What is a saddle ridge?
A saddle ridge (Dutch: zadelvorst or omloopvorst) is a ridge tile that closes off the ridge of a tiled roof and engages on both sides with the head interlocks of the top row of hollow pantiles. It is an alternative to the ordinary half-round ridge tile and is mainly used with hollow pantiles, such as the Dutch VHV pantile.
How it works
- Saddle shape: the ridge tile sits over the ridge like a saddle and locks into the profile of the tiles on both sides.
- Fit: because it drops into the head interlocks, it follows the wavy profile of the pantiles more closely than a loose half-round ridge tile.
- Appearance: the ridge gets a calm, continuous line that flows into the tile pattern.
Application
Saddle ridges are used on pitched and gable roofs covered with hollow pantiles. Manufacturers supply them to match a specific tile model. Always use the saddle ridge designed for your tile type; ridges from other models rarely fit properly.
Fixing and maintenance tips
- Follow the manufacturer’s laying instructions: they specify how the top course must be set so that the ridge seats correctly.
- Fix mechanically: ridge tiles sit at the most wind-exposed part of the roof. Secure them with the specified ridge clips on the ridge batten.
- Ventilation: on an insulated roof, ensure adequate ridge ventilation, for example with a ventilated ridge roll as specified.
- Inspect after storms: check for displaced or cracked ridge tiles after high winds.
- Keep spares: older models are not always available; store a few spare ridge tiles.
Related terms
- Ridge tile
- Roof ridge
- Balloon ridge
- Hollow pantile
- Ridge tile clip
- Ridge roll
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