# Dry Ridge vs. Traditional Mortar Ridge: Which Roofing Solution is Best for Your Home?
When it comes to finishing the ridge of your roof—the peak where two sloping sides meet—you have two primary options: **dry ridge systems** or **traditional mortar-bedded ridges**. Both methods secure ridge tiles in place, but they differ significantly in installation, durability, maintenance, and cost.
In this blog post, we’ll compare dry ridge and mortar ridge systems to help you decide which is the best fit for your home.
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## **WHAT ARE DRY RIDGE SYSTEMS AND WHAT ARE TRADITIONAL MORTAR RIDGES??**
### **Dry Ridge System**
A dry ridge system uses mechanical fixings—such as screws, clips, and a flexible ridge roll—to secure ridge tiles without mortar. This modern approach enhances ventilation, reduces maintenance, and complies with British Standards (BS 5534) for wind resistance .
###**Traditional Mortar Ridges**
A traditional mortar ridge relies on a sand-and-cement mixture to bed ridge tiles in place. While it offers a classic aesthetic, it is prone to cracking and weathering over time, requiring periodic repairs .
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## **KEY DIFFERENCES – PRO’s & CON’s**
### **Dry Ridge Advantages**
✅ **Durability:** Mechanically fixed tiles resist wind uplift and extreme weather, lasting up to **50 years** with minimal maintenance .
✅ **Low Maintenance:** No cracking or erosion means fewer repairs compared to mortar .
✅ **Ventilation:** Built-in airflow prevents condensation and mold in the roof space .
✅ **Quick Installation:** No drying time—can be installed in any weather .
✅ **Compliance:** Meets **BS 5534** standards for mechanical fixing .
### **Dry Ridge Disadvantages**
❌ **Higher Upfront Cost:** Materials are more expensive than mortar, though long-term savings offset this .
❌ **Modern Aesthetic:** May not suit heritage or period homes .
### **Mortar Ridge Advantages**
✅ **Traditional Look:** Ideal for older homes and conservation areas .
✅ **Initial Cost:** Materials (sand and cement) are cheaper than dry ridge kits .
### **Mortar Ridge Disadvantages**
❌ **High Maintenance:** Prone to cracking, requiring frequent repairs .
❌ **Weather Sensitivity:** Cannot be applied in freezing or wet conditions .
❌ **Labor-Intensive:** Skilled labor needed for proper application .
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## **COSTS COMPARISON**
| **Factor** | **Dry Ridge** | **Mortar Ridge** |
|———————|————–|—————-|
| **Material Cost** | £50–£65 per metre | £2–£10 per tile |
| **Labor Cost** | Lower (quicker install) | Higher (skilled labor) |
| **Long-Term Cost** | Lower (minimal repairs) | Higher (frequent maintenance) |
While dry ridge has a higher initial cost, it often proves cheaper over time due to reduced maintenance needs .
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## **WHICH SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?**
### **CHOOSE DRY RIDGE IF**
✅ want a **low-maintenance**, long-lasting solution.
✅ area experiences **high winds or extreme weather**.
✅ prefer **modern roofing standards** (BS 5534 compliance).
### **CHOOSE TRADITIONAL MORTAR RIDGE IF**
✅ own a **listed or heritage property** where aesthetics matter legally.
✅ don’t mind **periodic maintenance** and repairs.
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## **FINAL THOUGHTS**
Dry ridge systems are the **future of roofing**, offering durability, ventilation, and compliance with modern standards. However, mortar ridges still have their place in traditional architecture.
**Need help deciding?** Consult a professional roofer to assess your home’s specific needs.
Would you like recommendations for dry ridge kits or mortar suppliers? Let us know in the comments!
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Summary
Reviewer
OSWESTRY ROOFING SERVICES LTD
Review Date
Reviewed Item
SHOULD I REPLACE MY CEMENT RIDGE TILES FOR NEW DRY RIDGES WITH PLASTIC FIXINGS
Author Rating
Product Name
dry ridge installation kits
Price
GBP 39.99
Product Availability
Available in Stock
