Roof Pointing in Surrey

Roof Pointing in Surrey

Professional Roof Pointing in Surrey

Roof pointing is one of the most important parts of maintaining a strong and weatherproof roof, yet many homeowners barely notice it until something goes wrong. The pointing on a roof protects the mortar around ridge tiles, hips and other areas where tiles meet. When the mortar weakens, it can allow rainwater into the roof structure which leads to leaks, damp and long term decay.

Carrying out reliable roof pointing in Surrey is essential for keeping homes safe, dry and structurally sound. In this blog, I will break down what roof pointing is, why it weakens over time, the signs that your home needs attention, and how the repair process works. If you live in Surrey and have noticed loose mortar or shifting tiles, this guide explains everything you need to know.

What Roof Pointing Actually Does

Pointing is the material that fills the gaps between tiles, usually around the ridge line and edges of the roof. It seals these sections so that water cannot pass through. Pointing also helps keep ridge tiles fixed firmly in place during strong winds.

Older roofs often used wet mortar for this purpose. Modern roofs sometimes use a combination of mortar and mechanical fixings for improved durability. Either way, pointing plays a vital role in keeping the whole roof system stable.

When the pointing becomes cracked, soft or missing, gaps begin to form. These gaps are the entry points for wind driven rain which can reach the roof felt and rafters. Once water gets into the structure, bigger problems follow.

Why Pointing Breaks Down Over Time

There are several reasons pointing fails. Age is the most common cause. Over time, mortar becomes brittle and begins to crack. Weather is another major factor. Surrey experiences frequent rainfall along with cold spells in winter. Water enters small cracks in the mortar, freezes, and expands. This slowly pushes the mortar apart and causes more damage.

Movement of the roof can also affect pointing. Temperature changes cause tiles to expand and contract slightly throughout the year. Although this movement is small, it can loosen old mortar.

In some cases, pointing fails because the original installation was not completed correctly. Mortar that was mixed poorly or applied in the wrong conditions will not last as long as it should.

Signs You May Need Roof Pointing

Many homeowners do not look closely at their roof, so pointing problems often go unnoticed for months or even years. Here are the most common signs that pointing needs attention:

• Visible cracks along the ridge tiles
• Missing mortar between roof tiles
• Loose ridge tiles that move slightly during windy weather
• Water staining on ceilings or in the loft after rainfall
• Bits of dried mortar found in the gutters
• Moss growing in the gaps where mortar has crumbled away

If you spot any of these issues, it is worth arranging an inspection. Our roof repairs service includes full assessments to identify where pointing has failed and what repair work is needed.

The Importance of Timely Repairs

Ignoring failed pointing can lead to expensive consequences. Once cracks begin to form, water has a clear path into the roof. Moisture can damage rafters, insulation and plasterboard. After a while, dampness creates ideal conditions for mould growth.

Loose ridge tiles are another serious concern. Strong winds can lift them entirely, leaving the roof vulnerable to heavy water penetration. If a tile comes away completely, it becomes a safety risk to anyone below.

Carrying out roof pointing in Surrey as soon as problems appear protects the home from long term structural damage. A simple repair at the right time prevents costly restoration work later.

How Roof Pointing Repairs Are Carried Out

Repairing pointing is a skilled task. It must be done carefully to ensure the repaired areas blend with the existing roof and provide a strong seal. Here is a step by step look at how we usually approach roof pointing work.

Inspection and Preparation

We begin with a full inspection of the ridge line and vulnerable areas. This helps us understand the extent of the damage. Safety equipment is set up and any loose debris is carefully removed.

Removing Old Mortar

Old mortar is chipped away with care. Removing it cleanly is important because new mortar cannot adhere properly to loose or flaky surfaces. Once the joints are clear, we brush away dust and prepare them for the new pointing.

Applying Fresh Mortar

The next stage involves applying a fresh mortar mix. We work the mortar into the gaps along the ridge tiles and shape it neatly to create a smooth, solid finish. Attention to detail is essential here because a well shaped joint helps water run off the roof rather than settle.

Securing Ridge Tiles

In some cases, ridge tiles need securing with clips or additional fixings. This is often the case on modern installations where safety standards require mechanical support as well as mortar. Once secured, the new pointing seals the joins and prevents water entry.

Final Checks

We complete the work with a thorough inspection. This includes checking the alignment of the tiles, the consistency of the pointing and the surrounding areas for any signs of further issues.

How Roof Pointing Connects with Other Parts of the Roof

Pointing does not work alone. It is part of the wider roof system. If pointing has failed, other areas may also need attention. For example, a chimney that has been exposed to water for a long time may need repointing. Our chimney repairs service helps restore damaged mortar around the stack.

Where the brickwork has suffered water damage, our brickwork and repointing service ensures the structure is returned to a safe and stable condition.

If slipped tiles or loose flashings are discovered during the pointing work, we address these issues at the same time to keep the whole roof secure.

Roof Pointing in Surrey and Local Weather Conditions

Surrey’s weather plays a major role in pointing wear. Frequent rainfall and seasonal frost put pressure on mortar. Heavy wind can lift weakened ridge tiles. Homes surrounded by trees also tend to develop moss around ridge lines. Moss may not look serious at first, but it holds moisture against the mortar, speeding up decay.

During our work across towns such as Reigate, Guildford, Dorking and Epsom, we see many cases where weather has taken its toll. Regular roof checks help stay ahead of these issues. Our moss removal service also helps prevent moisture buildup that damages pointing over time.

When Repointing Is Not Enough

In some cases, pointing repair alone is not enough because the underlying roof structure has been affected. If ridge tiles have been loose for a long time, the mortar bed beneath them may be too weak to support new pointing. In these situations, we may need to remove the ridge tiles and rebuild the mortar bed entirely.

Occasionally, widespread pointing failure is a sign that the roof is reaching the end of its natural life. When we come across this, we discuss replacement options through our new roofs service. This only happens when the roof structure is too worn to benefit from repairs alone.

Maintenance Tips to Protect Your Roof Pointing

There are several simple steps that help keep roof pointing in good condition:

• Remove moss regularly
• Check the ridge line after storms
• Look for signs of movement or cracking
• Keep gutters clear so water flows properly
• Inspect the loft for dampness

If you are unsure about the condition of your pointing, it is always best to have a professional take a look. Early attention saves money.

Why Choose Us for Roof Pointing in Surrey

We have repaired, repointed and restored many roofs across Surrey over the years. Each property is different, and our experience allows us to recommend the right approach for every situation. We work with care, precision and a commitment to long lasting solutions rather than temporary fixes.

We are proud to be listed on Checkatrade, where homeowners can read genuine reviews of our work and service.

Conclusion

Reliable roof pointing in Surrey is essential for protecting your home from leaks, structural issues and long term water damage. When mortar begins to fail, the roof becomes vulnerable, but timely repairs restore strength and prevent bigger problems.

If you have noticed cracked mortar, loose ridge tiles or signs of damp, you can contact us here for an inspection. We provide professional roof pointing services across Surrey, South London and Sussex, always focusing on safe, effective and long lasting results.