Dry Verge Systems › St Mellons › Guide
Often it can. A dry verge does not need a whole new roof, and we regularly replace failed mortar verges on roofs that are otherwise sound. What decides it is the tile profile, the state of the roof edge and whether the roof is failing elsewhere. We check these on site before we say yes or no.
What is being replaced
On an existing roof, the verge is the strip of tile ends and mortar along a gable. Mortar bedding cracks and falls away with wind and frost. A dry verge replaces it with mechanically fixed verge units and tile ends, with no wet mortar. It is a common repair on gable-ended houses in Old St Mellons and Pontprennau, where the edges are exposed.
Does it suit your tiles
Compatibility depends on the tile profile. Most dry verge units are made for particular tile types, and the system must be fixed to the tile maker's guidance. Concrete interlocking tiles, common on the estates around Rumney and Trowbridge, generally have a matching system. We measure and identify the tile on site and tell you whether a dry verge fits.
What we check first
Before we fit anything we look at the battens along the edge, the tile ends and the bargeboard or fascia below. If the timber is rotten or tiles are loose beyond the verge, those need attention first. A dry verge is not a cure for a roof that is failing elsewhere, and we say so plainly.
- Condition of the battens and rafters at the edge
- Whether the tile ends are sound or cracked
- Bargeboards and fascia below the verge
- Tile type and whether a matching unit exists
How the work is done
The old mortar and any loose tile ends are stripped back. We then fix the verge units and new tile ends mechanically along the edge, with the fixings set to the maker's guidance. There is no mortar to dry or crack. It is usually a tidy job, with debris cleared from the gutter and path afterwards.
- Strip back failed mortar and loose ends
- Fit units and end tiles with mechanical fixings
- Check the junction with the ridge and eaves
- Clear all debris from gutters and paths
Planning and next steps
A dry verge may need planning or Building Regulations checks, and we advise before work starts. Check from the ground for crumbs of mortar on the path, gaps at the roof edge or birds going in. Please do not go up to look. Call us for a proper look and we will explain what suits your roof.
Need dry verge systems in St Mellons? See our dry verge systems in St Mellons page, or call 07766 547309.
More Guides for St Mellons
Common Questions
Do I need a full re-roof to get a dry verge?
No. A dry verge can be fitted as a repair where mortar has failed, provided the tiles and battens at the edge are sound and a matching unit exists. A full re-roof is only needed if the roof is failing elsewhere.
How can I tell my verge needs replacing?
Look from the ground for crumbs of mortar on paths or in the gutter, cracks along the gable edge, gaps where birds can get in, or tile ends that look out of line. Then call us for a proper look.
Will a dry verge look different from my current one?
Slightly. The units are shaped rather than bedded in mortar, so the edge looks neat and uniform. We choose a colour and profile to suit your tiles, and explain how it will look before we start.
Get a Quote in St Mellons
Tell us what the roof is doing in St Mellons and we will look at it. Call 07766 547309, message us on WhatsApp or use the form below.