Traditionally, wet mortar has been used for securing and sealing roof ridge capping, but this practice is now being replaced in favour of dry fixed systems, new technology that delivers many benefits.
Homes throughout Europe have been enjoying the benefits of dry fixing for years and it is now becoming increasingly in demand for Australian homes.
What is a dry fixed system?
A dry fixed system is a means of securing your roof ridge without using traditional mortar. This system permanently secures roof ridges, prevents wind uplift and allows natural movement of the roof.
What’s wrong with using mortar?
Mortar is time consuming to install, has a limited lifespan and will degrade over time, cracking and falling out. It requires regular and ongoing maintenance. The most common problem experienced with this method is loose and falling cement due to wear and tear. This can leave the roof exposed and susceptible to water penetration.
What are the benefits of dry fixing?
Dry fixing installation time is less than half that of mortar, which can significantly reduce labour cost. Installation can be done in most weather conditions.
The system can allow an open ridge at the highest point of the roof, which will make it possible to create continuous ventilation, reducing temperature fluctuations. This stops the harmful build-up of condensation which provides health benefits for the home occupants and prolongs the lifespan of the roof structure. It is also more aesthetically pleasing as there is no need for whirly birds to be installed.
In summary
If you are after a quick and easy, maintenance free installation that is suited to Australian climatic conditions, provides environmental benefits, increases your roof lifespan, stops water penetration and wind uplift and allows natural roof movement, then RapidRidge Dry Fixed Roofing System is the answer.
If ventilation is what you’re after, RapidRidge with Ventilation is a fully passive and ventilated dry ridge roofing system that will lower your cooling costs by up to 43%. It’s the only ridge product available that is tested to provide both ventilation and protection from driving rain, with extensive wind tunnel testing for ventilation and testing by CSIRO for ‘Dynamic Weather Resistance’ to AS4046.9.