Re-bedding or dry-fixing ridge tiles and verges
Ridge, Dry Ridge and Dry Verge
Ridge and verge work covers renewing the tiles or fittings along a roof's ridge line and sloped edges, known as verges, either by re-bedding them in traditional mortar or by installing a mechanically-fixed dry ridge or dry verge system that doesn't rely on mortar.
Definition
What Ridge & Verge covers
Mortar bedding at the ridge and verge is one of the most common roof maintenance issues, since it's exposed to weather and cracks, erodes or drops out over time, allowing tiles to shift or wind to get underneath them. Dry ridge and dry verge systems replace mortar with mechanically fixed clips and unions, giving a longer-lasting, lower-maintenance alternative, and are now the more commonly specified approach on re-roofs and repairs alike.
Suitable for
- Cracked, missing or eroded mortar at the ridge or verge
- Ridge tiles that have shifted, lifted or come loose in wind
- Upgrading from traditional mortar bedding to a dry-fix system for lower future maintenance
- Ridge and verge work identified during a roof survey or re-roof
Not suitable for
- Full re-roofing where the whole covering, not just the ridge and verge, needs renewal
- Structural roof timber issues at the ridge, which need assessment beyond a ridge or verge repair
Process
How the work is carried out
- 01
Survey
Inspecting existing ridge and verge condition, and agreeing repair or upgrade to a dry-fix system.
- 02
Access
Arranging ladder, tower or scaffold access appropriate to the roof height and pitch.
- 03
Works
Removing and re-bedding ridge tiles in fresh mortar, or fitting a mechanical dry ridge or dry verge system.
- 04
Completion
Checking the ridge and verge line is secure and weathertight before leaving site.
Typical timescale
Ridge or verge work on an average semi-detached house is typically completed within a day; longer roofs or full dry-fix upgrades take longer.
Cost guidance
Ridge and verge work typically costs £40–£90 per metre in our area, with a dry-fix system generally costing more upfront than mortar re-bedding but offering lower future maintenance. We provide an itemised quotation after a survey rather than a fixed headline price.
Limitations and exclusions
- Access equipment is priced separately from the ridge or verge work itself where a tower or scaffold is needed
- Underlying timber or batten condition found once tiles are lifted is priced separately as it's identified
- Exact ridge tile matching isn't always possible for older or discontinued profiles
Areas we cover
Ridge & Verge across Sussex, Surrey, Kent and South London
Local property styles, planning authorities and neighbourhood coverage for ridge & verge in each town we work in.
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FAQs
Ridge & Verge FAQs
What's the difference between mortar bedding and a dry ridge system?
Mortar bedding is the traditional method, but it's exposed to weather and typically needs attention every 10-15 years as it cracks and erodes. A dry ridge or dry verge system uses mechanical clips and unions instead of mortar, giving a longer-lasting fix with less ongoing maintenance, though it costs more to install initially.
How do I know if my ridge needs attention?
Visible cracked or missing mortar, ridge tiles that look uneven or have shifted, or debris and mortar fragments in the gutter are common signs. A survey, including drone survey where useful, confirms the extent before quoting.
Can you upgrade just the ridge to dry-fix without a full re-roof?
Yes, ridge and verge work is commonly carried out as a standalone job, independent of the rest of the roof covering, provided the tiles themselves are in reasonable condition.
Discuss your ridge & verge project
Tell us about the property and what you have in mind, and we'll arrange a site visit.
Last reviewed 2026-07-28.