Combing ridge

nounStandard termBuilding

A topmost course of roofing slates or tiles that projects above the peak of the roof.

A specialized roof finishing technique where the final row of slates on one side of a gable extends upward past the ridge line. This projecting edge shields the joint from prevailing winds and rain, directing water down the opposite slope without the need for a separate metal or ceramic ridge cap.

Heard on the job

The architect specified a traditional combing ridge to keep the slate roof looking historically accurate without copper caps.