Tile Roof Ridge Sealing in Claremont, Cape Town
Tile roof ridge sealing is one of the most effective ways to stop leaks on a tiled roof, and it is often the cheapest. We recently sealed the ridges and roof junctions on a tiled roof in Claremont, Cape Town. This is what the job involved and why it matters for your roof.
What is tile roof ridge sealing?
On a tiled roof, the ridge is the line along the top where two roof slopes meet, and it is covered by ridge tiles. The joints between those ridge tiles, and the junctions where several ridges meet, are the weak points of the roof. Over time they crack and open, and rain gets in under the tiles even though the main tiles themselves are in good condition.
Ridge sealing means repairing and waterproofing these joints so water can no longer get in. On this Claremont job, the ridge and the roof junctions were sealed with a white waterproof coating.
Why ridges and junctions leak
- Cracked bedding and pointing. The mortar that holds ridge tiles in place cracks and crumbles with sun, wind and age.
- Movement. Roofs flex slightly with heat and wind, and rigid joints split.
- Wind and salt air. In the Cape, strong wind and coastal air wear joints out sooner.
- Junctions where several ridges meet. Water collects at these spots, so they leak first.
Signs your roof ridge needs sealing
- Cracked or crumbling material along the ridge tiles.
- Ridge tiles that have shifted or are loose.
- Stains on the ceiling that appear after rain, especially below the ridge line.
- Damp patches in the roof space.
- Moss or staining along the ridge line.
Why seal the ridge instead of replacing the roof?
If the tiles themselves are sound, sealing the ridges and junctions fixes the leak at a fraction of the cost of a new roof. It also gives you a clearer picture of the roof: once the weak points are sealed, you can see whether the rest of the roof needs attention. See our roof repairs and installations and waterproofing pages.
Questions about tile roof ridge sealing
How long does ridge sealing last?
It depends on the condition of the roof and the coating used. Ridge sealing should be checked when you inspect your roof each year, ideally before the winter rain.
When is the best time to seal a roof ridge in Cape Town?
Summer, when the weather is dry and the coating can cure. Leaks show in the winter rain from May to August, so many people call then. We can inspect and quote in winter and plan the work for the dry months.
Do I need to replace my ridge tiles?
Not always. If the ridge tiles are sound and only the joints have failed, sealing is usually enough. If tiles are cracked or loose, they may need to be fixed or replaced first. An inspection shows which applies.
Can ridge sealing be combined with roof painting?
Yes. Many owners seal the ridges and then have the roof painted in the same visit. See our roof painting page.
Related reading
- Liquid rubber roof coating in West Beach, Cape Town
- Roof inspections can help you avoid expensive repairs
- Does a ceiling stain mean my roof is leaking?
Get your tiled roof checked
EcoTuffSA offers a free site inspection and a written quotation in Cape Town. Call 021 300 9899, WhatsApp 061 518 4148 or request a quote online.
