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Hip Roof

Slopes on all four sides — more stable in high winds

A hip roof has slopes on all four sides, meeting at a ridge or a point. Because there are no vertical gable ends, it's more stable in strong winds — which is why it's common in exposed or coastal parts of the UK.

Common Damage

1. Tile or Slate Damage

  • Cracked, slipped, or missing tiles
  • Caused by wind, frost, or ageing
  • Can quickly lead to leaks

2. Hip Ridge Issues

  • The angled ridges have special tiles
  • Mortar can crack or erode over time
  • Tiles may become loose or fall off

3. Valley Problems

  • Where two roof slopes meet, a valley forms
  • Debris buildup blocks water flow
  • Valley lining can wear or crack

4. Roof Leaks

  • Often start at hip edges, flashing, or ridge line

5. Structural Movement

  • Settlement or ageing can cause shifting

6. Timber Rot

  • Moisture entering the roof can rot rafters and battens

7. Flashing Failure

  • Lead flashing can split or lift
  • Common around chimneys and joints

Repairs

minor Repairs

  • Replace broken or slipped tiles
  • Repoint hip and ridge tiles
  • Clear and repair valleys
  • Fix flashing

moderate Repairs

  • Replace sections of underfelt or battens
  • Repair valley linings (lead or fibreglass)
  • Fix small structural timber issues

major Repairs

  • Replace large sections of tiles
  • Repair sagging roof areas
  • Replace damaged rafters or trusses

New Installation

When Replacement Is Needed

  • Roof is very old (10–15+ years depending on materials)
  • Widespread leaks or recurring problems
  • Structural damage or sagging
  • Major renovation or extension

Installation Steps

  1. Strip the Old Roof

    • Remove tiles, battens, and felt
  2. Inspect & Repair Structure

    • Check rafters and joists
    • Replace any rotten or weak timber
  3. Build the Frame

    • Install rafters and hip rafters (diagonal supports)
    • Fit ridge board
  4. Add Layers

    • Breathable membrane (waterproof layer)
    • Battens fixed across rafters
    • Insulation (if upgrading energy efficiency)
  5. Install Roof Covering

    • Tiles, slate, or other materials
    • Special hip tiles fitted along edges
  6. Finish Details

    • Ridge and hip systems (modern dry systems often used)
    • Flashing installed around chimneys and joints
    • Gutters and drainage connected

Lifespan

Tiles / Slate
30–50 years
Membrane
10–20 years
Structure
100 years if kept dry

Warning Signs

  • Water leaks or damp patches
  • Loose or missing hip tiles
  • Sagging or uneven roof lines
  • Debris buildup in valleys
  • Daylight visible in loft

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