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The ventilation benefits of a dry fixed roofing system

Carl Pronti

Traditionally, in roofing, ridge tiles have been affixed to roofs using cement mortar. This method, however, encounters some issues regarding durability because of its lack of ventilation, requiring regular maintenance and costing more to upkeep. A new method of fixing your tile roof, known as a dry fixed system, is the answer to ensuring that your roof is well-ventilated and long-lasting.

What is a dry fixed system?

Dry fixed roofing is the term used to describe the mechanical fixing of the roof perimeter at the ridge, hip and verge without the use of mortar and pointing. Traditional mortar bedding is still the most widely used fixing method in Australia in contrast to say Germany where 99% of roofs are mechanically fixed. However, the increased incidence of storms over the last few years has clearly highlighted the unreliability of mortar not to mention the required maintenance on the traditional wet method. It’s a wonder that dry fixing of the roof is not more popular given the multiple advantages over the traditional mortar and pointing method.

Improved ventilationDry fixed methods of roofing allow for improved ventilation compared to mortar fixed systems. This is because, at the highest point of the roof, there is an open ridge to allow for air flow. This is achieved by combining four components that ensure the tiles are not only well ventilated but are fixed securely. An eaves vent sits on top of the eaves board under the last course of tiles to allow air to circulate underneath. A weather-tight ridge flashing is then placed over the top to provide protection while still allowing the release of air. A small gap is left between the tiles to allow for the movement of air and to allow for expansion, contraction and vibration, which occur due to changes in weather.

Why do I need to ventilate my roof?

Ventilation is a vital element when it comes to the lasting power of your roof. Mortar fixing systems are prone to condensation build up, which can lead to damp, rot and mould production, causing damage to both your tiles and potentially the interior of your home. A well-ventilated roof will prevent moisture from being trapped between the tiles as it allows water vapour and air to circulate. In addition, a well-ventilated system will not degrade over time and does not require maintenance, making it more cost-effective overall.

For more information about dry fix roofing systems, learn more about our product RapidRidge or contact us at 02 9666 1069.

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Traditionally, in roofing, ridge tiles have been affixed to roofs using cement mortar. This method, however, encounters some issues regarding durability because of its lack of ventilation, requiring regular maintenance and costing more to upkeep. A new method of fixing your tile roof, known as a dry fixed system, is the answer to ensuring that your roof is well-ventilated and long-lasting.

What is a dry fixed system?

Dry fixed roofing is the term used to describe the mechanical fixing of the roof perimeter at the ridge, hip and verge without the use of mortar and pointing. Traditional mortar bedding is still the most widely used fixing method in Australia in contrast to say Germany where 99% of roofs are mechanically fixed. However, the increased incidence of storms over the last few years has clearly highlighted the unreliability of mortar not to mention the required maintenance on the traditional wet method. It’s a wonder that dry fixing of the roof is not more popular given the multiple advantages over the traditional mortar and pointing method.

Improved ventilationDry fixed methods of roofing allow for improved ventilation compared to mortar fixed systems. This is because, at the highest point of the roof, there is an open ridge to allow for air flow. This is achieved by combining four components that ensure the tiles are not only well ventilated but are fixed securely. An eaves vent sits on top of the eaves board under the last course of tiles to allow air to circulate underneath. A weather-tight ridge flashing is then placed over the top to provide protection while still allowing the release of air. A small gap is left between the tiles to allow for the movement of air and to allow for expansion, contraction and vibration, which occur due to changes in weather.

Why do I need to ventilate my roof?

Ventilation is a vital element when it comes to the lasting power of your roof. Mortar fixing systems are prone to condensation build up, which can lead to damp, rot and mould production, causing damage to both your tiles and potentially the interior of your home. A well-ventilated roof will prevent moisture from being trapped between the tiles as it allows water vapour and air to circulate. In addition, a well-ventilated system will not degrade over time and does not require maintenance, making it more cost-effective overall.

For more information about dry fix roofing systems, learn more about our product RapidRidge or contact us at 02 9666 1069.