in older properties, particularly listed and heritage properties.
This approach allows property owners to maintain the property’s aesthetic.
Or in some cases – if listed building restrictions apply – it may be a requirement for the property owner to use traditional materials and techniques, in order to preserve the building’s original character.
So, in these situations, mortar bedding can still be the appropriate choice.
It’s also important to understand that mechanical fixing requirements aren’t limited to dry-fix systems.
Understanding BS 5534
The British Standard BS 5534 establishes UK requirements for the fixing of pitched roof coverings. This includes the fixing of ridge and hip tiles.
So, even if a roof uses traditional mortar bedding, these requirements dictate that it may still require mechanical fixings (in addition to the mortar).
The precise conditions that these requirements apply are dependent on the roof design, location and exposure to wind (among other factors).
So, if your mortar is starting to fail, then simply replacing it with fresh mortar may not be a suitable option. If you’re unsure whether these regulations apply to your property, speak to a roofing maintenance specialist – like B&S Roofing – and they’ll be able to advise you.
Signs your mortar ridge is starting to fail
If you have traditional mortar bedding securing your ridge tiles, then it’s worth keeping an eye out for any signs of failure.
The most common signs include:
- Mortar becoming loose, powdery or crumbling
- Cracks appearing in the mortar, along the ridge
- Gaps developing under the ridge tiles
- Pieces of mortar or debris falling from the roof
- The ridge tiles appearing loose or having moved out of their previous position
To avoid these symptoms escalating into a bigger problem, we’d recommend arranging to get a ridge inspection, as part of your wider roof check.
If you’re concerned about the condition of your ridge tiles, having them inspected can identify problems before they become more extensive.
At B&S Roofing, we offer professional roof inspection and repair services, to give you complete peace of mind. We can also offer expert guidance on which ridge system would present the best solution for your property. To find out more, don’t hesitate to get in touch.