· Absolute Roofing 247
The ridge is the line of tiles along the very top of your roof. Hips are the sloping lines where two roof slopes meet on the corners of a hipped roof. Because they sit on the highest and most exposed parts of the house, ridge and hip tiles take the full force of the wind and rain. When they work loose, they can let water into the roof and, in the worst cases, fall. Here is what homeowners in Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire should know.
Why ridge and hip tiles work loose
Ridge and hip tiles have to be held firmly in place along the top of the roof. Over many years of weather, the fixings and bedding that hold them can wear, crack and come away. Once that happens, wind can lift the tiles, and rain can get in through the gaps underneath. It usually starts small, which is why it is easy to miss from the ground.
Signs to look out for
You do not need to go up a ladder to spot most problems. From the ground, or from an upstairs window across the street, look for:
- ridge or hip tiles that look out of line or uneven
- gaps along the top of the roof
- bits of broken tile or crumbled material in the gutter, on the path or in the garden
- damp patches on bedroom ceilings near the top of the house, or in the loft
If you notice any of these, it is worth getting the roof looked at before winter weather makes things worse.
Stay safe: leave the roof to a roofer
Please do not climb onto the roof yourself. Ridge tiles are at the highest point, and the slopes either side are steep and can be slippery. A loose tile can also come away in your hand. If a tile has already fallen, keep people away from the area below until it has been made safe.
How we fix ridge and hip tiles
When we come out, we check the ridge and hips along their full length, not just the tile you noticed. Our roofers then re-fix loose ridge and hip tiles and replace any that are cracked or broken. While we are up there, we also look at the tiles, slates, chimney and lead flashing nearby, so you know the overall condition of your roof. Where it helps, a drone survey can show you the top of the roof without anyone climbing on it.
When a repair is not enough
If the rest of the roof is also in poor shape, patching the ridge again may not be good value. In that case we will tell you honestly and quote for a new slate or tiled roof instead.
Emergency help, 24/7
If ridge tiles have come off in a storm and water is getting in, we offer 24/7 emergency roofing across Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire and the surrounding areas. Call free on 0800 046 1159.
Free quotes
Every quote is free, and there is no payment until the job is complete. Call free on 0800 046 1159 or request a free roofing quote.
See our roofing services, photos of our work and the areas we cover.
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