Ridge capping
Ridge capping is the mortar-bedded or dry-fixed tile or metal cover that seals the apex of a pitched roof. A common defect source at PCI on tiled roofs.
Ask Chalkline about this →Ridge capping is the row of tiles or formed metal sections that covers and seals the apex (ridge) of a pitched roof, where two roof planes meet at the top. On tiled roofs, concrete or terracotta ridge tiles are mortar-bedded onto the top courses and pointed to form a continuous waterproof seal. On metal roofs, a factory-formed metal ridge cap is screwed over the top sheet courses with sealed laps.
Hollow or cracked ridge mortar is the most common roofing defect at PCI on tiled roofs. Mortar that has de-bonded sounds hollow when tapped and will admit water at the first heavy rain. AS 2050:2018 specifies the mortar mix, bed thickness, and pointing requirements for tiled ridge cappings. In cyclonic and high-wind areas, mechanical fixings are required in addition to mortar bedding.
The same principle applies at hips (the sloping external angles of a hip roof), where hip capping covers the junction of two sloping planes.
Also known as: ridge tile, ridge cap
Category: Roofing / external envelope
Related
See also
- Flashing, the impervious strips used at junctions and penetrations in the roof
- Sarking, the membrane under tiles that works with the ridge capping system
- Batten, the horizontal members that support the tiles and set the gauge
Last updated: 2026-05-10. Verified: 2026-05-10.