It may seem like the roof ridge is just one of many architectural details, but there are reasons why it needs to be dealt with properly. So, what is a roof ridge?
What is a Roof Ridge: 3 Things to Know
It is pretty obvious that in day to day life, homeowners tend to overlook roof construction. This usually continues until something goes wrong and an issue arises with your roofing system. To avoid this, let’s cover some ridge cap details every homeowner should know about.
Understanding the ridge of a roof is crucial for any roofing project. It’s all about the fact that the ridge having to bear the brunt of harsh weather. And on how it copes with its task, depends on the strength of the entire roof structure.
So, here is a brief summary of what a roof ridge is:
- A roof ridge is the highest point of a roof, where two slopes meet and form a peak
- It is a horizontal line that runs along the entire roof or may be interrupted in complex shapes
- Also, roofs of complex construction can have multiple ridges
However, multiple ridges should not be confused with roof hips. A hip is also the joining of two roof planes, but pointing downward rather than horizontal. Accordingly, the hip cap covers and shapes an exterior vertical angle of the roof.
#1 Roofing Materials
There are two most common roof coverings, metal roof panels and composition shingles. Check out the post on what is a composition roof if you are in doubt about your roofing material. Despite the difference in materials, almost all roofs have ridge capping.
Home roof ridge caps are parts for roof construction that cover the joint between the roof slopes. A ridge cap can prevent damaging moisture from entering your home while allowing airflow to ventilate your attic.
At the line where two roof slopes meet, there is always a natural space or gap that must be carefully sealed against debris and moisture intrusion. Ridge caps can be made of various materials, including asphalt, metal, and plastic. Ridge caps also have an aesthetic function, giving the roof deck a finished look.
Asphalt shingles
Composite and asphalt ridge caps are the most popular choice due to their affordability and longevity. They are made from the same shingles as the rest of the roof, providing a seamless look and reliable protection.
Ridge cap shingles are thicker than regular shingles. Regular shingles can crack when folded at the ridge, so ridge shingles are supplied pre-bent.
Besides ridge capping, hip caps are also available. Individual manufacturers make specialized shingles for roof valleys to reliably resist water flow.
Metal roofing
Metal ridge caps are designed to cover the highest point of the roof where two different roof sections meet. Just as with shingles, a ridge cap for metal roofing is matched in style and color with the rest of the roof.
Installing a metal ridge cap is the final part of the job. It is mounted last, when all other metal panels are in place. Your ridge cap must overlap the rest of the roofing material to avoid leaks.
In addition to ridge capping, metal roofing systems also have closure strips in their construction. In turn, the closure materials can be solid or ventilated. And here we have the next important point to deal with – ridge vents.
#2 Roof Ridge Ventilation
A ridge vent is a popular type of vent installed in the ridge of a roof. Made most often of plastic, a ridge vent is built into the ridge and runs the entire length of the roof peak. With some differences in design, ridge capping vents are applicable to both tile roofs and metal panel roofs.
To block damaging moisture, ridge vents are made as an upside-down V that allows gravity to guide water down your roofing system. Installed properly, a ridge vent will protect your home from mold in the summer and frost in the winter. Just in case look up how to get rid of mold in attic to get a powerful motivation to do sensible venting.
Natural attic venting through ridge cap
Now here’s the thought: top roof vents allow excess moisture and hot air to be vented out of an attic space. All you need to do to get an active ventilation system in your attic is to provide a supply of fresh air to the bottom of your attic.
Since warm air flow always tends to rush upward, ridge vent works purely by natural physics, without the use of electricity. While energy efficiency is something to consider in your roof replacement project, isn’t it?
#3 Roof Leaks
Roof leaks can occur due to roof installation errors, worn shingles, severe weather damage, cracked or curled shingles, or natural wear and tear. Even walking on your roof too frequently and stepping on fragile parts can create roof leaks.
Since the roof ridge cap is more susceptible to damage than the rest of the roof, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Pick ridge cap shingles with a thicker nailing area.
- For metal panels, use sealants for your climate zone to avoid leaving seams exposed.
- Realize that the ridge cap may need replacement sooner than the rest of the roof.
To prevent ridge leaks
The easiest way to protect against leaks is during a new roof installation. Modern technology allows you to watch the installers from a drone camera, forcing them to do their job thoroughly. Also, aerial shots can be used for proper maintenance inspections instead of walking on the roof.
A roof leak starts small, but can lead to costly repairs in the end if not addressed in a timely manner. So don’t neglect regular inspections of your attic from the inside and roofing from the outside.
FAQs
What is the ridge on a roof?
The ridge is the highest line of the roof. It is where the two slopes of the roof meet and join to form the peak at the top of the roof. To keep the joint tight and avoid roof leaks, a ridge cap is used.
How important is the ridge of a roof?
First, the ridge is designed to protect your home from moisture intrusion, giving reliability to the entire roof system, whether it’s metal panels or shingles. Second, ridge ventilation helps keep your attic dry in all seasons. Thirdly, the ridge cap gives the roof a finished and harmonious look. So, proper roof ridge cap installation is really important.
What is the purpose of the ridge?
The roof ridge itself has no purpose, as it is simply the top line of the roof. However, the ridge cap has the purpose to address the roof leak issue. In addition, metal or tile caps act as attic ventilation and also give the roof an attractive and finished look.
What is the difference between a roof hip and ridge?
A roof hip is the line along which two roof edges join to form an outside vertical angle, while ridges are always horizontal and create the highest point of the roof. In short, ridges are horizontal, hips are angled from top to bottom.
Conclusion and Next Steps
A roof ridge is a critical component of your roof system, and understanding its importance is crucial for any roofing project. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent roof leaks and extend the life of your roof.
If you suspect a problem with your roof ridge, contact a professional roofing contractor to assess and repair or replace it. Don’t overlook the importance of a well-maintained roof ridge in protecting your home and investment.
