TL;DR
- Roof rebedding replaces the old mortar under ridge caps to keep tiled roofs secure and watertight.
- It is different from repointing a roof, which only seals cracks without replacing the bedding.
- Signs you need rebedding include loose ridge caps, cracked or missing mortar, leaks, moss growth, or roofs older than 20 years.
- Costs in Australia range from $1,000 to $6,000 depending on roof size, tile type, and condition.
- Rebedding is usually needed every 20–25 years, with repointing touch-ups every 10–15 years.
Noticed cracked mortar under your ridge caps, leaks after heavy rain, or moss spreading along the roofline? These are common signs that your tiled roof may need rebedding. When mortar breaks down, ridge caps become loose and your roof is no longer fully sealed.
Roof rebedding fixes the problem by removing the old mortar, laying new bedding, and resetting the ridge caps so the roof stays strong and watertight. It is an essential service that prevents leaks, protects your home, and adds years to the life of your roof.
In this guide, we explain what roof rebedding involves, how it compares to repointing, the warning signs to look for, the costs in Australia, and how often the job should be done.
What Is Roof Rebedding?
Roof rebedding is the process of removing old, deteriorated mortar from beneath ridge caps and replacing it with fresh bedding mortar. The ridge caps are then reset firmly into place.
- Bedding mortar: A thick cement-and-sand mixture that provides structural support for ridge caps.
- Rebedding: Full replacement of this mortar when it has cracked, shifted, or crumbled away.
Without solid bedding, ridge caps move out of alignment. Even small gaps allow rainwater to seep under the tiles, leading to roof leaks, mould, and insulation damage.
Roof Rebedding vs Repointing: What’s the Difference?
Homeowners often confuse rebedding with repointing because both involve work on ridge caps, but they are two very different jobs. Knowing the difference helps you understand what your roof actually needs.
Roof Rebedding
Rebedding is the process of removing all of the old mortar beneath the ridge caps and laying down fresh bedding. Each ridge cap is then carefully reset into the new mortar so it sits firmly in place.
This work is necessary when the bedding has deteriorated to the point where the caps are loose, shifting, or no longer sealed properly. Without solid bedding, ridge caps can be blown off during storms or allow water to seep through, causing roof leaks and damage inside the home.
Roof Repointing
Repointing a roof is a less invasive job compared to full rebedding. Instead of replacing the bedding, a roofer applies a thin layer of flexible pointing compound over the existing mortar. This seals cracks, reinforces the ridge caps, and helps prevent water from getting in.
Repointing does not replace the bedding underneath, so it is only suitable when the original bedding is still solid and holding the ridge caps securely.
Rule of Thumb
- Ridge caps that move or wobble = rebedding required.
- Mortar intact but showing cracks = repointing is usually enough.
In many cases, roofs need both: rebedding in areas where mortar has failed completely, followed by repointing across the ridge caps to create a strong, watertight finish.
Signs Your Roof Needs Rebedding
Knowing when your roof needs rebedding is important to prevent costly repairs. In some cases, you may only need ridge capping repairs, but the signs of mortar failure often overlap.
Here are the most common issues to look out for and what they mean for your home:
Loose Ridge Caps
If the ridge caps at the top of your roof move when touched or look misaligned, the bedding mortar has failed. Loose caps can fall during storms, posing a safety risk and leaving gaps where water can enter.
Cracked or Crumbling Mortar
Mortar that shows cracks, holes, or is breaking away indicates the bedding is no longer stable. Even small cracks let in water, which gradually weakens the roof structure and causes leaks inside the home.
Missing Mortar
Empty gaps under ridge caps mean sections of bedding have completely eroded. Without support, ridge caps will eventually shift out of place, leaving your roof exposed to rain and wind.
Leaks or Water Stains Indoors
Stains on ceilings, damp patches near walls, or mould growth often point to bedding failure. Water seeping through loose ridge caps can spread into insulation and roof timbers, leading to expensive structural damage.
Moss, Lichen, or Mould Growth
Vegetation along ridge lines or bedding joints shows moisture has already penetrated the mortar. This not only weakens the bedding but also makes your roof look older and poorly maintained.
Roof Age
Bedding generally lasts 20–25 years. If your roof is older and hasn’t been serviced in that time, rebedding is likely required even if problems aren’t yet obvious.
Storm Damage
Strong winds and heavy rain can quickly loosen ridge caps or wash out already weakened mortar. After severe weather, it’s worth checking your roof for signs of movement or cracks.
If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s time to arrange a professional roof inspection. Acting early prevents leaks from spreading and helps extend the life of your roof.
The Roof Rebedding Process: Step by Step
Rebedding is a detailed job that follows a clear process to ensure your roof is secure and watertight. Here is how a professional roofer carries it out:
1. Roof Inspection
The first step is a full inspection of the ridge caps, bedding, and valleys. This helps determine whether the roof needs complete rebedding, partial rebedding, or just repointing.
2. Removing Ridge Caps
The roofer carefully lifts off each ridge cap. All of the old mortar underneath is chipped away and removed so there is a clean surface to work with.
