Two layers under every cap
The ridge and hip caps along the top and edges of a tiled roof sit on a bed of mortar, called the bedding. Over the bedding is the pointing, a finishing layer that seals the joint and gives the line its clean edge.
The pointing is what you see from the ground, and it is the part that weathers first.
Repointing
Repointing renews the top layer. The old, cracked pointing is cleaned back and fresh pointing goes on over bedding that is still sound.
It suits roofs where the caps are firm and the bedding underneath is holding together.
Rebedding
Rebedding goes a layer deeper. The caps are lifted, the old bedding comes off, and the caps are laid back on fresh bedding before they are pointed.
It is needed when the bedding has cracked or crumbled, or the caps have come loose.
Signs worth mentioning when you call
- Cracked, patchy or missing pointing along the ridge or hips.
- Gaps showing under the caps.
- Caps that look out of line or have moved.
- Pieces of mortar in the gutters or on the ground.
- Stains on the ceiling near the top of the roof.
Which repair a roof needs depends on what is found once the caps are looked at up close.
Updated . General information about tiled roofs, not advice about a particular roof.
