Ridge tiles (ca1930) - when do they need replacing?

[Spitnpolish]

Good morning - Do the experts out there think that our ridge tiles need re-mortaring? We are potentially facing quite a big bill, as several other repairs have been advised ( it's a roomy 4-bed semi, so lots of roof and big chimneys) and we wonder if this job is really necessary yet. Roofers, having completed a first repair stage, are recommending it. One can see that it's an old roof, but I used a trowel on these tiles (the only ones I cd reach) to remove moss and take a closer look. A little dust came away when I scraped, and the tile you can see from end on is slightly proud of the mortar at the top, but they feel rock solid. How dangerous is damp to 90-yr-old mortar? It dries out in summer. We do have to think of potential future buyers (within next 10 yrs?) as well as the weather.

The company is NFRC registered, which seemed to be the best guarantee we were likely to get, and we like the people.

Many thanks.

 

[Glenn586]

I'd be having a good look in your attic after the heavens have opened. If there are no leaks i'd be leaving it alone. The mortar will take in and then release moisture, it's what it does so don't worry that its damp this time of year. The shrinkage gap looks nothing to worry about either, you could always shove some putty or similar in if it's bothering you.

 

[Spitnpolish]

Thank you, Glenn. I hadn't known that mortar behaves as you describe. My instinct is to do as you say - not fix it if it ain't broke. We did have a longstanding leak along a valley, but that has been repaired!

 

[aockenden]

Yes leave it alone until you’ve confirmed there’s actually a problem with something. They’re probably just trying to upsell you.