

Like any other part of your home, your roof needs some TLC. Adverse weather and aging cause roof tiles to crack and crumble. If left unchecked, you may find leaks and structural damage. Roof repointing keeps your home watertight. It protects it from the elements and actually extends your roof’s lifetime—so you don’t have to pay thousands for a new roof.
What is roof repointing?
When you repoint a roof, you refresh the outer layer of the mortar joints that hold the roof tiles and shingles to the roof structure. As the roof ages, the initial mortar degrades, mainly because of exposure to intense weather. Fissures and openings will start to appear, eventually causing water leaks and air currents that will harm your home’s structural integrity.
So…
Why do you need to repoint roof tiles?
The repointing process is an essential maintenance task. It makes your roof stronger against the elements. This prolongs its lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
Distinguishing between roof pointing and repointing
The sole distinction between roofing pointing and repointing lies in when each process is carried out.
When your roof is installed, pointing is typically carried out to ensure its stability and roof repointing is a maintenance practice that involves renewing the original pointing material.
Wondering about the roof repointing cost?
The pricing for roof repointing can vary, but a common approach is to base it on the cost per square meter. In general, most roofers charge somewhere between $120 and $170 for a standard repointing job, covering all aspects from preparation to cleanup.
The final estimate you receive may depend on factors such as the size, shape and material of your roof. Roof structures that are more intricate—such as those with steep slopes, multiple ridges or limited accessibility—may pose greater challenges and risks during work. Consequently, quotations for such roofs tend to be higher.
In older homes where cement pointing was used initially, a complete repointing and re bedding process using modern compounds might be necessary. While this could lead to increased costs overall, it is crucial for enhancing the longevity and durability of the roof.
It’s advisable to steer clear of unusually low quotes as they could indicate substandard work quality. Always ensure that the roofer providing the quote holds full licensing and insurance. Checking customer reviews and seeking referrals are reliable methods to confirm you’re engaging with a reputable roofer while minimizing potential complications.
Signs You Need to Repoint Your Roof
Unsure if it’s time to consider repairing your roof?Here are some signs that indicate your roof may require attention:
1. Loose tiles
Seeing loose tiles is one sign your roof needs repointing. Take a look at your roof. How are the tiles positioned?
if they appear to be shifting or not securely in place, it may indicate that the mortar underneath is deteriorating.
2. Cracked or missing roof tiles
Another noticeable sign that re pointing is necessary is if there are cracked or missing tiles on your roof. When you spot damaged tiles, it exposes the roof bedding and mortar to external elements, hastening wear and potentially causing more significant problems if not addressed promptly.
3. Deterioration of ridge tiles and ridge capping
The integrity of the roof relies on the condition of ridge tiles and ridge capping. If these components exhibit signs of wear, such as cracks, fractures or overall instability, it strongly indicates that re pointing is required. These areas are particularly vulnerable as they face harsh weather conditions and strong winds.
4. Gaps in the mortar
Check for any visible gaps or cracks in the cement mortar surrounding your tiles.
It’s easy to forget about checking your roof’s condition when maintaining your home. However, it’s important to watch for early signs of damage. Over time, the traditional cement mortar used in roofs can develop cracks and wear out, creating gaps that should be filled with a more flexible pointing compound. Filling with flexible compound keeps the roof sealed and sturdy.
Signs of wear in flexible pointing materials are essential to note. In modern roofing systems, these materials are preferred over traditional cement mortar because they can endure movement and temperature fluctuations. If you observe any cracking, peeling or detachment in the flexible pointing, it may be time to think about reporting.
5. Water seepage
Water seepage is another crucial indicator. If you see water stains or leaks indoors, it might imply that the mortar on your tiled roof is compromised. Water infiltration usually indicates that the roof’s pointing is no longer effective at keeping water at bay.
6. Roof Age
Considering the age of your roof is also significant. Roofs that have been around for many years are likely to have deteriorated cement mortar. Even if there are no visible signs of damage, it’s a good idea to have an older roof checked for potential repointing requirements.
Inspecting your roof
When checking your roof, make sure to focus on:
- Examining the ridge tiles and ridge capping, as they often show signs of wear earlier than other components.
- Assessing the roof bedding and any flexible pointing materials for any signs of damage.
If you’re unsure about what you see, professional roofers can conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your roof and advise you on whether repointing is required. During their assessment, they will also inspect the stability of the tiles and the state of the mortar underneath.
Enhance Your Roof’s Longevity with RapidRidge
Simply repointing roof ridge tiles is just one piece of the puzzle. There are various other factors to take into account. Such as preventing moisture buildup and regulating temperature in your roof.
RapidRidge not only prolongs the lifespan of your existing roof but also aids in ventilation through a low maintenance system that keeps your home cool and dry for years to come. Discover more about how RapidRidge can benefit your home by exploring further here.