QA

Quick Answer: What Are Ridge Cap Shingles

Ridge cap shingles are specifically designed to fit the ridges of roofs. That’s why they are typically pre-bent and thicker than regular roof shingles, which tend to crack when folded over the ridge. The form of the ridge cap shingles also makes them more efficient in shedding water and debris.

Do you need ridge cap shingles?

A ridge cap is used to cover and close the seam where two roof slopes meet to form a ridge or roof apex. Roofs that do not have two or more decks meeting to form a ridge or hip do not require a ridge cap. Most shingle roofs have a ridge cap made of overlapping shingle tabs cut from roofing shingles.

What is the purpose of a ridge cap on a roof?

Because ridge-cap shingles cover the peak of the roof, where two angles meet, they play a critical role in keeping rain and melting snow from leaking into the house. And because ridge-cap shingles are bent over the roof, they can deteriorate quicker than the rest of the roof surface.

What does a ridge cap shingle look like?

They are often pre-bent and thicker than regular roof shingles. Ridge cap shingles resemble a single “tab” from a standard roof shingle and install by overlapping one another from one end of the ridge to the other. Most shingle manufacturers make ridge cap shingles to go with their standard shingles.

What shingles do you use for ridge cap?

Three-tab shingles are easy to cut into strips to create a ridge cap, but now roofers and homeowners largely prefer laminated shingles. Rob Davidson, Vice-President of Residential Sales for IKO Canada, explains why: “When I started with IKO over 20 years ago, three-tab shingles were the most common shingle installed.

Are ridge cap shingles different?

Ridge cap shingles are like regular shingles in that they use the same material and offer the same look in terms of color; but they are different in that they are specially designed to cover the ridges of the roof, which are high-stress areas that need more protection, unlike with metal roofing.

What’s the difference between ridge cap shingles and regular shingles?

Ridge cap shingles are specifically designed to fit the ridges of roofs. That’s why they are typically pre-bent and thicker than regular roof shingles, which tend to crack when folded over the ridge. Additionally, ridge cap shingles have more adhesion and a thicker nailing area when compared to regular shingles.

Are ridge cap vents better?

Roof ridge vents can reduce indoor air pollution levels. The only problem with this lifestyle is that the quality of your indoor air can be up to 5 times worse than the outside air. By having roof ridge vents installed on your home, you can improve the quality of your indoor air.

Can you use 3 tab shingles for ridge cap?

The ridge cap, the course of shingles on the very ridge of the roof, can be made from available 3-tab shingles. Two simple cuts create three pieces that can be used to finish the shingle project.

Is Hip and ridge the same as ridge cap?

Almost every sloped roof has a ridge at the top where two adjoining slopes meet and many roof designs include sloped ridges (known as hips) where the roof planes meet at an angle. Ridge cap is simply defined as a cover over the hip and ridge of the roof, where two adjoining slopes come together.

How long is ridge cap?

Ridge cap is typically ten feet to twelve feet in length and most roofs will be larger than twelve feet.

Which way does a ridge cap go?

Generally on a north/south orientation, the south end of the ridge would be the place to start. On an east/west orientation, the east end will be the starting point. This is the point on the roof that you will attach the first ridge cap.

How wide are ridge cap shingles?

TimberTex® Premium Ridge Cap Shingles offer excellent protection at high-stress areas of your roof (the hips and ridges). Its 12” (305 mm) wide design works with most ridge vents.

Which is better roof vents or ridge vents?

Ridge Vents vs Box Vents. Continuous ridge vents are more effective because they are installed at the peak of a roof’s ridge, allowing for warm air to escape from the attic. It also works better because it creates a vacuum in your attic.

Are ridge vents worth it?

Does my roof need a ridge vent? Yes, If you live in a hot or humid climate a roof ridge vent can lower your cooling bills and lower you attic temperature. While there are many types of roof vents available, many experts agree that ridge vents are the most efficient and cost-effective ventilation system.

Can ridge vents leak?

With proper installation and care, ridge vents should not leak. However, improper installation leads to leaky vents. In some cases, installers will use the wrong nails or shorter nails to secure the vents to the structure. Another problem that can lead to leaking roof ridge vents involves sealant.

How many feet does a bundle of ridge cap shingles cover?

Each bundle has 45 caps (15 full sheets w/ 3 caps each) and when installed at 6-2/3″ exposure, that will cover a full 25 feet.

What are high profile ridge caps?

Our specially constructed ridge cap shingles are designed to provide a high-quality alternative to using cut-up roof shingles to protect this important area. The “HP” stands for “High Profile”, which means that they’re also designed to add dimension, depth and texture to your roof line and rakes.

What is a hip and ridge shingle?

Hip and ridge shingles are the top flight or course – the finishing touch for a comprehensive roofing job. They are installed at the peak and provide a protective bridge to bring two slopes of a roof together to make your roof weather tight.