At certain times of the year in Britain, winds speeds can reach around 60 miles an hour which can lead to ridge tiles coming loose and falling off. This is generally because the original mortar used to bed the tiles has weakened. Over time, this traditional form of bedding tends to weaken because of poor mortar mixes (bad mixture proportions), building movement, and environmental conditions such as wind and rain eroding the mortar. This weakened bed makes it easier for ridge tiles to become loose and even fall off in high winds.

Although we know what the problem is, it is hard to retrospectively reinforce the mortar behind a ridge tile. We usually recommend removing loose ridge tiles in order to repair and reinforce the mortar bed. Alternatively, you may want to consider removing all tiles, and replacing the traditional mortar bed with a maintenance-free dry ridge and hip system.