3. Cleaning the Surface
The area is brushed and cleared of dust, broken mortar, and debris. A clean base is essential for the new bedding to bond properly.
4. Preparing New Bedding Mortar
Fresh mortar is mixed to the correct cement-to-sand ratio. Some contractors also add polymer compounds for extra strength and flexibility.
5. Rebedding Ridge Caps
A new line of bedding mortar is laid along the ridge. Each ridge cap is then set back in place, aligned carefully, and pressed firmly into the fresh mortar.
6. Applying Flexible Pointing
After the bedding has been set, a flexible pointing compound is applied over the ridge caps. This seals the joints, locks the caps in place, and helps prevent cracking in the future.
7. Final Check and Cleanup
The roofer inspects the entire ridge line to make sure the caps are straight and secure. Any leftover mortar is cleaned away, leaving the roof neat and watertight.
Most small roofs can be fully rebedded within one to two days. Larger or more complex roofs usually take between three and five days to complete.
Roof Rebedding Costs in Australia
So how much does roof rebedding actually cost? Prices vary depending on the size of your roof, the type of tiles, and whether extra repairs are required. Here’s a breakdown to give you a clearer idea of what to expect.
Average Costs
- Per ridge metre: $25 – $60
- Small single-storey roof (around 100 sqm): $1,000 – $2,500
- Medium roof (150–200 sqm): $2,500 – $4,000
- Large or two-storey roof (250+ sqm): $4,000 – $6,000+
Cost by Tile Type
- Concrete tiles: $25 – $40 per metre
- Terracotta tiles: $40 – $60 per metre (more labour-intensive and time-consuming)
Additional Costs to Consider
- Scaffolding for multi-storey or steep roofs
- Tile repairs such as replacing cracked or broken tiles
- Valley iron replacement if rusted or damaged
- Full repointing combined with rebedding for a watertight finish
Tip: Always request at least 2–3 quotes from licensed roofing contractors. Confirm whether the price includes both rebedding and repointing.
While these figures give a solid guide, your final cost will depend on the condition of your roof and local labour rates. The best way to know for sure is to book an inspection and get a detailed quote from a professional.
Benefits of Roof Rebedding
Rebedding your roof is more than just routine maintenance. It protects your home, saves money, and adds long-term value. Here are the key benefits you can expect from professional roof rebedding:
- Prevents Leaks – Seals gaps in the mortar to stop water entering and damaging your home.
- Extends Roof Lifespan – Strengthens the ridge caps so your tiled roof lasts decades longer.
- Improves Appearance – Restores a neat, uniform look to the roofline by removing cracked mortar.
- Boosts Property Value – A well-maintained roof adds to resale value and buyer confidence.
- Enhances Safety – Secures loose ridge caps that could otherwise fall during storms.
- Reduces Future Repairs – Fixing mortar now avoids costly damage to ceilings, insulation, or roof timbers.
- Protects Against Storm Damage – Fresh bedding helps the roof withstand strong winds and heavy rain.
- Supports Repointing – Creates a solid foundation for flexible pointing to keep the roof watertight.
Investing in rebedding now prevents bigger problems later. It is one of the simplest ways to keep your roof strong, safe, and looking its best for years to come.
How Often Should Roof Rebedding Be Done?
On most tiled roofs, bedding mortar will last around 20 to 25 years before it starts to crack or break away. Once the mortar begins to fail, ridge caps can loosen, leaving the roof vulnerable to leaks.
The pointing applied over the bedding generally has a shorter lifespan. Flexible pointing compounds last about 10 to 15 years before they need touch-ups to keep the ridge caps sealed and secure.
If you live in a storm-prone or coastal area, your roof may need rebedding sooner. Heavy rain, salt air, and high winds accelerate the wear and tear on mortar, reducing its lifespan.
To avoid unexpected repairs, it’s recommended to have your roof inspected every two to three years. Regular inspections help catch small issues early and can extend the time before a full rebedding job is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if my roof needs rebedding or just repointing?
If ridge caps are loose or the mortar is crumbling, you need rebedding. If the caps are solid but the mortar only has surface cracks, repointing may be enough.
2. How long does roof rebedding take?
Most small roofs can be completed in 1–2 days. Larger or complex roofs may take up to 5 days depending on weather and access.
3. Can I rebed only part of the roof?
Yes, partial rebedding is possible. However, if most of the bedding has failed, it’s usually more cost-effective to rebed the entire roof.
4. Does rebedding include repointing?
In most cases, yes. After rebedding, a flexible pointing compound is applied to lock ridge caps in place and provide a watertight seal.
Book Your Roof Rebedding With Top Glaze Today!
Have you noticed loose ridge caps, cracked mortar, or leaks after heavy rain? Top Glaze Roofing Systems provides professional roof rebedding that secures your tiled roof and keeps your home protected.
Call 1800 88 77 98 or email info@topglaze.com.au today to book your inspection and get your roof fixed by Melbourne’s trusted roofing experts.
