Ridge tiles are a very small percentage of the surface area of your roof, so whilst they may look unsightly from the ground or when on an extended ladder, it’s easy to overlook them as being a problem because most probably they will not be leaking immediately. However, they can also be a danger when it means the roof is moving as a whole or if the tile (or the pointing) will fall out.
The ridge tiles are used to cover the union of two slopes in a roof. Then the bedding mortar underneath starts to deteriorate when they crack, and water enters. In time, this can lead to ridge tiles working loose and a serious hazard in high winds. Mortar bits tumbling from a height are dangerous if they fall over your driveway, path or entrance.
Windblown rain can enter the ridge line where it leaks through. You may recognise damp patches in the loft with a musty aroma, or water staining close to the centre of the roof. During the winter, water that pools in those cracks can freeze and expand to break your roofing even more. For Roofers Gosport, contact https://www.randsroofing.co.uk/roofing-services/roofers-gosport/
What makes ridge tiles crack – Ageing mortar, freeze-thaw cycles and storm damage all encourage the roof to move over time. In some cases, the tile is ok, and it’s just that the mortar has deteriorated and the ridge is lifting.
You should arrange for an inspection if you see cracking from the ground. The roofer will be able to determine if it is re-bedding only, a standard repoint or an upgrade of the ridging system. The sooner you address it, the less risk you incur, and generally speaking, for a far more reasonable cost.
